Quote:
Originally Posted by bpcyclist
Just had pdoc visit. We are going to try to up the AP for a few days, then, if that doesn't work, will have to add a stimulant, I guess. We shall see.
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I'm confused and concerned about you. Why would your pdoc add a stimulant if the AP increase doesn't work? You say, in your words, that you're always very psychotic, so wouldn't a stimulant be counterintuitive? Also, I'm surprised your pdoc is saying, "well, we'll try a stimulant if this antipsychotic doesn't work in a few days." While antipsychotics can take a matter of hours or days to kick in, they typically take more than a few days. (See here:
The “delayed onset” of antipsychotic action — an idea whose time has come and gone)
I think you need a new pdoc if he's not telling you to wait
at least one week. As a doctor, you know that's wrong, especially since APs are likely
not an effective way to treat bipolar depression for more than 6 months:
Antipsychotic Treatment for Bipolar Disorder Not Always Effective After Six Months | Brain & Behavior Research Foundation
I'm not trying to come across as an @ss, but I think your pdoc's plan is not something that a psychiatrist would typically recommend for someone who is very psychotic all the time. Most research studies (especially those coming from the NIH, NHS, etc.) suggest using a mood stabilizer to help with depression. If mood stabilizers don't help, then an antipsychotic combined with an antidepressant is recommended. It's clearly stated
here (WebMD)and
here (Harvard University).