Upping Your Dose of Saphris: Addressing Sleep Troubles and Elevated Heart Rate

Recently, you've experienced some concerning side effects after your psychiatrist increased your dose of Saphris, a medication commonly used to treat schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. You've noticed trouble sleeping and a heart rate in the 90s. Facing these issues, it's important to consider the appropriate steps you should take.

Immediate Contact Is Key

Given the nature of your symptoms, it is crucial to contact your doctor right away. The potential for serious complications, such as an elevated heart rate becoming irregular, is significant. Ignoring these symptoms for two months can pose unnecessary health risks. Therefore, it's advisable to reach out to your healthcare provider immediately to address these concerns and prevent potential worsening of your condition.

Managing Your Dose and Seeking Professional Help

If you decide to contact your doctor, consider cutting back on the current dose yourself in the short term. However, this decision should be made in collaboration with your healthcare provider. Be sure to inform your doctor about your symptoms and discuss possible adjustments to your treatment plan. Your doctor can guide you on the best steps to take and may recommend a different medication or dosage.

Understanding the Importance of Regular Monitoring and Communication

It's important to continuously monitor your heart rate and report any changes to your doctor. The heart rate should be relatively regular, with minor variations due to natural factors such as breathing. Changes in your heart rate can be a sign of various issues, including the onset of a manic episode, and it's crucial to address them promptly.

Additionally, consider discussing your symptoms with a pharmacist. Pharmacists are well-versed in drug interactions and can provide valuable insights that can help in managing your condition. With this information, you can return to your family doctor for a proper evaluation and prescription change if necessary.

Everyone's response to psychiatric medications is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another. It's important to communicate openly with your healthcare providers about any new symptoms or concerns. In my personal experience, Saphris did not suit my bipolar type 1 condition, leading to extreme fatigue and a manic episode with a psychotic episode. High heart rates and trouble sleeping can be early signs of a manic episode and should be taken seriously.

Proactive Medication Management

Always contact your doctor with any new side effects of medication. This will allow them to assess whether the side effects are temporary or signal a more serious issue. They can then adjust your medication and monitoring plans accordingly. Keeping your healthcare providers informed is key to managing your condition effectively and ensuring your safety.

By staying proactive and maintaining open communication with your healthcare providers, you can address any concerns promptly and ensure that you receive the best possible care. Regular monitoring, timely communication, and seeking professional advice are essential steps in managing the side effects of psychiatric medications effectively.