AZ
A 18-year-old female asked:
will phentermine and birth control worsen bipolar disorder?
5 doctor answers • 7 doctors weighed in
Dr. Kevin Passer answered
Child Psychiatry 35 years experience
Phentermine could: I would avoid Phentermine in patients with bipolar d/o as i think it could make a person's moods unstable, increase the risk of mania and psychosis. I also see folks lose weight on various diets and/or appetite suppressants only to gain the weight back when they stop the diet or the pills. I know weight loss is hard, but changing one's lifestyle with a healthy diet and regular exercise is best.
5578 viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Douglas Bey answered
Psychiatry 57 years experience
Yes: Some bc pills may contribute to depression in some women but diet pills are a definite no no for individuals with a bipolar disorder--can bring on manic episode & may prime the pump & lead to rapid cycling.
5578 viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Mark Reynolds answered
Psychiatry 33 years experience
Caution: I agree with drs. Bey and passer. Medications such as Phentermine that stimulate CNS activity can precipitate mania, and what goes up comes back down. Occasionally birth control products, especially those higher in Progesterone can contribute to depression, though this is rarely an issue. Many mood stabilizers are less then friendly for weight, speak to your psychiatrist about options to help.
5578 viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Alan Ali answered
Psychiatry 32 years experience
Bipolar: Hormones and diet pills are one of many substances that affect moods and can add to cycling.
5572 viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Matthew Keener answered
Child Psychiatry 16 years experience
Yes, however...: Either can cause adrenergic elevation, risking increased mania or mixed states, however birth control pills can often stabilize mood cycling related to the menstrual cycle. Pay attention to what you are feeling, you're usually the best gauge!
5572 viewsReviewed >2 years ago
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Last updated Oct 3, 2016
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