Question:
Is there an increase or decrease in psychotropic medications after surgery?

I am diagnosed with Bipolar Depression and take four (4) psychotropic medications. Does anyone know whether I'll have to increase or perhaps decrease the dosages after surgery?    — Christina K. (posted on February 19, 2002)

February 19, 2002
I can't believe you would ask us about something only your doctor should answer.
   — [Anonymous]

February 19, 2002
I don't know the answer,but I wanted to tell 'anonymous' that he or she should chill out. MANY questions on this Q&A list would be better answered by a medical professional. You could have just said 'call your doctor'. There's no reason to be sarcastic.
   — garw

February 19, 2002
Hi, I'm post-op rny 4 months. My psychiatrist said I may have to increase my dosages because of the surgery but I forgot to ask why. I'm getting blood levels of Tegretol and nortriptyline this month to check it out. It probably depends on the person but many psychotropic meds can now be measured by blood levels. Good luck
   — [Anonymous]

February 19, 2002
Anon: We ask questiond here to find out members personal experiences with certain problems. Of course the poster will discuss this with her Dr., but all of this is so new. I'm sure there is little written for the doctor to research. I like to go to the doctor armed with all of the experiences I can and am very grateful to all who share.
   — faybay

February 19, 2002
HALF OF THE POSTINGS & QUESTIONS ON THIS POSTING BOARD CAN BE CONSIDERED "SHOULD ONLY ASK YOUR DOCTOR SUCH A QUESTION" - scheeze. If I knew the answer to your question, I'd answer it just to sound incredibly smart... :)....but I don't. Just had to comment on the rude statement someone made.
   — Lisa J.

February 19, 2002
Again, I have to agree with Gar on this one. Why is anonymous (which I can't stand the fact already that this chicken is afraid to put his/her name but is so willing to insult)being so mean to this poor woman. She was not asking for specific dosages, she was only asking if they might work differently. Not an illogical question at all considering many of my meds work differently post surgery. I say that this is a valid question and you will actually "possibly" have to increase them depending on your diagnosis, right after surgery. Depression seems to hit many right after surgery due to the anesthesia and the new lifestyle. You'll do fine but I would certainly designate "someone" to let you know if you seem alittle "off". Sometimes, those of us who suffer from mental illnesses ie:depression etc, can't see that things are changing for us. Get someone you trust and listen to that person and your inner self. You will know if something isn't working right. Good luck
   — Barbara H.