Posted by bleauberry on January 5, 2012, at 10:37:33
In reply to 1st time depakote user, low dose, posted by jonathandkr on December 31, 2011, at 10:47:36
I had that same good feeling on depakote when I first started it. It didn't last long and then the med pretty much became invisible, except that I got more tired and more sleepy than usual. Not bad, but more than usual. My highest dose over about a 2 month period was 500mg. I think at that dose or lower the weight gain and hair issues are not big concerns.
I can see how it might help with anger/irritibility stuff, but I don't see how it can create activity in a dormant part of the brain.
My sense is that the anger/irritable stuff originates from problems in the adrenal circuits and feedback loops of neurotransmitters. Infections such as lyme, candida, and others can also cause those problems by drowning the neuros and receptors in corrupted toxins and substances that aren't supposed to be there.
Rhodiola is referred to as a stimulant because it normally boosts energy and endurance. The funny thing is that most people who take it for a while report significant anti-anxiety, calmness, grounded during stressful events, and basically I personally think it fits the bill as a better mood stabilizer than any of the man-made anticonvulsants are.
I wouldn't be concerned with your doses of depakote. If you are ever asked to go higher than 500mg, then yes I would be concerned. If in a month's time you determine depakote isn't doing any good for you, then don't waste any more time on it.
poster:bleauberry
thread:1005994
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20111226/msgs/1006420.html