Is My Medicine Making Me Weak And Causing Me To Shake?

QUESTION:

Dear Dr. Heller,

Can you answer a question?  I have been Bipolar for over a year and the medicine is making it not easy for me to work.  My muscle control is terrible.  My arm aches and I can't hold a cup in my hand.  I shake very bad.  I have even lost my bladder at night.  Is this because of my illness?

ANSWER:

Yes, the medication can be causing these symptoms.  You should get labs checked, including a CBC, chemistry profile, urinalysis, thyroid profile, sed rate and B12 level.  If normal, changing your bipolar medication may be the wisest course.  If the symptoms persist, you'll need a neurological evaluation.