Depakote vs Topamax

[ameller]

Hello and thank you for reading my post. I started depakote two months ago for anger management and mood swings. I really love it, but have already gained 7 lbs. I just lost 35 before I started these pills and I really don't want to gain anymore. My doctor recommended switching me to Topamax. After reading about it, it seems like it is more for depression. I am not depressed at all. Just get real bitchy, real quick. LOL. Anyway, can anyone tell me if you have experienced good results on Topamax for the same issues? Any help you can provide would be greatly appreciated. I am just really not sure if I should switch or just stay on the depakote and deal with the weight.

[cocoleli]

Are they offering any other meds besides those too. None of them really seem to work that well for me. But in your case if depakote it working for you try to stick with it. As for topamax I had a bad experience Suffered memory loss. Did you try asking your doctor is there anything he can do for the weight gain. If there is please let me know lol

[RubyShooz]

I gained 30 lbs in 2 months on depakote -- doc took me off it and now on Lamictal and Lexapro.  No problems so far, I'm feeling OK, and have lost 24 lbs in 3 months, still losing weight.

[syddiesmom]

I have been on both Depakote and Topamax, I have gained on Depakote, but I like the way I feel on it better. With the Topamax, I had problems with word recollection, confusion and disorientation. BUT...I did not gain weight.  I had rather be chubby than on Topamax.

[LeftCoastChick]

A lot of times people emotionally eat, the drug itself doesn't cause the weight gain. If you are vigilant with your diet, you won't gain the weight. I gained a little when I started Lamictal and Seroquel, but for the most part, I stay away from sweets and my emotiona eating like I used to do. Actually after 3 months on Lamictal, I dropped a bit of weight because I didn't need to emotionally eat. Depakote for many works exceedingly well, so personally if you are able to tolerate it, stick with it, and watch your processed food intakes including take-out foods.