What Causes Persistent Depressive Symptoms While Treating Bipolar Disorder?

Posted on Mon, 8 May 2017

Question: Hi Dr Bishnoi, I am having problems with my bioplar, it is getting the best of me. You told me that I need to go back on the Zoloft and trazodone. I am afraid to go outside and having people to come over. I will be 65 in may and the new meds too many side affects. Sleep is almost poor. I lost my daughter passed away 2014 and my son passed away in 2001. My speech and thoughts are slower. I don't even want to go to see a doctor. What would you think?m

Answered by Dr. Shubham Mehta (41 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Shift back to Zoloft and trazodone.

Detailed Answer:
Hello
Welcome to HCM.
I understand your concerns.
Considering your details, I think you are having depressive symptoms. And you last medicines (lexapro and amitriptyline) are not helping you either.
In my opinion, you should switch back to your previous treatment of Zoloft and trazodone.
This would help in resolution of your depressive symptoms. Zoloft can be taken upto doses of 200mg. Trazodone 100mg must have a brought a good nights sleep. if not, the dose can be increased further.

Hope this helps.
Please feel free to ask further.
Thanks.

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D