Posted by chip on March 27, 2001, at 12:11:51
In reply to Re: depakote and lack of energy » chip, posted by Sunnely on March 25, 2001, at 19:17:09
> Hi Chip,
>
> Have the following blood tests done:
>
> 1. Blood level of valproic acid (valproate)
>
> 2. Liver function tests (liver enzymes)
>
> 3. Blood ammonia level
>
> 4. Blood carnitine (total and free) levels
>
> The "therapeutic" blood level of valproic acid for bipolar disorder is between 50-125 ug/ml (microgram per milliliter). Of course, as the dose is increased, the blood level also increases. Except for transient increases in symptoms (e.g., fatigue, drowsiness), blood levels between these levels are generally tolerated. However, there are some people who do experience distressing side effects even within these range of blood levels.
>
> 2. Although not common in adults, Depakote can induce hepatotoxicity (liver toxicity). Extreme fatigue and drowsiness, especially if accompanied by gastrointestinal symptoms such as anorexia (lack of appetite) and right upper (abdominal) quadrant pain, may point to liver problem.
>
> 3. Marked fatigue and drowsiness, especially if accompanied by mental confusion may point to an elevated blood level of ammonia. Depakote can impair ammonia clearance. Blood ammonia level can be elevated despite normal levels of liver enzymes.
>
> 4. Similar to elevated blood ammonia, marked fatigue and drowsiness may be indicative of carnitine deficiency. Some people are born with a defect in the enzyme that forms carnitine. People with this enzyme deficiency can develop marked fatigue and drowsiness when given Depakote. Giving Carnitor (levo-carnitine) can prevent this from occurring.
>
> +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
>
> > I have been on an increased dosage of 1000 mg for
> > two weeks. Since the increase from 750 to 1000mg,
> > I have been very tired and drowsy. Will these side effects subside?thank you everyone for the good information
poster:chip
thread:56919
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20010327/msgs/57677.html