How to Use Depakote to Treat Bipolar Disorder
Depakote is an anti-seizure medication that is also prescribed to treat mania episodes in bipolar disorder. The medication acts as a mood stabilizer. Depakote is available only by prescription. The exact dosage of Depakote needed to stabilize mood is different for each person. Your doctor will work closely with you to determine the appropriate dosage for you.
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Instructions
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Take your daily dose of Depakote as prescribed by your doctor. Doctors commonly prescribe an initial total daily dosage of 750 mg. taken in two doses--once in the morning and once at night. Depakote may cause upset stomachs in some people. If you experience an upset stomach, take each dose on a full stomach. The upset stomach usually subsides with continued use as your body becomes accustomed to the medication.
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Increase your daily dosages of Depakote as prescribed by your doctor. Your doctor will increase your dosage according to your body weight and mood results. There is no set dose that works for every person. Your doctor will rapidly increase your dosages over the first two weeks at a rate according to your body weight. The final dosage amount will be determined according to the mood stabilization effects of the medication. Some people require higher dosages than others before they experience satisfactory results.
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Continue to take your maintenance dosages of Depakote once your doctor and you have found a dosage that works well for you.
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Regularly visit your doctor to take lab tests to check your liver function. Your body metabolizes the majority of the Depakote through your liver. In rare cases, the medication can cause liver failure. Lab tests are important because they can detect changes in your liver function before a serious problem arises.
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Contact your doctor immediately if you experience suicidal thoughts, depression, severe mood changes, confusion, hallucinations, vomiting or other severe illness that you believe is caused by the medication. When your doctor prescribes Depakote, he will give you full list of symptoms to watch out for.
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Tips & Warnings
Bothersome side effects of Depakote usually disappear after the first few weeks of using the medication. Speak with your doctor if the side effects do not go away or if you find the side effects too uncomfortable. For best results, take your daily dosages on schedule as prescribed by your doctor to maintain a stable level of the medication in your bloodstream, which makes the medication more effective.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not meant to act as or replace medical advice. Only a doctor can determine which medications and dosages are right for you. Do not drink alcohol or take asprin while taking Depakote. Ask your doctor before taking any new medications, even if over the counter, while taking Depakote. Depakote causes skin sensitivity--wear sunscreen to avoid sunburn. Do not stop taking Depakote suddenly without first being advised by your doctor. Depakote is usually gradually reduced to minimize the chance of serious side effects, instead of suddenly stopped. Your doctor can advise you about the best way to stop taking the medication.
