How long, in real life, for Lamictal to kick in and Risperdal ?

How long does it take for Lamictal to kick in for controlling mania? I know the standard lit. says 2 to 4 weeks, but I was hoping someone could relate their actual real life experience with how long it took to notice a difference.

Also, is there a long-acting or IM version of Risperdal? A form of it you don't have to take everyday?

Thanks...

jonB, I wish I could help you, but since my "against meds" started I have no idea what works best.
Anyway, i hope you can find some answers~!

Hi Biplol -
Yep, I'm still opting against meds too, but everyone around me is pushing me against it. I'm not taking anything right now. They tell me I should start Lamictal ASAP and it will have no side effects...I remember Risperdal worked well for me long ago, but I'm bad at taking something everyday. I'm still wanting to go med free but am starting to crack on considering Lamictal. Just not sure I'll stick with it if it's going to take a month to start working. Good luck to you.

Lamictal has no indication for use with bipolar mania at all; it is no better than nothing at all. It has been proven useful for bipolar d/o with primarily depressive states and/or major depressive d/o only. It takes a long time to work in any respect because one must start at a low dose and slowly taper up to make sure SJ-syndrome does not occur.

Dr.S.