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Medication insight for bipolar?

User Profile: azurePrune7248
azurePrune7248 November 26th, 2023

I hope this is ok for me to ask. If not, I’m really sorry. i’ve taken medication for symptoms of my bipolar in the past and last year I was officially diagnosed when I had a manic episode. we are having issues finding the right medication. Part of the problem is I’m really scared to take antipsychotics because of the side effects. I don’t think there’s anything wrong with taking the medication, but I’m really scared of getting some of the movement related side effects of the medication. does anyone have any advice or insight into the medication that they have taken for bipolar?

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User Profile: CaliConfined
CaliConfined November 27th, 2023

@azurePrune7248

I take a low dose of generic Abilify (antipsychotic) and it works for me. Trust me I was against them as well, but needed to do something about my irritability. Sometimes it's ok to try, you need to find what works for you. It has helped me and I don't think I will take it long-term, hope this helps! 

Wish you the best. 

User Profile: pioneeringSummer858
pioneeringSummer858 November 28th, 2023

I started getting eye twitching from one antipsychotic and then switched to another and am having no issues. The eye twitching went away. It's trial and error to see what works best for you with the guidance of your provider. Good luck

User Profile: purplewolflover
purplewolflover November 29th, 2023

Lamictal is what I take it’s been a life saver

User Profile: ThoughtLight
ThoughtLight November 29th, 2023

@azurePrune7248 as a verified listener I have rules on how I approach this area. But I can relate. I will spare details but I've been living with bipolar disorder 1 for 16 years. I was 15 when the storm hit. Meds are frustrating. It's all trial and error. I've tried over 30 combos but my brain is stubborn. Many people are nervous about anti psychotics. The movement disorders sound intimidating. It's called tarditive dyskinesia or TD. Every anti psychotic has that warming. Here is an interesting fact about it. Not my opinion. To get that you'd need to be on max doses for a long time. And here's a fact several medical sources have said. It is uncommon to actually see some who actually has it. The warning makes it sound common and easy to get. In reality it's just the law for certain risks to appear on a medication bottle. No matter how low the risk. And that condition is easily treated now. I'm going to tell you some advice a psychiatrist gave me. If you focus on all the long lists of possible side effects you mind with trick itself into thinking in had certain ones. Tell your medication provider your concerns. Listen to their explanations. Medical school taught a thing or two. Report and side as early as possible. Do what I do sometimes I keep a list of questions and bring it to the appointment. You have patient rights. Keep them handy.