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Author Topic: I have Bipolar Disorder and Depression and take Atripla  (Read 17381 times)

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Offline Gaguy2know

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I have Bipolar Disorder and Depression and take Atripla
« on: September 20, 2007, 01:52:31 am »
I was diagnosed with HIV in 2003 just recently switched to the once a day Atripla.  I have had Bipolar disorder with depression and manic swings since long before that.  But with the Atripla now in my system, my depression is getting worse.  Its hard to get out of bed every day without sleeping half the day away.  I was also diagnosed with mild case of Tourette's Syndrome so I am on a 4 regimen drug therapy for that and Bipolar disorder.  My drugs consist of Atripla for HIV and Depakote, Effexor ER, Risperdal, Klonopin, and Trazadone.  Yet even tho i spend alot of time in bed i still dont sleep well.  I have been trying to get in touch with my mental health PA (I go to a public health facility) and its hard to get in contact with her.  I have also tried to get in touch with my HIV doctor (also a public health facility) so its also hard to get in touch with the Nurse PRactictioner there.  Does anyone have any suggestions (I realize this is not a replacement for seeing my physicians) on how to deal with the manic/depression parts of bipolar disorder that have increased substantially and also deal withthe Side effects of Atripla associated with that?  Any help would be appreciated.
Veni Vidi Vici
Carpe Diem

Offline Matty the Damned

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Re: I have Bipolar Disorder and Depression and take Atripla
« Reply #1 on: September 20, 2007, 03:45:34 am »
Guy,

Welcome to the Forums!

These are major psychiatric issues you're talking about and I think that it's important you get in contact with you PA/case worker as a matter of urgency. There's probably not a lot of useful advice you can get over the internet about managing these new acute symptoms you're experiencing.

Nevertheless we have a number of other members who also are living with bi-polar affective disorder and they may be able to assist you with some advice about temporarily managing your problems until you can get a psych appointment.

The sustiva component of your HIV regimen is well known for it's psychotropic effects and I wonder if it's a suitable drug for someone with bi-polar disease. You should ask your psychiatrist to discuss the matter with your HIV specialist/prescriber with a view to having your medications reviewed.

I know getting assistance through public access can be a schlepp, especially if you're having head problems, but it is important you have this addressed. We don't want you sinking into a severe depression, cycling into a manic phase or worse, having a psychotic episode.

Best wishes and keep us updated,

MtD

Offline Gaguy2know

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Re: I have Bipolar Disorder and Depression and take Atripla
« Reply #2 on: September 20, 2007, 09:48:07 am »
I am having more difficulty with th ebipolar effects and tried to call my PA but got a friggin answering machine and they wont let me come in and see her today or not untill my appointment.  i am not sure what to do.  I am having sweats and manic episodes.  this public health system really sucks.  i amnot sure what to do till my appointment next week.
Veni Vidi Vici
Carpe Diem

Offline Andy Velez

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Re: I have Bipolar Disorder and Depression and take Atripla
« Reply #3 on: September 20, 2007, 10:36:16 am »
GA, I don't know where you're writing from but I have two suggestions. Your doctors may be good but that doesn't help you if you can't reach them. 

Are there any AIDS service organizations in your area? I suggest calling and asking for a social worker and/or whoever can direct you to medical care as well. You're current setup is asking way too much of you to shoulder on your own. If you can't make a contact that way then I suggest you go to a hospital emergency room and ask for help.

I'd say you need a comprehensive workup which takes into account everything you're taking as well as the various diagnoses. Make sure you have information with you about what you're taking and the exact doses.

If you let us know where you are writing from we might be able to suggest a place for you to contact.

In the meantime are you eating properly?

You're entitled to better attention so even though you're discouraged don't give up on yourself.

Andy Velez

Offline Dachshund

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Re: I have Bipolar Disorder and Depression and take Atripla
« Reply #4 on: September 20, 2007, 10:52:45 am »
I am having more difficulty with th ebipolar effects and tried to call my PA but got a friggin answering machine and they wont let me come in and see her today or not untill my appointment.  i am not sure what to do.  I am having sweats and manic episodes.  this public health system really sucks.  i amnot sure what to do till my appointment next week.

I feel your pain. I along with others switched from Atripla due to the awful emotional and mental side effects it may produce in some people. I also agree with Andy, it might be time for an emergency room visit. From my personal experience Atripla was just too hard to handle. We don't diagnose over the internet, but if it was me I might be tempted to stop taking the Atripla just long enough to seek medical attention. Were they aware that you were bipolar when they prescribed Atripla? Keep posting, we are listening and hopefully helping.   

Hal

Offline Gaguy2know

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Re: I have Bipolar Disorder and Depression and take Atripla
« Reply #5 on: September 20, 2007, 04:43:58 pm »
well i have good news.  i had someone take me to both the HIV clinic and the mental health clinic within hours of each other.  The nurse and PA at each saw i was in bad shape from the Atripla and the Bipolar that HIV dr put me back on my old regimen of norvir, reyataz, videx ec, and truvada.  the PA at the mental health clinic fitted me in her schedule too and upped my depakote a good bit and the klonopin to help with the manic episode i had been going thru.  i just took my meds and now i am going to bed for the first time in like 2 days.  thank god.  also thanks for all the responses.  its sad it took me beating on their doors to get them to do something immediately.  btw i live in savannah, ga usa
Veni Vidi Vici
Carpe Diem

Offline Matty the Damned

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Re: I have Bipolar Disorder and Depression and take Atripla
« Reply #6 on: September 20, 2007, 04:59:44 pm »
I'm glad to hear it Guy.

It is sad that you had to end up near crisis before you got help, but at least they've removed the Sustiva component.

My tip would be to ensure that your HIV people are talking to your mental health people from here out to ensure that prescribing boo-boos like Sustiva aren't made in the future. As you've discovered, it really isn't suitable for a person with serious psychiatric issues.

Fondly,

MtD

Offline Andy Velez

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Re: I have Bipolar Disorder and Depression and take Atripla
« Reply #7 on: September 20, 2007, 10:10:50 pm »
That IS good news, Guy. Glad you got some help. Hope you get a good night's sleep. Keep us posted on how things are going.

Cheers,
Andy Velez

Offline noahsark

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Re: I have Bipolar Disorder and Depression and take Atripla
« Reply #8 on: November 02, 2007, 12:27:29 am »
I am bi polar and took myself off most of my psych drugs except cymbalta for depression and neuropathy.  Doesn't seem to help either.  I do feel betteer off most the drugs-not aids meds- but now I can barely but it seems to be ok because I have more energy than I've had in 5 years.  Almost feel like I'm speeding.  Is this the manic symptoms- I never really understood the manic-just the depressed part.  Also I used street drugs since I was 14 and now I'm not.  I was off them for 13 years and didn't have depression/bipolar issues, but when they kicked in, and they started playing guinea pig with me, I just got worse and worse.  I resorted back to street drugs and now like I said I'm off them again except for trizivir, viread, cymbalta and motrin, plus 2 centrum silver a day.  Trying to do the healthy stuff-exercise and eating good.  Is there anyway to tell how long this mood will last or when the other depression will return.  I feel so weird.  Used to I'd sleep all the time, now I can't sit stil.  Getting plenty done around the house and gardening and basically feeling good.  Just not used to it. I don't want to be back on psych drugs-my hiv doc is monitoring the cymbalta and pretty well lets me call the shots-but she watches me.  I love her to death-she's great.  love to hear feedback from y'all  later, lisa

Offline Matty the Damned

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Re: I have Bipolar Disorder and Depression and take Atripla
« Reply #9 on: November 02, 2007, 12:34:18 am »
but now I can barely but it seems to be ok because I have more energy than I've had in 5 years.  Almost feel like I'm speeding.  Is this the manic symptoms- I never really understood the manic-just the depressed part.

Lisa,

The speeding sensation you describe could well be the beginning of a manic episode. Given that you've stopped taking your psych meds, this is something to be wary of. The manic phase of bi-polar affective disorder can seem fun at the start but can (and usually does) cycle out of control quickly.

I would recommend that you discuss your psych medication situation with your doctor or clinical nurse as soon as possible. Serious psychiatric conditions like bi-polar need to be managed most carefully.

MtD

Offline beachmonkey24

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Re: I have Bipolar Disorder and Depression and take Atripla
« Reply #10 on: November 11, 2007, 04:43:28 pm »
I am also on Atripla and have depression, anxiety, and manic episodes. I am a survivor of 9-11 (was on the 74th floor of the South WTC tower) so I know that the depression etc are preexisting. I never thought that Atripla could be contributing to the severity. It is really a problem right now since I moved across the country last May and am just starting a new job. I have not been in treatment for various reasons but am about to start...I am really wishing I was already on antidepressants so I did not have to wait for them to kick in!!!
The time has come the walrus said to speak of many things. Of shoes and ships and ceiling wax of cabbages and kings.

Offline woober

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Re: I have Bipolar Disorder and Depression and take Atripla
« Reply #11 on: November 12, 2007, 09:26:35 pm »
I have not noticed a significant change in my depression :( since starting Atripla; however, I am always depressed.  I have given-up on pharmacology.  I try to focus on "what's good in my life" (dogs, cats, farm animals etc (and of course my significant other)). 

I have recently started going back to church and I am comforted by worship.

Just remember life is short, too short for some and too long for others.  We only get this one chance to impact others and to improve ourselves.

Offline beachmonkey24

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Re: I have Bipolar Disorder and Depression and take Atripla
« Reply #12 on: November 13, 2007, 09:45:54 am »
I have to agree with you Woober. I now have 3 dogs and they have helped me a great deal. There is something about having someone (even a dog) that relies on you. My partner travels a lot, but we treasure his time home. I have also gone back to church and find comfort in the tradition, community, and worship. I am even the co-chair of the Idaho Integrity group after only being in Idaho 5 months.

I joined a gym, but it doesn't open for another few weeks....it is a great way to join and be able to say "yes I am keeping my commitment to going to the gym' <g>

I also find that meditation helps a lot when I take the time to do it regularly.

Even with all of that I still struggle.
The time has come the walrus said to speak of many things. Of shoes and ships and ceiling wax of cabbages and kings.

Offline beachmonkey24

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Re: I have Bipolar Disorder and Depression and take Atripla
« Reply #13 on: November 16, 2007, 10:41:32 am »
Well, I went to a counselor yesterday morning and then saw a psych doctor in the afternoon. Because of my past suicide attempts, it is tough for them to determine what will be best for me. We finally decided that stabilizing my mood and getting me to sleep was the first priority...last night I started Seroquel. I will be on that with a low dose for 3 nights and then increase it. I will also add Wellbutrin XL after three days.

I was also given a very limited number of meds to prevent me from an overdose before I have a chance to stabilize. It is kind of embarrassing to admit that, but I appreciate that my care team is aware of my potential for abuse even if I think I am not likely to get that destructive.  :-[
The time has come the walrus said to speak of many things. Of shoes and ships and ceiling wax of cabbages and kings.

Offline Peter6836

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Re: I have Bipolar Disorder and Depression and take Atripla
« Reply #14 on: November 24, 2007, 06:52:01 pm »
Hi,
Handling a bi polar disorder is a tough thing to do. Even when you are not on Atripla. I also have bipolar disorder and find that it has escalated through the years. I am an advocate of working with your doctors. I mention it to all of my doctors be they my psych, ID, or general practitioner. The last time I was in the hospital with OI's and put on Atripla I began to work with a team that works together. Together they keep my medications adjusted. As for there being any one fix. I do not think their is. I have been on many different medications. It has come to the point where I now take what I call a cocktail or drugs. When I feel those manic episodes I take resperidul, and always have a xanax close by. It is a struggle to keep things on an even keel and some days I feel more successful than others. I guess the most important thing is to not give up. It is possible to control this disorder to the extent that you can function normally. Keep working on it, not to say that you will not have your days. I have a roomate that really has functioned as a caregiver, he helps me to recognize the changes in my affect which helps me to find the help I need. It really is hard to recognize the nuances of the disorder on your own. A support group works well also or just a circle of friends that have been educated by you to recognize the symptoms of your disorder. As with any disease be your best patient advocate seek out the best doctors you can and engage people you trust in your treatment.
Peter
PS. This forum is a great place to vent, and Andy (the moderator) is a wonderful support.

Offline sacinsc

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Re: I have Bipolar Disorder and Depression and take Atripla
« Reply #15 on: November 25, 2007, 02:53:14 am »
Hey bud,

I have the same issue except I am on different HIV meds. One thing you gotta get OFF the Tradezone, I tossed mine. They rarely use it anymore for depression it was given to me as a sleep aid and it knocked me flat and kept me in a fog the entire next day. Seriously that crap isn't worth it!!!
The Seroquel is almost the same. First my body adjusted to it really really fast, then when I did take it I wouldn't "right" the next day. So I tossed that one too. I was on Depakote but it doesn't play well with the liver so that went away and now I am on lithium which I told them I wanted it to go away as well since it doesn't play well with the liver either. They have moved me onto Lamictal. Its a very slow process to get on it....if you take it to fast and with depakote especially it can kill you....literally...some rash thing that takes over. Now I am being taken off the lithium which i hate because the tremors in the hands anyway. I also take the Lexapro now, they moved me off Effexor as it wasn't doing the trick and plays nicely with the Lamictal. To sleep I take 1mg of Klonipin a night. I'd tell you if all this was working for my bipolar but my life is so deep in turmoil that it would take valium and cocaine to stabilize me. But I do know that this cocktail of bipolar meds plays well with my HIV meds.


Dude I feel ya, its taken them 8 years of mixing things with me and now the HIV meds complicate things. When I went to my new shrink he kept calling out drugs and I kept saying...yeah, been there. :)

Make sure you ID Doc and Shrink are in sync and talking to each other. Mine do. Makes life easier!!! I know in your situation that is difficult to maintain, glad you got it done this time, but that have to continues yapping at each other. But kill that Trad.............that is one NASTY drug!


:) Matt
« Last Edit: November 25, 2007, 02:58:09 am by sacinsc »
March 07 - Negative
May 07 - Exposed
June 07 - Seroconversion
September 07 - CD4 402 VL 118000 25%
October 07 -     CD4 294 VL 124000 22%
November 07 - Norvir, Triuvada and Reyataz
December 07 -  CD4 355 VL  550 .... guess the meds are working.
January 08 - CD4 446 VL <48 undetectable!
April 08 - CD4 554 VL <48 undetectable!
July 08 - CD4 666 VL <48 undetectable! Hporay...I have devil CD4's

Offline Gaguy2know

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Re: I have Bipolar Disorder and Depression and take Atripla
« Reply #16 on: July 07, 2008, 06:29:10 am »
hello there again.  just writing back to let everyone know that my meds have been regulated and theyhave got me on a regimen that is doing good.   at first when it began i was mos tly depressed. then now its swinging to mostly manic so they had to adjust my meds.  for all  my conditions": Tourettes Syndrome, Bipolar Disorder, Agoraphobia (seeing a psychologist for th is), OCD i am t aking 2500mg of Depakote a day,  1mg of clonazepam per day, 100mg trazadone a day, 3mg risperdal a day, adn 225mg of effexor a day.   it seems to work ok. it sure helps me calm down and sleep for at least 4 hours a day. if not for that  i would be up for a week.   beachmonkey how are you doing if you ready this?

eric
Veni Vidi Vici
Carpe Diem

 


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