VALPROIC ACID

[DUNNYD]

Has anyone tried this for anxiety (valproic Acid ) or for mood stabilizer and if so how was it for you.? Cheers Dunny

[RCA759I]

For anxiety, Valproic Acid (Depakene) is ineffective. In a small number of patients with panic disorder, it may be of some benefit, albeit rarely.

As a mood stabilizer, it is highly effective (in higher dosages), and has been proven to be comparable in efficacy to Lithium. It has no antidepressant properties as Lithium does, however. It is only effective for manic episodes.

Depakene is a bit outdated, as newer preparations of Valproic Acid are now available. These are less likely to induce unpleasant side effects, given their slower release rates. Divalproex Sodium (Depakote) is preferred. Depakote-ER (extended-release) is also available, which leads to even fewer side effects (particularly gastric irritation and nausea).

The typical side effects are confusion, tremor, hair loss and weight gain. The latter two are the main complaints, and have a high occurrence rate. Hair loss may be prevented by taking a vitamin containing selenium and zinc, such as Centrum Silver. Rarely, Valproate can lead to elevated ammonia levels in the brain, or induce liver failure. The risk is greater in combination with other mood stabilizers, such as Tegretol/Trileptal and Lamictal.

Women of child bearing age should not take Depakote unless absolutely necessary. The drug is associated with severe birth defects, in addition to causing ovarian cysts and other female problems.


Ryan

[DUNNYD]

Thanks so much that was really helpful. Good information for myself.Take Care Donna