Posted by inertia on August 9, 2002, at 14:58:06
In reply to bipolar cycling, posted by minisnow on August 9, 2002, at 8:15:59
>I have read numerous books on bipolar disorder and I am trying to figure out when it would be safe for me to go off mood stabilizers and how to determine when I could have another episode.
I think that's a really tough decision. From what I have heard, no one can predict if someone will have a relapse and, if so, when.
I'm not an expert, so I can only speak from my experience. I went off my meds because I was in total remission for 2 years. As soon as I went off, I relapsed. Since then it has been harder to control my bipolar disorder.
So from my experience the only advice I would give a friend is this:
1. If your side effects on your current regimen are not bothering you - Stay On Them! I've lost so many important things in my life because I went off meds. I'd hate to see that happen to you.
2. Whatever you do, I would stay on the Omega-3 since it has few side effects. (I've found certain brands have fewer side effects than others. OmegaBrite is best for me.) In addition, it keeps your LDL cholesterol down and your HDL up. It's also supposed to be good for joint problems. So I think staying on Omega-3 is a win-win situation.
I hope this helps.
poster:inertia
thread:115792
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20020807/msgs/115844.html