How Do You Treat ADHD when the BPD or Bipolar is Present?

Written by Dr. Leland Heller

QUESTION:

Hello Dr.,

I really enjoyed going through your website. I came here in search of help for my husband (45) who has suffered with anxiety (some bad panic attacks) most of his adult life. This disorder is accompanied by what seems to be an incurable and lifelong irrational fear of flying as well as an explosive temper. A few years ago our now 8 year old son was diagnosed

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ADD. At the time I was given many questionnaires to fill out about the family. I strongly believe after much reading on the subject that my poor husband has also suffered with ADD most of his life. I don't see from the screening test that he is either BPD or Bi-polar. Can you suggest avenues of help for someone possibly suffering from this combination of disorders?

DR. HELLER'S ANSWER:

The BPD and bipolar need to be treated first. In my experience 80% of those with bipolar can successfully take stimulants like Adderall and Ritalin as long as a mood stabilizer like Tegretol (carbamazepine) or Depakene (valproic acid or valproate) are on board. Those who can't need to take Strattera.

There is no problem co-treating the BPD for ADHD. In fact treating each disorder improves the other disorder as well.

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