Is depakote as effective as seroquel I am switching to depakote because I have migraines. Is it as effective at treating depression as seroquel is What can I expect during the transition?

Answer 1

What sort of depression do you have? Neither of these drugs should be used for regular depression (Major Depression). In fact, I am of the opinion they shouldn't be used long term for anything, for 2 reasons:

1) They cause permanent changes in the brain and leave you worse off than when you started. A recent study on schizophrenics is a good example. 2 groups were studied, one taking antipsychotics (depakote / seroquel), and the other taking no medication. For the first 3 years the group taking the medication did better, but after 3 years the group not taking anything was better off, and everyone who stopped taking medication was much worse.

2) They cause tardive dyskinesia, a form of permanent brain damage, in many people who take them. This is uncontrollable shaking and jerky movements, similar to Parkinsons Disease, and it never goes away. By the time you realize you have it, it is too late.

Have you tried therapy? Many psychiatrists are far too quick to prescribe when there are other, better alternatives. Medication is easier for the doctor, but not necessarily better for the patient. If you are bipolar and absolutely have to take something, you might want to look into taking lithium.

@Matthewterhune - if you`re an idiot please stop responding and scaring people for nothing moron. And now to go back to the question it is very hard to tell. If you`re bipolar 2 both are used to treat mania symphtoms but Seroquel is better for the depressive state then Depakote. You should wait and see. If you didn`t experience weight gain on Seroquel you won`t experience any one Depakote either. I wish you all the best