I am a 40, female and am going to be starting Depakote tomorrow. This is the next step after being unsuccessful with a switch from Tegretol to Lamictal and then to Tegretol and Lamictal. I also took Dilantin before. My neurologist gave me the run-down on potential side-effects. The liver function is an issue with a lot of drugs. I guess I have to be careful, blood tests & keep an eye on how I am feeling. But I see one woman gained 50 pounds and that is incredibly discouraging. I was also told about potential hair loss too.
Hay anyone experienced these things from Depakote?
I took Depakote for a few years, between my 18 and 22 age, and hated it if I can be honest with you. I should say that I am 30 now. The think that dosage was too high for me and my hands would shake a lot. I also gained 30 pounds which upset me very much. Luckily I got off of it; the weight was gone in a few months. However my friend took Dilantin and Tegretol too. In fact, she claims that Depakote is a picnic compared to the hell I went through on Tegretol. There are other meds if Depakote don’t work.
I am currently talking Depakote and have for several years now. I have gained alot of weight and am having a hard time taking it off. Eventhough, I do alot of exercise and try to watch what I am eating. I am also having a hard time with anxiety that I have never had before.