Depakote dosage...

I started Depakote two weeks ago. I've been very reluctant to take this med because I've heard the side effects are wicked. The new headache doc I'm seeing started me at 250mg intending to go up to 500mg or even 700mg if needed. The intention to be on the lowest dose possible still obtaining the best results.

So far I've been doing great at the 250mg. Migraines have been less frequent and controllable. I have not had to go to the ER for rescue meds since starting the Depakote. Side effects are tolerable...some stomach pain and nausea. No weight gain.

I'm tempted to stay at the 250mg level. The warnings and dangers I've read about Depakote scare me....if I can get by at this low of a dose should I? Inspite of the doctor insisting I be at 500mg?

BTW I am tapering off of Topamax....anyone know when I'm going to stop feeling the side effects from it?

I would stay where you feel comfortable if it is working. When they raised mine I developed a tremor which was intolerable (I couldn't keyboard and computer use is a big part of my job). Once the tremor started we couldn't get it to go away until I was way below therapeutic levels.

Just my experience with it.

My liver enzymes were elevated after 6 months on a low dose-I think it was 100 mg.