Posted by Krazy Kat on December 13, 2001, at 18:44:49
In reply to Re: How harmful effects of Depakote? - lab tests » Krazy Kat, posted by wendy b. on December 13, 2001, at 14:50:17
Windy Wendy:
To add to Mouse's post:
It's a tube. Last time, the woman took three tubes worth and almost killed me. I don't say that to be discouraging - it's just that some lab techs are better than others. I'm not going back to her again.
If it's an easy draw, I do fine. Last time, I almost fainted, nausea, what you said. Ick.
I always pinch myself really hard while it's going on as a distraction. That sounds healthy. ;)
My tests have been White Blood Cell Count, Liver Enzymes, and Depakote level. Like Mouse said, I don't think the Dep. level matters - mine is low for taking 1000 MG, but it has helped me a great deal. Luckily my pdoc agrees since at 1500 mg I was flattened.
Since I seem to be at a stable dose, I have to have tests done again in a month, then three months, then every six months, I believe. I don't think the Depakote level changes, like Lithium does - I think they're just monitoring your liver and cell count.
Frankly having the tests has made me feel better, since they have been fine.
You get used to the blood draw after a few. But if it's particularly uncomfortable, your lab tech sucks.
Never watch it being done.
:)
- K.
poster:Krazy Kat
thread:86621
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20011213/msgs/86840.html