Evening...I have had BP  for 15 years..will I ever be able to get off these meds...Effexor..Lithium...Klonipin..I am 40 years old and  my life has been wonderful.  Is there a chance to get off these meds?   Thank you.

Dear Ms. P' -- 
No good answer here.  One comes to mind that I hope won't seem too ridiculous:  if life was clearly better on med's; and clearly worse off them; would it make much difference about the pills?  I guess that's what you're asking, eh?  Many of my patients ask; then we try ultra-slow tapers of each agent, looking for the absolute minimum.  No alternatives beyond that at present. 

Dr. Phelps


Published July, 2001