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Lamictal success for PTSD??

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Posted 4/16/2014 1:25 AM (GMT 0)
Hello- I am just looking to see how many have used Lamictal with GOOD results for PTSD. I am currently on Buspirone, Propranolol and now have added Lamictal. My PTSD flared up again due to many distressing life events in one year. The Buspirone seemed to calm me a bit, the propranolol is awesome for my tremors and increased heart rate, but the Lamictal is brand new. I have been experiencing super low times where I just want to end it all, I cry for the slightest thought and I get angry at nothing. IT's all because my brain just won't STOP. However, today was my first day taking Lamictal. I expected the worst. Dizziness, fatigue, possible rash, etc. I am beyond surprised that after just 3 hours I felt happy, have a smile and I want to talk to people. I have GAD, SAD, PTSD and I believe also, depression. Has anyone else had that fast of an effect? I have never experienced it before. In the last 10+ years I have tried Paxil, Zoloft, Celexa, and Effexor. None really worked except Paxil. Now my doc says that is too toxic and she will never give it to anyone. This is my first time on a forum. Any shared experiences or input would be so helpful!!!!
Posted 4/16/2014 4:50 AM (GMT 0)
Hi JTTBM and welcome!

I am glad to read that you have started to feel better already after just starting your new med!

I personally have not heard of using this Rx to treat anything other than bi-polar/bi-polar 2 (for mental health related issues not related to seizure disorders)...but I am not a medical professional either, so that is not saying a lot!

If I may ask, was this prescribed by your GP, or psychiatrist...or other doctor? I am just curious.

You may want to post with the Bi-polar Forum as well, as they migtht be a little more familiar with this med than our members.

Wishing you the best, and inviting you to check out our Resources here...and post with us anytime for anxiety support!

Scaredy Cat
Posted 4/16/2014 1:34 PM (GMT 0)
It was prescribed to me by my GP. Apparently it is being used off label for PTSD and OCD due to it working well on breaking up the constant thoughts of fear or obsessive tendancies. I was a little hesitant to try it due to the "rash" threat, but I figure it's worth giving it a shot!

Thank you for the info and I will ask in the Bi-polar forum!
Posted 4/16/2014 1:54 PM (GMT 0)
JustTryinToBeME,

Hello and welcome to HealingWell.  You are right -  Lamictal is often used by psychiatrists off label as a mood elevator.  I was on this drug for about 6 months, however, it was added to my cocktail of meds as I have always been on a major antidepressant.

Did it work for me - it may have helped but I will admit this was one drug I was worried about the black box warning that comes with Lamictal.

I will post a link for you to read about this med.  In no way am I telling you not to take the medication and I probably would have been fine but I chose to stop the med.

You may want to discuss this side effect with your Dr.

http://bipolar.about.com/od/lamictal/a/lamictal-rash-warning-plain-english.htm

Kindly,

Kitt

Posted 4/16/2014 2:32 PM (GMT 0)
Hi Kitt,
Thank you for the info. I have been researching this drug for a week. It's actually been sitting on the counter for that long due to my fear of trying it before I thoroughly understood the side effects.

I have realized that although a very small amount of people develop a rash, an extremely small amount of people develop SJS. I read in one spot it's as little as 1 in 100,000. Also, it's usually in cases where they start you out too high, I am starting at 25mg, and when mixed with other anti convulsion medication.

Trust me I am watching and waiting for a rash or hives. It's still a bit scary for me!!
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