[kitten55]

I've been on lithium of varying amounts since about 2000. I was on Abilify for about 10 years until last fall when I developed Parkinson's symptoms. The Abilify was stopped and Lithium become my primary medication. I supplement with Wellbutrin for depression. I have a very sensitive system so it only takes 450-600mg of Lithium for me to reach "therapeutic" levels. Above that, I manifest toxic side effects. The problem is, I still cycle quite a bit; I was suicidal last week. I nearly bought a sports car this week. In short, I don't think the lithium is working. I have head tremors, tardive dyskinesia (tongue and jaw), clenched teeth, air hunger, ...all likely from the Abilify but documented to also possibly be aggravated by the Lithium.

I see my psychiatrist this afternoon. My question is this...should I consider stopping the lithium, as well? I don't have many options. I tend to break out in a rash with others.

[live2ski66]

I hope you shared this with your doc. He should know of an alternative to the lithium if that is the path to take. I would not quit any medicine I've been taking for a period of time unplanned. I don't care for side effects. Good luck!

Agreed. You should have a plan in place, alternatives and work with a doctor. 10 years is a long time to be on any med and then just quit everything. I suspect it would be very risky. How quickly did you take to taper off abilify?

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[kitten55]

I don't remember how long it took to come off Abilify but it seems like it was pretty quick, probably too abrupt. The tardive dyskinesia came on a couple of months later...and has only become worse. Now I clench my teeth and gasp for air. I feel like I've aged 30 years in 6 months.

BTW, I brought up to my psychiatrist my interest in stopping the Lithium. He kind of side-stepped the whole issue. He's more concerned with where I was emotionally last week. I was in a very bad place. He thinks I'm still there. I probably am.