Bipolar Disorder - Before, Now and Coming!

» biggs2000 - bipolar

This was an interesting article. I have close experience with it and did know most of the information,but it does raise some concern knowing that my son sooner or later will suffer a breakthrough where the medication will not work.
I pray that doesn't happen. He has been on lithium for 9 yrs. and have not had a definite manic episode and pray that he doesn't.
Thank you this was well written.

-- posted by biggs2000

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» DeBuhrDM - Problems with Use of Lithium for Treatment of Bipolar Disorder

Enjoyed your article but from my experience of taking Lithium from 1978 to 1990, I found that there is information that clients should be aware of:
* Lithium is a salt; need to drink a LOT OF WATER; any other drinks don't count.
* Blood tests need to be given to keep a person at therapeutic levels.
* After 12 years, I start to become toxic.
* I developed hyperactive parathyroidism which you should have your PTH checked when you are taking Lithium.
* Having hyperactive parathyroidism lead me into osteoporosis at an early age.
* In 1997, I had to have two surgeries; the first surgeon only could remove two of the four glands. Went to another surgeron; he took out one and half glands. I am operating on 1/2 gland which is less than the size of a piece of rice.
* I also now have chronic renal insufficiency (your creatinine levels need to be taken regularly). Long use of Lithiium may affect your kidneys. I have heard a psychologist mention that in a presentation that he gave.

I have been on Depakote since 1990; this year, my dexa scan shows that I have regained my bone loss.

What I am trying to say is to be cautious of Lithium; get your labs done; very important.

There are many other anti manic or mood stabilizers meds than Lithium.

Take it from my experience.

-- posted by DeBuhrDM

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