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Depakote

Manufactured by Abbott, Depakote is used primarily for treating seizures. However, medical experts also use this drug for helping control manic episodes that can occur in people with Bipolar Disorder, also known as manic depression, along with preventing migraines. Known generically as valproic acid and divalproex, you will find Depakote sold commercially under additional brands such as Depakote ER, Depacon, and Depakene. Provided in capsule and delayed-released tablet, Depakote has been shown beneficial although most experts agree more studies are needed.

When prescribed and administered to the right people and in the appropriate doses, Depakote is effective. Since Depakote can cause significant and sometimes, fatal liver damage within the first six months, it should never be given to individuals with liver disease or a less than normal functioning liver. The group of individuals at greatest risk includes those under the age of two and individuals on anticonvulsant medication. As the person ages, the risk of liver damage dramatically decreases. Other symptoms associated with Depakote, although not common, include weakness, drowsiness, dizziness, loss of seizure control, low appetite, jaundice, vomiting, swelling of the face, and an overall feeling of being sick. Since some of these side effects could be a sign of a more serious reaction, it is important people notify their doctor immediately.

Additional precautions include slowing of the blood's ability to clot, effect on the brain due to rare genetic abnormalities, increased effect associated with anesthetics and pain medication, and pancreas damage. The more common side effects of Depakote would be difficulty breathing, easy bruising, confusion, insomnia, low appetite, nausea, sore throat, weakness, change in weight, lack of coordination, hair loss, constipation, fever, emotional change, bronchitis, and diarrhea. Depakote has helped many people in controlling seizures and anxiety associated with Bipolar but as with any drug, it is important discuss treatment and concerns with a qualified doctor prior to taking.

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This Week's Bipolar News

Overeating and substance abuse are similar disorders
Los Angeles Times
People with bipolar disorder have higher-than-average rates of obesity and substance abuse. But McIntyre found that the obesity rate in bipolar patients was ...

Club stoush bowls out member
The Advertiser
A MAN suffering from bipolar disorder and depression has been barred from membership at a Sydney bowling club after a clash over club bylaws.

Mom abandons 18-year-old under Nebraska safe-haven law
Richmond Times-Dispatch
LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) -- Police say a woman has abandoned her 18-year-old daughter at a hospital, saying she can't control the girl, in what may be the latest use of Nebraska's unique safe-haven law. The woman told officials at BryanLGH Medical Center West that her daughter, who was adopted, is bipolar and has a learning disability, Assistant Police Chief Jim Peschong said today.

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Featured Article:

Romancing Your Spouse

"Romancing your spouse?" Ok, I can already hear you yelling at me! I know, it's a strange concept, but hear me out. Some of the longest-running marriages have lasted because of this very concept.

You may be thinking that this has nothing to do with Bipolar Disorder, but it does. Even the best of marriages has some strain on it - the pressures of day-to-day living, at the very least. However, Bipolar Disorder puts additional pressure on your marriage because of the issues you have to face in dealing with the disorder, whether you are the survivor or the supporter.

No matter how long you've been married, the suggestions in this article can put some "spark" into your marriage. And if you've only been married a short time, putting these suggestions into place now can help ensure a long, happy, healthy marriage (of course, you will still have to do some hard work yourself to make that happen as well!).

Click here to read the entire aritcle

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