Posted by Chloe on July 4, 2002, at 21:44:06
In reply to Re: Cycling-depakote/Li prn???? » Chloe, posted by Ritch on July 3, 2002, at 23:25:14
> Hi,
>
> The Depakote is probably going to work on your rapid cycling a lot better. I got hungrier too when I restarted it a couple of months ago (after being off for over a year). But, I am taking a little bit of Effexor with it and the Effex. kills my appetite really well, so I have actually *lost* some weight in the last few days. I quit Neurontin, BTW. I was feeling so so sleepy during the day. I know a lot of it was the Dep, but I thought, why not kill the N? I was only taking 300mg/day anyhow. There was a withdrawal, although mild. The first thing that I noticed was a big increase in light-sensitivity. Everything was much brighter. Then I felt a little agitated. That passed after a week or two. But, the big benefit was the reduction of the daytime tiredness associated with it. Also, the noradrenergic activity of the Effexor is activating me during the day and is wearing off by bedtime so I can sleep OK. NO early-morning awakenings now for about a week! So, I am on Depakote 250mg+Klonopin .5mg at bedtime, with Effexor 25mg AM. That's it, plus Flax seed oil/Evening Primrose (just 2 caps each/day). If I can maintain this 6-7hr uninterrupted sleep pattern I can keep serious depression away-fingers crossed! I have to put up with this for another six-eight weeks.
>
> MitchWow, maybe you have stumble upon something! I am so glad you are able to sleep through the night uninterrupted. I am jealous! I still have early morning waking, even with the doxepin. (FYI, I don't sleep as well with the doxepin. I wake up at dawn and can't fall back to sleep soundly. I just turn and dream alot. But the lighter am sleep is worth it, since my pain is manageable AND my mood is marketedly better. I was so ugly and explosive on ami, it was really awful LOL)
So going off the N wasn't so bad for you? I notice if I miss my dose by an hour! I get very irritable, unfocused, rushed. How nice that you don't miss it and eveb feel better during the day. It's also impressive that the noradrenergic activity of the Effexor is not making you grouchy, like you reported with noradrenergic meds like Ami or Doxepin.I am so you are feeling well for the time being. I will keep my fingers crossed for you, too.
Oh, one question. Do you take all your depakote at night? Do you think it's better to space it out, to have a more constant blood level? Also, have you heard anything about Depakote ER being better for the notorious side effects of hair loss or weight gain? Hum, I guess that was two questions...Thanx
Chloe
poster:Chloe
thread:110954
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20020628/msgs/111434.html