It could take a while before you are "normalized" It could also take several different kinds of meds to get you there. Most people with BP have to take several different meds.
I have been diagnosed BP for about 8 yrs now. i've been on more meds than I can keep track of. You have to try them to see if it works for you, if it doesn't, you move on to the next. It will take time and a lot patience to find the right "cocktail" of meds that will work for you. You have to weigh out the risks, side effects (are you willing to gain 30lbs, loose your hair, or have a "cotton ball" for brains?), and benefits of these meds to decide what will work for you. Everyone is different. Even when you do find the right meds you will still have rough times. The most important thing is to have a doctor that you trust, who knows what they are doing and to have regular check ups. Communication between you and your doctor is key.
I keep a notebook just for doctor visits, and one for educating myself. When I start to feel "off" I write down what I am feeling, the symptoms. Like unexplained rage, headaches, Hard to slow down and rationalize things, poor judgment, saying things I shouldn't, panic attacks, crying spells, trouble making decisions, just not caring, worrying, spending my entire savings ect. Those are the nicer side of symptoms. The best thing you can do is educate yourself, do research. Keep notes of your research in the notebook to remind yourself. Bring the notebook with your symptoms and feelings to your appointments with you, share these with your doctors. It will really help them to be able to see what is really going on with you on a daily basis, and be able to get you on the right meds. I have several notebooks now.
It's an ongoing roller coaster ride, sometimes all I can do is hold on and go for the ride, by now I know how to react and what I need to do to get well again, and when it is ok to just ride it out. But have no fear, those are the times that you need to reach out and get help, reevaluate the meds.
One last thing, I am currently taking Wellbutrin, Lamictal, and Seroquel. I have been on these for a few years now, and they seem to be doing the trick, Like I said I still have bad spells, but that is something that is a part of it. Certain times of year, and certain events, I know to be prepared for the chance that I will have an episode. Keep us posted...
