QUESTION:
Dear Dr. Heller,
I have the bipolar disease and I am on lithium, Depakote, and atenolol for the shakes from lithium; and Risperdal and something else for my thyroid (because the lithium lowering it). I am doing great on this medication. However, I am 60 pounds over weight and I just started at the gym and try and go everyday. I also started the Weight Watchers diet to do on my own because I am a picky eater and I believe this diet will hopefully work for me. Do you have any other suggestions for me that would help? I also feel that my thinking process is just a little, and I mean just a little, slower than I used to be. Do you have any remedy for this? Again, I am doing great, it's just these little things bother me. I do have a doctor that I do see but I also like to get other information or somebody else's input. Thank you.
ANSWER:
Sometimes lots of medication is necessary, and individuals who seem to be on a lot of
medication actually need that medication. You are on a lot - and the lithium, Depakote and
Risperdal can cause marked reduction in mental functioning. Risperdal is notorious for
profound weight gain.
I'd recommend you read about bipolar disorder and make sure you really do fit that
diagnosis. I've treated many patients who thought they had bipolar but actually had
never had a manic or hypomanic episode. The BPD with other diagnoses may be to blame. I
recommend reviewing the
screening test I use for my patients.
The
What I'm Doing For My Health section may be of use
to you.