Lamictal...isn't 300mg kind of steep?

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After being on and off Lexapro for the last couple of years I finally went to see a psychiatrist (I'm not ashamed) and he told me to imagine a triangle: one side is very sad, tearful (lack of serotonin), the other side is exhausted, limbs feel like lead(norepinephrine) at the top of the triangle the feelings are very complacent, no interest in anything, anhedonic (dopamine).

Then he asked which side I was.

I told him that while I certainly feel melancholic a lot of the time, I would have to say it was definitely a cross between exhaustion and anhedonia.

He was like, ah ha! You have been taking the wrong medication!

Then he asked me if I ever had an episode where I had increased energy, made bad decisions, etc. I definitely could not say no to that. So now I am bipolar (but he assured me I was in exhalted company).

He said I will stabilize you with Lamictal, then I will put you on Wellbutrin or Cymbalta. We will start out gradually with Lamictal and work up to 300mg daily.

That seems like an awful lot to me. Is this a lot? Or is it a normal dose? I'm on my 5th day of 25mg, I have had some of the blurred vision and I also have a bitter taste in my mouth which I don't like. But I would rather put up with these side effects if it means my mental well-being will improve. There is nothing worse than living in a mental prison of depression. I would rather be assured of having ten good years and dying from the medication than 30 long drawn out years feeling like I have been feeling mentally.

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Specializes in home health, neuro, palliative care.

Motorcyle Mama,

I'm sorry to hear you are struggling. I'm sure I speak for everyone when I say I hope you continue to come to the forum for support. Medical information, though, is best given by your doctor. If you are concerned about side effects or dosage, tell him. It is possible to have symptoms of bipolar remit totally with the proper treatment, but you have to communicate with your docs/therapist, etc. Get better soon!

~Mel'

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Specializes in Education, FP, LNC, Forensics, ED, OB.

Thread has ventured into the seeking of medical advice.

Please pose all questions regarding your treatment plan to your PCP for he/she is the only one who can advise you.

We all wish only the best for you, motorcycle mama.

Thread closed.

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