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Woody
Administrator
USA
304 Posts |
 Posted - 10/18/2007 : 19:53:35
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Has anyone out there ever taken depakote? If so, are you still? Any side effects? Do they help you deal with Bi-Polar issues? My wife's shrink want her to take them because she's constantly having ups and downs typical for bi-polar people. She's already been diagnosed as being Bi-Polar and has been dealing with it for years. She's been on various meds for it, but they don't seem to be helping her maintain an even keel. Any opinions would be helpful.
Thanks
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iowama
New Member
68 Posts |
Posted - 10/19/2007 : 23:02:27
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Valporic Acid levels are required with Depakote. Prior to and during the medication regiment, it's a simple blood draw, but it's important to follow through for safety and for theraputic levels to be monitored.
There's DepakoteER which, for lots of folks means one dose a day versus multiple daily doses. Personally, I think that's a great option for folks who experience success with Depakote. There's something less intimidating about 'one dose', believe it or not.
Depakote's been effective for some of the patients I work with. There's been less 'side effects' with Depakote than with some of the other 'conventional' medications.
Unfortunately, finding the 'right' medication/combination of medications has always been the 'trick'--for the physician and the patient.
I'll hope for good results for you and your wife, Woody.
I know it's a difficult process to weed through the medications in pursuit of a workable solution......for the patient and for their family.
*sending positive thoughts*
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~~~True ambition is the deep desire to live usefully and walk humbly under the grace of G-d.~~~ |
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Woody
Administrator
USA
304 Posts |
Posted - 10/20/2007 : 22:34:50
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| Thanks for the advice Morey. I'm not sure when her next appointment is, but I will be there to ask questions if necessary. |
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Lin
Junior Member
USA
352 Posts |
Posted - 10/22/2007 : 13:59:24
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My husband took it several years ago for bi-polar. If I remember correctly, it DID help. They just replaced it with newer drugs that did not need the levels checked.
I wish you the best!
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MsB
New Member
USA
80 Posts |
Posted - 11/04/2007 : 23:52:52
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My son Patrick took it for seizures, then went off it at age 17 ( put on at 11) hasn't had a seizures since. he is now 27. I tried it, yet had a reaction, of course I am extremely med sesative. There is routine blood work, for most of these meds may effect organs, just like in lithium..........etc.............good luck, let us know how it is going..
Bobbie |
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Depakote
