Posted by HappyGirl on April 10, 2005, at 11:47:48
In reply to Depakote (ER) and poor sleep ... Dose timing?, posted by cache-monkey on April 10, 2005, at 1:19:11
Hi:
When I was rx'ed Depakote for the first time, ... from 500 mg. to 1,250 mg., it made me REALLY sleepy not only nightly also even day-time. Then, I recall, ... yes, I slept a lot, around 12 hours to even 15 hours except eat and walk/exercise(for my brain-chemical production's sake). In any case, the Depakote was like 'sleeping pill' for me, rather a mood-stabilizer to control my Bp.However, some of Bper's with Depakote has 'sleeping' problem like you, ... then, it is NOT a very first time to hear/read this. In my guess, ... those who get 'sedating' effect from the Depakote has MORE 'depressive' type of Bp, while people with sleeping problem seems to have 'hypomanic' Bp. But, this is my VERY 'personal' opinion/view.
In regard to 'feel groggy' during the day, ... in my hunch, ... you may still has 'depression' that is not controlled by the Depakote. This is also my personal experience on Depakote, this med. is NOT a 'potent' M.S. to begin with, rather is good for 'milder' case of Bp. Thus, Depakote is widely rx'ed as a very first-line M.S. for newly dx'ed with Bp. Actually, it didn't help my Bp except a sleep/rest for calming me down, since my case has been a moderate to severe case of Bp, mixed/ultra-rapid Bp.
In my suggestion, ... try to take Depakote ER three to four hours before going to the bed. Or, try to switch a regular type of Depakote which has immediate effect to make you sleepy. Along with Depakote, you may need some form of A.D. or a sedating med., if persistent. Because, 'Sleep'/rest is one of critical components to get/feel well.
H.G.
poster:HappyGirl
thread:482247
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20050408/msgs/482351.html