Alternative Treatments

[stellaartois]

I have 2 questions: I'm Bipolar and I've been on medication for nearly 9 years. The one medication that I've been on for the duration of this period is Effexor XR. My first question is: Are there any known long-term side-efffects, particularly regarding inertia? Because I have absolutely no motivation; it's been like this for years. I come from a family of extremely motivated people, and even when I'm feeling great I'm still totally unmotivated, and often tired. I'd realy like to get off my meds, but since effexor has such horrible withdrawl symptoms I know this is virtually impossible without professional assistance. Which brings me to my second question: Has the supplement Sam-e been effective in treating bipolar disorder? Would it be possible for me to supplement all of my medication with Sam-e?

[Alex0]

I have been on medications for Bipolar almost 35 years. I have had to change drugs. I was first treated with Thorazine and Stelazine and other nasty stuff. I was on Lithium for years until I became toxic. It is not a one size fits all deal. I have been to over fifty Psychiatrists and at times only saw family Doctors because I hated the psychiatrists. I searched out a really good psychiatrist who was willing to really consider all options. He has me on low doses of several different drugs, vitamins, light therapy, diet and exercise. I am finally feeling in control of my life. I hope you have a doctor who really listens. I was going to try Sam-e but was told it is not good for Bipolar but I don't know.
there is an answer. Alex

[Venora Moonwind]

Well maybe you are too mucheffexor.Our bodies change all the time and maybe you dont need as much as you originally were dx.I was on alot of zyprexa at first but I told my doc I was starting to sleep all the timee so we reduced my med back and I am doing ok now. talk to your doc about about reducing and go from there.I dont know anything about the same you might talk to your doc about tht too. I have done so well with the celexa and zyprexa so I jsut take them and get on with it. good luck and let me know what your doc says.
Love Venora