NOTE: NONE OF THIS INFORMATION IS INTENDED AS MEDICAL ADVICE! I AM NOT A DOCTOR!
Depakote is a brand name for valproate. Also available as Depakane.
USE:
Depakote is number one perscription, tied with lithium for the treatment of bipolar disorder. Usual dose is 500-3,000 mg a day. Like lithium, blood levels must monitored during use.
SIDE EFFECTS:
From Surviving Manic Depression:
Decreased concentration, sleepiness, possible liver damage, hair loss, decreased platelet count, and weight gain/increased appetite.
Some symptoms appear at the start of medication therapy and fade over time.
written on July 14, 2004; modified on July 14, 2004.