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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
bob@dr-bob.orgShown: posts 1 to 6 of 6. This is the beginning of the thread.
Posted by jdgjdg on March 18, 2004, at 22:11:51
I've read a few threads about this, but would like some more input. I have been on Depakote for about a month for bpI. I just can't seem to stop eating and am gaining weight rapidly. My pdoc said she would switch me if it got out of control, and obviously it has. I think she was thinking of Topamax. Has anyone else switched from Depakote to Topamax because of weight gain and how successful were you?
Posted by bookgurl99 on March 19, 2004, at 8:11:17
In reply to Gaining weight on Depakote, posted by jdgjdg on March 18, 2004, at 22:11:51
Hey,
I haven't gained a significant amount of weight in about 6 months on a low dose of Depakote (500 mgs), but I've noticed that I experience hunger differently. For example, if I start eating somthing yummy -- say Pringles crackers -- then my desire for more is much stronger than it would be if I was on another med. If I don't have the first bite, then I'm all in the clear.
I've been experimenting with taking chromium, which regulates blood sugar. It seems to help.
Posted by jdgjdg on March 19, 2004, at 8:18:22
In reply to Re: Gaining weight on Depakote, posted by bookgurl99 on March 19, 2004, at 8:11:17
I've noticed that as well. Once I start eating, I can't seem to stop. I'm on a higher dose(1500mg)maybe that has something to do with it. Thanks for the reply. Jenn
Posted by lauram on March 19, 2004, at 12:34:43
In reply to Re: Gaining weight on Depakote, posted by jdgjdg on March 19, 2004, at 8:18:22
I started 1250mg on Depakote nine months ago. Due to a weight gain of 25lbs I am now tapering off the Depakote. I started Lamictal and slowly titrated up to 200mgs. I've also experienced the desire to eat more once I begin a meal.
I have noticed some weight loss since reducing my Depakote to 500mg. I should be off of the Depakote entirely next month. While the Depakote helped my BP2 symptoms the weight gain and hair loss were too much for me to handle. The Lamictal is supposed to be weight neutral but I will have to see. Good Luck.
Posted by HappyGirl on March 19, 2004, at 17:06:13
In reply to Re: Gaining weight on Depakote, posted by jdgjdg on March 19, 2004, at 8:18:22
Hi:
>>> I'm on a higher dose(1500mg)maybe that has something to do with it. <<<--- Standard dosage of Depakoe is 750mg. that I took at the beginning of my Bipolar II, then the dosage, 1500 mg. quite 'Mega' dosage to me. However, seeing as your dx'ed with Bipolar I, the 'High' dosage is totally understandable.
As you quote, the higher dosage you're on, the more likely you get side-effect from the Depakote, 'Weight Gain.'
In my case, after two and a half years later, the effectiveness of Depakote ceased completely no matter how higher dosage I went to.
In regard to 'good appetite,' I miss 'hungry-urge,' because after on Wellbutrin SR 300 mg., I lost the feelings for 'hunger' that is quite good sensation in comparison to 'no feelings for any foods,' even after good hours' exercise.
BTW, I didn't gain a weight, except a few pounds at the last stage of Depakote regimen. That's something to do with my 'nostalgiastic feelings' towards Depakote.
H.G.
Posted by joebob on March 19, 2004, at 19:04:27
In reply to Gaining weight on Depakote, posted by jdgjdg on March 18, 2004, at 22:11:51
This is the end of the thread.
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