Dear Mike:

How do you get out of bed in the morning when you are on Thorazine?

Answer:

Thorazine is a very sedating antipsychotic medication. One could lessen the tired feeling by dividing the dose into a 4 times a day schedule. Inform your doctor about this problem, as a reduction of dose or, switching to a less sedating medication are possibilities.

Dear Mike:

What is Neurontin and how does it work?

Answer:

Neurontin was originally marketed as a treatment for epilepsy. It is now being used also in the treatment of the manic phase of bipolar disorder. The exact mechanism of it is not known. It may work by suppressing abnormal electrical impulses in the brain.

Dear Mike:

When should I speak to a pharmacist instead of a doctor?

Answer:

You should feel free to speak to both your doctor and pharmacist. The pharmacist is a good source of information on side effects and drug interactions especially about non prescription as well as prescription medications. The doctor is a good source of information about the effectiveness of medications and dosages.

Questions about medications may be sent to Mike DiPirro in care of Mental Health World, 3108 Main Street, Buffalo, New York 14214 or email at mhw@buffnet.net.