switching from Depakote to Lamictal

[guitarlady]

Hello everyone, My Dr wants to switch me from Depakote to Lamictal. I have been on Depakote for 18 years and it has been working. The problem is it causes osteoporosis and that is something that can be a big concern.Also the weight gain. I have JME since I was 15.I am now 50. I took a few other medications but always ended up having a seizure or 2 along the way. It is very scary to me. I work in the medical profession doing mammography So I am with patients all day long. My fear is it will not work. Has anyone been through this and can you tell me how you made out. I know there is a possibility of a rash, headaches, and possible weight loss. Thank you...

 

[136scout]

Hi there, just came across this post.
I am curious how your med switch went? I went through that same change in 2013 and ended up losing 50lbs and became the leanest of my life but then had a seizure at the end of 2015. I had been seizure-free for over 20 years on Depakote before my switch to Lamictal. Been back on Depakote ever since and have gained almost all the weight back! No seizures though.

 

[Porkette]

Hi guitarlady,

I was on Depakote for many yrs. and my body became used to it and it no longer worked for me. I lost 70 lbs. while on the drug but after I went of the drug I was later put on lamictal but I was only on it for 4 days because I broke out with a rash from the drug. My skin started to itch and I had red spots on my skin I was then put on Diamox and that has worked great for me. I've had seizures for 48 yrs. now. I wish you the best of luck and May God Bless You!

Sue