??? Neurontin, Wellbutrin, Depakote

Hi,

I am trying to find help for my brother. He has been on various meds for years to treat his bi-polar illness. Over the years he has seen more doctors than I can imagine (and I have had my share with a heart and seizure disorder). His latest combinations of drugs that they are trying is Neurontin 1800mg, Depakote 1500mg SR, and Wellbutrin 600mg. He recently had a bad episode of depression, and also is struggling with the side-effects of the drugs. (weight gain, insomnia, etc). Also, he is concerned about the long-term side-effects, such as liver or kidney damage.

At this point he has lost all hope, and is ready to quit all of his meds. I know this isn't wise, but I also understand his frustations. Does anyone have any experiences with these drugs? Do you know of any alternatives? The doctors keep increasing his dosage with every visit and he feels he is caught in a viscous cycle. Any help would be appreciated.

Thank you,
Hannah

[justaround]

He shouldn't worry about kidney and liver problems with these drugs if his doctor is doing what he/she is giving the scheduled blood test checkups as they are supposed to be doing. Just quitting the meds is a VERY dangerous idea. Wellbutrin needs to be tapered as suicide is evident with sudden withdrawl. I tried this before and have never felt so wretched in my life before...and that was from only 150mg. Physical anxiety, full body convullsions, dark depression, sweats, and aggression. If he is tapered under the care of his physician he should be fine. Sudden withdrawl from the others can be dangerous as well, leading to manic stages if he has bipolar and since they are anti-convulsants seizures may occur. Tapering by a physician is always wise. Has he been tried on other anti-depressants or bipolar meds?? Keep trying