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What can I take instead of Depakote?

What can I take instead of Depakote?

Valerian root could function as a low potency alternative for more traditional medications like Depakote or GABA (a neuropeptide in your central nervous system that has depressant effects). GABA-enhancing products might serve as an alternative to gabapentin (a prescription mood stabilizer).

How do I not gain weight on Depakote?

Here are some ways to lose weight gained due to medication use:

  1. Switch to a different medication. The first strategy to consider involves changing medications.
  2. Lower medication dosage.
  3. Limit portion sizes.
  4. Exercise.
  5. Eat more protein.
  6. Talk to a dietitian.
  7. Avoid alcohol.
  8. Get enough sleep.

What psych meds make you lose weight?

The newest result for psychiatry is Contrave, approved last month by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for weight loss. This medication is a combination of naltrexone and bupropion extended release. Contrave is the third medication approved by the FDA for weight loss.

Does Depakote always cause weight gain?

Mood stabilizers used to treat bipolar disorder include lithium (Lithobid), valproic acid (Depakene), divalproex sodium (Depakote), carbamazepine (Tegretol, Equetro, others) and lamotrigine (Lamictal). All of these medications are known to increase the risk of weight gain except lamotrigine.

Is there a natural alternative to Depakote?

Talk therapy is well documented as an effective natural alternative to Depakote or other medications, with many genres of psychological therapy to explore. Using complementary health approaches is becoming increasingly popular in the US and around the world.

Is there a bipolar medication that doesn’t cause weight gain?

Most mood stabilizers used to treat bipolar disorder are known to cause weight gain. The way a mood stabilizer affects your weight depends on many things, such as how severe your disorder is and what other conditions you have. Unlike most mood stabilizers, though, Lamictal is less likely to cause weight gain.

Which antipsychotic has least weight gain?

Antipsychotics with a lower risk of weight gain are:

  • Aripiprazole (Abilify)
  • Asenapine (Saphris)
  • Brexipiprazole (Rexulti)
  • Haloperidol (Haldol)
  • Lurasidone (Latuda)
  • Ziprasidone (Geodon)

What bipolar medication causes weight loss?

Topiramate led to substantial weight loss in patients with bipolar disorders in these studies. The efficacy of topiramate as an adjunct treatment in patients with mood disorders has been demonstrated.

Why do bipolar meds make you fat?

Most bipolar drugs cause weight gain rather than weight loss. For example, several of them increase your blood sugar level, which can lead to weight gain. Others affect your energy level. During manic episodes, you typically may not sleep much and may burn off lots of energy.

What is the best diet for someone with bipolar disorder?

Eating a balance of protective, nutrient-dense foods. These foods include fresh fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains, lean meats, cold-water fish, eggs, low-fat dairy, soy products, and nuts and seeds.

What is the safest medication for bipolar disorder?

Lithium stands out for its preventative effects in bipolar disorder, but it also has important benefits outside of the manic-depressive symptom lists. It is the only mood stabilizer that significantly reduces the risk of suicide, and it reduces mortality in other ways as well.

How does Depakote make you gain weight?

Depakote also has a tendency to increase your appetite, which can lead to weight gain. A slow-release version of the drug was manufactured to allay the increased appetite that is common with Depakote; however, it is a pricier option.

How can you lose weight while on Depakote?

Along with consistent exercise, follow a healthy diet plan to further increase your chances of losing weight. Eat a healthy balance of protein, carbohydrates and fat. If you experience any adverse reactions or develop a health condition while on Depakote, consult your doctor immediately.

Will I lose weight if you stop taking Depakote?

Weight loss: Since many people gain weight when they take Depakote, it should be obvious that they are going to lose it when they stop taking it. If you gained weight while on the drug, you should eventually lose most of it as time continues to pass. The weight loss will not be immediate, but should occur gradually.

Can you get rid of Depakote weight gain with exercise?

Like many medications, Depakote can potentially cause several side effects, including weight gain. Exercising, however, will certainly help manage weight gain, but first consult your doctor to ensure you establish the proper regimen for your circumstances.