I am 40 years old and have been diagnosed with type 2 Bi-polar disorder along with severe depression. I also suffer from chronic lower back pain due to 2 degenerating disks. My medications are:
Morphine Sulfate 100mg x2
Vicodin 7.5/500 x2
Cyclobenzaprine 10mg x1
Seroquel 200mg x1
Pristiq 50mg x1
Vyvanse 50mg x1

My question is this, (and it will be very difficult to answer, I apologize) How does the Bi-polar disorder effect the chronic pain issue and how does the chronic pain effect the Bi-polar disorder? I have no doubt that they work against each other. My current medications for the depression and Bi-polar are not working. I am with a new phychiatrist and he is not really aggressive with medications. I don't mind that, but I have GOT to find the right combination to feel better. I am not working right now and am trying to decide whether to apply for disability or wait and see if we can get to the right combination of medications so that I can return to work. In my current situation, there is no way I could hold down a job. This in itself is an extremely stressful situation and does not help matters. I will gladly accept any advise I can get.
Thank you.