Wednesday, January 13, 2010 sam60 asks

Q: Still can't sleep at night....

I have been recently diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder just before Thanksgiving 2009, Dr.s have been adjusting meds the last 2 1/2 months. One type of my manic episodes usually include days of sleeplessness. The fist thing perscribed was the Seroquel 1,000 mg's at bedtime, adderall [20 mg 2x] , changed my lexapro to celexa 40 mg, .

After a month on the Seroquel he switched me to Depokote 1,000 mg's, [2x 500] at bedtime, and he has added Klonopine at bedtime as well and I am still up all night. Has anyone had trouble with sleeping when taking these meds that should be calming?

I have other anxiety disorders along with the Bipolar Disorder. Since being diagnosed I am trying to figure out what all of this means, to me.

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Answers (1)

Jerry Kennard, Health Guide

1/13/10 10:19am

Your diagnosis is quite recent and to receive a medication change so soon afterwards is perhaps part of the issue. No doubt your doctor is trying to respond to your needs in the best way he/she can, but it does take time for medication to embed. Sleep disturbance is an issue for people with bipolar as it often spells the start of an episode. I'm not sure what to suggest as you have clearly been back to your doctor for additional help.

It may be a case of toughing it out until your mood settles a little and the meds get to work. Meanwhile some very simple home remedies can help. Stay off caffeine, sugary drinks and foods, try to get some fresh air and exercise and eat a balanced diet. Anything that causes stress should be avoided where possible. Try not to cat-nap during the day and prepare for bed by reading and avoiding stimulation such as TV or computers.

Hope this helps a little

sam60

1/13/10 2:07pm

Thank you very much. This is encouraging. I have heard that it takes quite a while for the meds to do what they are intended to do. Yes, since being diagnosed Ihave followed through with my appointments.. I have had 3 to date. He all along suggests I see a therapist yet has not placed me. Not sure if this is usual either. I am suspecting maybehe is trying to help my episodes settle before he places me with one. My visit was Monday, the first meeting since the first of december. While going through intake I was asked about my moods, how i felt over the Holidays, etc. I answered that I cried through the whole holiday season. I WAS able to bake my cookies, Ha! So the physical tasks I managed better than before, I was just an emotional wreck! When I got in to see my Psych, he said I had a good report! I said Are you kidding me? I cried throught the whole thing. His response, "That's progress!" Does this sound like I am on track, and am treated according the norm for this disorder? I certainly appreciate this site. It is most helpful.. It is really hard to find a place to go with this stuff! Thanks again.

Chris

1/14/10 9:55pm

you can ask your doctor for an additional med for sleep. I have three meds I take for sleep. I take the first one at bedtime. If I'm still not asleep after an hour, I take the second one. If after another hour i'm still not asleep, I take the third.

clonopin is very strong. I'm surprised that didn't do the trick.

Q: Still can't sleep at night....

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