BPD Medications and Hepatitis

Written by Dr. Leland Heller

QUESTION:

After taking many different medications for BPD and clinical depression and OCD my pharmacologist has me taking time released Effexor (3-175mg tabs in am) and Luvox (1 am-100mg and 1 pm-100mg) plus 8 weeks ago Depakote (3 at bedtime 125mg each)

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After getting my liver profile taken 4 weeks ago, I showed a higher than normal elevation. Today I went to my endocrinologist (primary) physician and he said my liver profile was out of normal range. (too high) I told him I was there today because I have swollen up all around my stomach and the sides. He said I was actually "bruised" around the liver area, and that I seemed to be having a dangerous allergic reaction to Depakote..

My "seizures" during a bad "Tourette" attack are I suppose the "normal", only they seem to be getting worse, even when I was taking Depakote with the Luvox and Effexor I wasn't feeling "on top of things" anymore. I was feeling great one year ago when I started the Luvox and effexor, but they don't help anymore.

I also have Hepatitis C, that's why the reaction to Depakote I suppose..

What do I do now?? Why do I seemingly have to constantly change medications?. What combinations would you recommend for my illness considering I have Hepatitis C?

DR. HELLER'S ANSWER:

First of all make sure the hepatitis C is being treated. Germany's Commission E recommends 12-15gms daily of milk thistle, and I have seen it help. With depression problems you may not be a candidate for interferon.

Tegretol is an excellent substitute for Depakote. Perhaps a lower dose of Effexor combined with Prozac and Tegretol could be considered.

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