Posted by sherry gomez on March 22, 2001, at 12:00:05
In reply to Re: depakote and lack of energy, posted by Ted on March 19, 2001, at 23:42:43
> Hi Chip,
>
> I take Depakote 500 mg twice a day. Yes, I think most side effects go away after time.
>
> Here are some tips:
>
> 0. Always take with meals. Never break tablets.
>
> 1. Take the first dose at lunchtime and the second dose at dinnertime for the first 3-4 months.
> 2. When you notice decreased drowsiness, switch to breakfast & dinner.
> 3. AVOID ALL ALCOHOL and caffeine. They will make you feel *much* worse.
> 4. Try to get exercise, the more the better. Lethargy is IMHO its worst side effect, and for me it hasnt diminished much in 2 years.
> 5. Make sure you get regular blood tests for the first couple of months now that you have increased your dose. Depakote can cause liver damage, so it is important to make sure everything is fine.
> 6. Depakote has a list of drug interactions, some of them serious, about a mile long. Study them and make sure you don't take any other meds that might exacerbate the problems.
>
> Take care, and good luck. Feel free to write anytime.
>
> Ted
>
> PS: In my personal opinion, Depakote ER is just a marketing gimmic. It really is no different from regular old depakote. Abbott Labs just needed another money maker.
>
>
>
> > I have been on an increased dosage of 1000 mg for
> > two weeks. Since the increase from 750 to 1000mg,
> > I have been very tired and drowsy. Will these side effects subside?>Ted, this is the best advise yet on depakote, I tried it and it helps alot.... I was told to take 1000mg at bedtime and 500mg in the morning and I had trouble staying awake at work
It does help with meals.... although I take Depakote ER... But I cant see any difference
poster:sherry gomez
thread:56919
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20010319/msgs/57170.html