Ask the Therapist
Depakote and Weight Gain
I am a 37 year old female that was
started on Depakote to help with migraines. It seems to be working fairly
well in that arena. Before the Depakote, I was taking Topamax, and had
lost approximately 20 pounds over the last 7 months. I needed to lose
weight so it was a blessing. However, the Topomax didn't seem to help with
the migraines, so we are now trying the Depakote. The first several weeks
went off fairly well, with no major changes in weight. All of a sudden in
just over a week's time, I've gained 10 pounds! It seems to be water
weight gain, as I feel puffy and uncomfortable. However, I've also noticed
that my appetite seems to have exploded. A few hours after I've finished a
meal, I start to feel hungry again. (This was definitely not a problem I
had when taking the Topamax) No other major problems have occurred.
The headaches are down, but this weight gain is
definitely something I can't afford to have, especially if it will continue!
I'm very concerned that this is a direct link to the Depakote. Is it?
And, if so, what can I do to stop this upward movement?
Regrettably, yes. I have seen explosive weight gain in many individuals taking this class of drug. With Depakote, it is, as you surmise, more about what it does to the metabolism, than the effect it is having on actual body weight.
Two suggestions...one is, watch what you eat. Eat smaller portions, more often. Lay off the 'junk carbs', like fries and chips, etc., and up your protein...more fish, more meat and vegetables. Also, oddly, one of the best ways to manage weight and to lose water weight is to drink more water...up your still water (not carbonated, it's bad for your bones) intake to 64+ oz. a day.
