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Is there a connection between Lupus and Atypical Anti Psychotics?
angie21837 posted:
So, I may have systemic Lupus (SLE) and I have Bipolar. I have had no treatment success with over 25 different medications used for Bipolar symptoms (like depression). The Dr's have been trying Atypical Anti Psychotics recently and they seem to make my mood drastically better. The problem is they cause painful pitting edema within two weeks of starting the med. The edema progressively worsens if I stay on the med. If I try a re-start of the med I swell within two days.
Does anyone know if there is a connection? What can I do? Thanks
Does anyone know if there is a connection? What can I do? Thanks
2 Replies |Watch This Discussion | Report This| Share this:Is there a connection between Lupus and Atypical Anti Psychotics?So, I may have systemic Lupus (SLE) and I have Bipolar. I have had no treatment success with over 25 different medications used for Bipolar symptoms (like depression). The Dr's have been trying Atypical Anti Psychotics recently and they seem to make my mood drastically better. The problem is they cause painful pitting edema within two weeks of starting the med. The edema progressively worsens if I stay on the med. If I try a re-start of the med I swell within two days. <br />Does anyone know if there is a connection? What can I do? Thanks
allie_bf responded:
The only issue of concern that I am aware of is an increased risk of myocarditis associated with some of the drugs, particularly with Clozaril. Whether that extends to all of the drugs in the group, and whether the risk of that inflammatory condition is more of a problem for SLE patients, I have no idea, but it would seem likely. The important thing is to make sure that your two doctors (I am assuming here that the rheumatologist is not writing your Rx's for the bipolar medicine) are coordinating your treatment so that you don't unnecessarily stop your medicine, but that they are each aware of the possibilities of side effects.
Report This| Share this:Is there a connection between Lupus and Atypical Anti Psychotics?The only issue of concern that I am aware of is an increased risk of myocarditis associated with some of the drugs, particularly with Clozaril. Whether that extends to all of the drugs in the group, and whether the risk of that inflammatory condition is more of a problem for SLE patients, I have no idea, but it would seem likely. The important thing is to make sure that your two doctors (I am assuming here that the rheumatologist is not writing your Rx's for the bipolar medicine) are coordinating your treatment so that you don't unnecessarily stop your medicine, but that they are each aware of the possibilities of side effects.
R Swamy Venuturupalli, MD, FACR responded:
Edema is an uncommon side effect of atypical anti-psychotics. You may be able to manage the edema by decreasing salt in your diet (salt contributes to water retention.) Avoid alcohol, tobacco, caffeine and high fat foods, all of which inhibit natural functions. Exercise regularly to increase blood circulation as exercise is a natural diuretic. Try elevating the area that is affected as gravity can keep fluids from collecting in the affected area and avoid a sedentary lifestyle.
Report This| Share this:Is there a connection between Lupus and Atypical Anti Psychotics?<b>Edema is an uncommon side effect of atypical anti-psychotics. You may be able to manage the edema by decreasing salt in your diet (salt contributes to water retention.) Avoid alcohol, tobacco, caffeine and high fat foods, all of which inhibit natural functions. Exercise regularly to increase blood circulation as exercise is a natural diuretic. Try elevating the area that is affected as gravity can keep fluids from collecting in the affected area and avoid a sedentary lifestyle.</b>
