HCV Treatment w/ bipolar...

Question

i have bipolar disorder what to do now? do you know anyone bipolar who treated successfully?

spectda · Accepted Answer

If you have not had hcv for very long why not wait for better meds to be available that have increased success rates, shorter treatment time and may very possibly not require ifn as part of the mix. 

Many of us waited 30-40 yrs before being treated. If you have only had hcv for a few years or less it is highly unlikely that waiting for a few years will do you any harm. You really do have options and should put some serious thought into what is best for you. 

-Dave

Infojunkie99 · Answer

I am bi-polar as well with HCV. I have suffered with severe depression for more than 50% of my life. Being as I have developed strong coping skills, I would think that I would be able to handle the depression better than someone who has NEVER experienced it before. Depression is a very difficult feeling to deal with if you have never experienced it before. Coupled with a serious illness, that is an emotional whirlwind. I am remaining positive and I am willing to explore whatever treatment works and just keep an eye on my psychological issues. My liver fx is great and I want to start the fight when I am healthy so that I can beat this. I want to have another baby:)

happyhepper2010 · Answer

thank you all for your opinion :D !

uncledudeness · Answer

"The only thing I can say is that treating with bipolar may be difficult because interferon causes severe depression even in healthy individuals without psychiatric issues. "

in my 14th week of treatment and no signs of depression and i am a some-what healthy individual, at least mentally i guess. wouldn't it be better to say "interferon has the potential to cause depression"? not everyone experiences adverse side effects to SOC treatment.

tashka · Answer

If your bipolar is well-controlled, you may attempt treatment under very close supervision of the psychiatrist. And you yourself should be very watchful about your mental status. Nobody knows you better than yourself.

happyhepper2010 · Answer

sometimes i get depressed but not that bad, i'm currently taking zyprexa and lithium to alleviate my symptoms...

tashka · Answer

The only thing I can say is that treating with bipolar may be difficult because interferon causes severe depression even in healthy individuals without psychiatric issues. If your doctor thinks you can try treatment, you should be followed up very closely, because your bipolar can worsen. 

How bad is your bipolar? Is it well-controlled? What medicines do you take for it?