I have now been on verapamil 360 and lithium 300 for 8 days. The last 3 days I have had no major attacks but intermittant k1-k2. Huge improvement.

What do you guys think about me increasing dosage to try to get rid of the shadows? Too soon? Go ahead?

Also, what side affects have been experienced from this combo?

I never took the 2 together. 1200 mg a day lithium is my magic number. Definitely wanna work close with your doc before adjusting levels. Given the time frames I usually experience with lithium 10-14 days to really become effective, I think I'd wait a few more days before adjusting up. Great to hear the combo struck as hard and as fast as it did, that combo's helped many on the board.

Joe

Yea, I'll see how the weekend goes. I even did a little yard work today and worked up a sweat....not even a shadow! Drank a couple of Red Bulls just out of habit.

You guys know how it goes, though. I am scared to say much for fear of jinxing myself. This last year has been so bizarre. No rhyme nor reason. Just the demon constantly lurking.

Whether this cocktail is the answer for a while or not; all of you on this site have really helped me get through the last few weeks. After 30 years, this last year of chronic was wearing me down.

Because of you, I now am sure there is a solution out there to be found! Thanks!!

One needs to be extremely careful about mixing verapamil with the taurine in the Red Bull. Too much of either when used in combination can cause arrhythmia.

Marc has a point there.

haven't you taken instructions from a doc how to proceed or you just took them alone?
its one thing to ask others about your thoughts in a treatment you are supposed to follow and another


Quote:

What do you guys think about me increasing dosage to try to get rid of the shadows? Too soon? Go ahead?

....go ahead in what?

I'd say go ahead in talking to your doctor. They will know your medical history and are better qualified to be able to work with you to decide what the appropriate dose for you is.

I know that I'd be reluctant to change my own doses however I am more than happy to ask my doctor about changing doses, timings, etc.

Glad to hear that you are getting some relief...That use to be my magic combo...I had to be taken off of the lithium 3 separate times (due to blood)...You should definitely speak with your doc before you increase or decrease any of your meds...Of course you need to have your blood monitored.....Lenny

Check with your doctor, of course.  My heart goes out to you and all Chronics.  While in cycle my Verapamil dose was triple what you say and I was monitored for heart isues.  Out of cycle, I'm on a smaller dose of Verapamil -- It does double duty as a blood pressure medication and (maybe) a CH preventative.  No red buls for me lately, but I take a taurine supplement every day. 

Best wishes!
Jim

Yea, we did a complete blood and urine work up to establish a current baseline. Everything was fine. I am due to go back in 4 weeks. I will stay put until then.

I wasn't aware of the danger with verapamil and taurine. I will be cautious there. Thanks.

pf wishes