Depakote for Bipolar (Valproate)

by Sarah from Bipolar-Lives
(Florida)

US BRAND NAME: Depakote

GENERIC NAME: Valproate

TYPE: Anticonvulsant and mood stabilizer.

USE: Used to control seizures in the treatment of epilepsy. Also used to treat the manic phase of bipolar disorder.

COMMENTS: Tends to be more effective in males and also less likely to cause weight gain in males. Requires periodic blood work to safeguard against nastier side effects, for example kidney or liver damage. Much less effective than lithium in preventing suicide.

According to Dr Jim Phelps, Depakote is a good choice when you need something strong and fast, are male, are not afraid of weight gain, and are suffering from rapid cycling and significant manic symptoms. Its advantages are that it is fast, a good antimanic, and has a well known risk profile. the disadvantages are that it has little antidepressant effect compared to lithium, can result in rapid weight gains, and carries a PCOS risk in young women.

EVIDENCE: This is a very well established mood stabilizer, second only to lithium. Evidence shows the benefits usually outweigh the harms.

SIDE EFFECTS: Include but not limited to: Diarrhea or constipation, hair loss, difficulty concentrating, nausea, sleepiness, thirst, hand tremors, weight gain.

CAUTIONS: NOT to be used by pregnant women due to risk of birth defects.

Also, According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH):

“Valproic acid may increase levels of testosterone (a male hormone) in teenage girls and lead to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in women who begin taking the medication before age 20. This condition can cause obesity, excess body hair, disruptions in the menstrual cycle, and other serious symptoms. Young girls and women taking valproic acid should be monitored carefully by a doctor.”

Some other symptoms of PCOS are weight gain, and the excess testosterone and other hormonal imbalances in PCOS can lead to excess facial and body hair. PCOS is also associated with a skin condition called acanthosis nigricans where skin can become dark and thick or velvety due to insulin resistance.

Depakote may not be the best choice for you as a teenage girl. Check with both your regular doctor and your psychiatrist about the possibility of PCOS.