Can I stop taking my bipolar medicine if I feel better?
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Dr. Michael Roizen answered:Absolutely not. Do not stop taking your bipolar medicine even if you have not had any recent episodes. Going cold turkey is as dangerous as jumping in front of a speeding car. If you think you can cut back, talk to your doctor. You can work together to find the best dose and combination for you.Absolutely not. Do not stop taking your bipolar medicine even if you have not had any recent episodes. Going cold turkey is as dangerous as jumping in front of a speeding car. If you think you can cut back, talk to your doctor. You can work together... More -
Dr. Cindy Haines answered:The key to staying "better" with bipolar disorder is staying on your recommended treatment plan.The key to staying "better" with bipolar disorder is staying on your recommended treatment plan. More -
Dr. Michael Berk of International Bipolar Foundation answered:This is generally a bad idea. While a small percentage of individuals will have a single episode, the vast majority of people are able to live well with the disorder by adapting their lifestyles to the disorder, including the regular use of medication. The vast majority of people who have been stabilized on medication will experience a relapse on discontinuation of treatment, even though this may take some months to occur.
This is generally a bad idea. While a small percentage of individuals will have a single episode, the vast majority of people are able to live well with the disorder by adapting their lifestyles to the disorder, including the regular use of... More
