carbamazepine dose bipolar
These are the newer drugs, particularly selective inhibitors of serotonin reuptake (SSRIs), tricyclics and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). The SSRIs and other newer medications that affect neurotransmitters such as dopamine or norepinephrine generally have fewer side effects than tricyclics. Sometimes the doctor will try a variety of antidepressants before finding the most effective medication or combination of drugs. Sometimes the dosage must be increased to be effective. Despite some improvements can be seen in the first few weeks, antidepressant medications must be taken regularly for 3 to 4 weeks (in some cases, up to 8 weeks) before full therapeutic effect occurs.
Patients often are tempted to stop medication too soon. They may feel better and think they no longer need the medicine. Or they may think the medication is not helping at all. It is important to keep taking medication until it has a chance to work, although the effects side (see side effects section on page 13) may appear before antidepressant activity. Once the patient feel better, it is important continue the medication at least 4 to 9 months to prevent a recurrence of depression. Some medications must be stopped gradually to give the body time to adjust. Never stop taking an antidepressant without consulting the doctor for instructions on safely stopping the medication. For people with bipolar disorder or major depression chronic, medication may have to be maintained indefinitely.
Antidepressant drugs are not a habit. However, as is the case with any type of medication prescribed for more than a few days, antidepressants should be monitored carefully to see if the correct dose is being given. The doctor will check the dosage and its effectiveness regularly.
For the small number of people for whom MAO inhibitors are the best treatment, it is necessary to avoid certain Foods that contain high levels of tyramine, such as many cheeses, wines and pickles, as well as medications such as decongestants. The interaction of tyramine with MAOIs can bring on a hypertensive crisis, a sharp increase in blood pressure that can lead to stroke. The doctor should furnish a complete list of prohibited foods that the patient should carry at all times. Other forms of antidepressants require no food restrictions.
Medications of any type defined, over-the counter, or borrowed should never be mixed without consulting the doctor. Other health professionals who may prescribe a medicine such as a dentist or doctor specialist, others must be informed about the medicines you are taking. Some drugs, although safe when taken alone, if taken with others, have effects serious and dangerous side. Some drugs, like alcohol or drugs, may reduce the effectiveness of antidepressants and should be avoided. This includes wine, beer, and liquor. Some People who have not had a problem with alcohol consumption may be permitted by your doctor to use a small amount of alcohol while taking one of the newer antidepressants.
Antianxiety drugs or sedatives are not antidepressants. They are sometimes prescribed along with antidepressants, however, are not effective when taken alone for a disorder depression. Stimulants, antidepressants, such as amphetamines, are not effective, but are used occasionally under close supervision in depressed patients with diseases medical.
Questions about any antidepressant prescribed, or problems that may be associated with the medication should be discussed with your doctor.
The Lithium has for many years the treatment of choice for bipolar disorder, which can be effective in easing the mood swings common to this disorder. Their use should be carefully monitored, since the interval between effective and toxic dose is small. If a person has preexisting thyroid, kidney, or heart disorders or epilepsy, lithium may not be recommended.
Fortunately, other medications have proved beneficial in controlling mood swings. Among these are two mood-stabilizing anticonvulsants, carbamazepine (Tegretol ®) and valproate (Depakote ®). These two drugs have gained wide acceptance in the clinic , Practice, and valproate has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration for first-line treatment for acute mania. Other anticonvulsants that are used now include lamotrigine (Lamictal ®) and gabapentin (Neurontin ®): their role in the hierarchy in the treatment of bipolar disorder remains under study.
Most people with bipolar disorder take more than one medication including, along with lithium and / or an anticonvulsant, a medication for agitation, anxiety, depression or insomnia. Finding the best possible combination of these drugs is very important for the patient and requires close monitoring by the physician.
Until next time,
Warm regards
Gus Hoover
[http://www.resourcefordepression.com]
Gus Hoover is an expert on depression who has over 10 years of personal experience. Visit [http://www.resourcefordepression.com] and get a free copy of his eReport “Guide to Depression” and subscribe to his online newsletter to receive his latest tips, methods, and insight regarding depression, its causes and the treatments available.
