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Is Creative Thinking Hampered After Taking Lithium, Lexapro And Zyprexa?

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Posted on Mon, 26 Oct 2015
Question: Hi,

I recently switched psychiatrists after my previous doc was "my way or the highway" in terms of treatment. Even after I expressed problems with meds, he insisted I stay on them.

Fast forward to two months after I taped myself off Lithium, Lexapro and Zyprxa. I am sleeping better, awake alert, eat a fair amount and can concentrate when at work again.

The only piece of the puzzle left seemingly, 1. How do I approach a new PCP regarding my run ins with a psychiatrist? I specifically would like to meet a new PCP to get my serotonin, dopamine and testosterone levels done. 2. Are (creative) writing problems common after taking such medications? I have a BA in journalism and am considering grad school as the solution to my writing problems.
doctor
Answered by Dr. Seikhoo Bishnoi (44 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
The medicines might impair the focus in some individuals

Detailed Answer:
Hello, Welcome to Health Care Magic

I can understand your concern. Coming directly to your doubts.

If you didn't like the old psychiatrist then you can visit a new PCP and can explain your problems in detail. Mention the problems you had due to the medicines and get a referral to a new psychiatrist. Even if you are doing good then Psychological intervention can also help.

Yes during the therapy some individuals might develop symptoms like lack of focus, drowsiness which might cause impairment in creative writing. But since you have stopped the medicines this problem will reduce in about 4-6 weeks.

Thanks, Hope this helps you, if you have more doubts you can ask again.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
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Follow up: Dr. Seikhoo Bishnoi (10 hours later)
Hi Dr. Bishnoi,

I believe you answered one of my questions before.

Anyhow, things are going well. Everything except for the writing. I am looking to work with a writing instructor for help.

I am in the process of finding a new PCP to get testing done.
doctor
Answered by Dr. Seikhoo Bishnoi (2 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
Practice one thing again and again

Detailed Answer:
Hello again and thanks for asking a follow up

Yes, we have interacted earlier also. Thanks.

Find a writing instructor or practice one thing again and again. Wait for few days and your symptoms will decrease. Try to remain relaxed. Don't overthink about the problem. These side effects will go away with time.

Thanks, still have more doubts please ask again. Take care
Note: For further guidance on mental health, Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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Answered by
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Dr. Seikhoo Bishnoi

Psychiatrist

Practicing since :2007

Answered : 5193 Questions

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Is Creative Thinking Hampered After Taking Lithium, Lexapro And Zyprexa?

Brief Answer: The medicines might impair the focus in some individuals Detailed Answer: Hello, Welcome to Health Care Magic I can understand your concern. Coming directly to your doubts. If you didn't like the old psychiatrist then you can visit a new PCP and can explain your problems in detail. Mention the problems you had due to the medicines and get a referral to a new psychiatrist. Even if you are doing good then Psychological intervention can also help. Yes during the therapy some individuals might develop symptoms like lack of focus, drowsiness which might cause impairment in creative writing. But since you have stopped the medicines this problem will reduce in about 4-6 weeks. Thanks, Hope this helps you, if you have more doubts you can ask again.