Thoughts and fears on a med change

Hi, I'm new to this site. In fact just found it yesterday. I'm bipolar II (along with several other diagnoses.) Have been treated with Lithium 1200 mg (+ Paxil, Lamictal, Seroquel and Atavan.) Today I will see my pdoc who has been saying for several months that we need to begin making changes. She wants to increase the Lamictal and begin decreasing Lithium ... less side effects.

I have to admit I am quite apprehensive about any med changes. It's been four going on five years since someone was able to tell me that there is something chemically wrong with me and not just a matter of well, me being me. The past year and a half have been hell with med changes and I'm so afraid that this whole crazy depression cycle will start again. I can't put this off any longer, I'd really love to be on a med that does not have the side effects that the Lithium does ... but at what cost? Unforunately, I am one of those people (I don't know, am I in the minority on this one) who thinks if I just suffer thru the initial problems with a new drug/dosage it will work itself out ... can't begin to admit how many times I was wrong with that one!

Well, anyway I guess this message certainly does not contain a question. Just random thoughts and fears ... just under two hours now before the appointment. Maybe I am just psych-ing my self out?

- BTinCT

First, WELCOME to PC!!!!
I think whenever there is a change in meds, at least for me, I become very apprehensive. I think how your feeling is normal. We get so use to a regimen that too us feels "functional" My meds have been changed several times and I foresee it happening off and on while I go through my therapy. I think the fact you "stick it out" when you have some of the SE's when starting something new is great because it is so easy to say, forget this, I feel worse. Sounds like you have been on the same meds for a while and maybe you are so used to them at this point they may not be as effective?
HUGS
Cher

Maybe, your pdoc will gradually get you off Lithium and just use the Lamictal in time? I've been on Lamictal for a few years now (I am DXed with Bipolar-II/mild) and have found it to be very good. Before that I had been on Lithium (my brother has been on 33yrs now, and no problems) but I needed something with an antidepressant quality, so my pdoc suggested I give the Lamictal a try, in fact I'm down to 150mg's a day now. I like Lithium so much better than Depakote, Lithium allowed me to function and not be drowsy.
I think many of us with DXes sometimes have to go through trying different meds. in order to get the right fit, don't discourage, it will happen.
One thing though, if you are not satisfied with treatment and the pdoc, a change to a new pdoc can be key.
I wish you lots of luck and healing, welcome to PC.
Take care,
DE