Depakote side effects weight gain

Depakote side effects and safety information

Depakote treats a variety of conditions but it can produce side effects such as tremors, weight changes, hair loss, and depression

Depakote is a brand-name prescription medicine for the generic drug divalproex sodium or valproic acid. Depakote is in a class of medications called antiepileptic drugs, or anticonvulsants. It works by calming hyperactivity in the brain. It is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to prevent and treat seizures, especially in people with epilepsy. Depakote is generally recommended for adults and children 10 years of age and older. It is also used to treat manic episodes associated with bipolar disorder, and to prevent migraine headaches.

Depakote has a black box warning for hepatotoxicity and should not be taken by people with liver problems. It can cause serious pancreas damage, so people with a history of pancreatitis should not take it. Pregnant women should not take Depakote either. Like any other medication, it is important to be aware of Depakote side effects and its interactions. Let’s look at what you need to know before taking Depakote.

RELATED: What is Depakote?

Common side effects of Depakote

Like all medications, Depakote may cause minor and temporary side effects. In patients taking Depakote, the most common side effects include:

Headache
Nausea
Tiredness
Swelling of the arms and legs
Loss of appetite
Abdominal pain
Skin rash
Weight gain
Vomiting
Weakness
Hair loss
Tremor
Diarrhea
Blurred vision
Increased appetite
Decreased platelet count
Confusion
Lightheadedness

Tremors

Tremors are a known side effect of Depakote. According to a study, about 4% of patients taking Depakote report developing a tremor, which may affect the hands, arms, head, or eyelids. In rare cases, the lower body is affected. The tremor may not affect both sides of the body equally. If patients develop a tremor and it is affecting their ability to function or their quality of life, they should discuss dosage options with their healthcare provider. Tests may be done to rule out other causes of a tremor.

Weight changes

Depakote often causes an increased appetite, which can lead to weight gain. People taking it to treat migraine headaches may have decreased serotonin levels, which can also lead to cravings and overeating. Depakote can also cause drowsiness, which may decrease activity level. If weight gain is a concern, patients are encouraged to eat a balanced diet and engage in regular physical activity. If the weight gain continues, patients can discuss other medication options with their healthcare provider.

Rash

A mild rash is a common side effect of Depakote and is often not of concern. However, patients should seek immediate medical attention if they develop fever, a red or purple skin rash, hives, sores in the mouth, blistering and peeling of the skin, swelling of the lymph nodes, swelling of the face, eyes, lips, tongue, or throat, trouble swallowing or breathing, as these may be signs of a serious allergic reaction.

Serious side effects of Depakote

Some side effects of Depakote are more serious and may require medical attention. These include:

Pancreatitis
Severe liver damage
Suicidal thoughts and depression
Severe rash
Rapid weight gain
Elevated ammonia in the blood
Hypothermia (low body temperature)
Bleeding problems

Depression

Patients taking anticonvulsants for any reason may develop depression, and people with a history of mental illness are at an increased risk of worsening depression while taking Depakote. Patients should talk to their healthcare provider if they notice an increase in depressed thoughts, suicidal thoughts, new or worsening irritability, new or worsening anxiety, panic attacks, trouble sleeping, dangerous impulses, or other changes in their mood or behaviors.

Other Depakote side effects

Hair loss

According to one study, Depakote has been reported to cause hair loss in less than 3% of patients taking it. It is primarily reported in women who are between 40 and 49 years old. If patients are concerned about Depakote and hair loss, they should discuss this with their healthcare provider. Lowering the dosage of Depakote may alleviate this symptom.

Sexual side effects

Depakote interferes with the endocrine system and, according to one study, can cause reproductive and sexual dysfunction in both men and women. The most common sexual side effects were erectile dysfunction and decreased libido. If patients experience bothersome sexual side effects, they should discuss this with their healthcare provider.

How long do Depakote side effects last?

Most side effects of Depakote are temporary and will go away on their own after the medication is stopped. Since everyone metabolizes medications differently, their bodies will adjust to side effects in their own way. Most common side effects, including nausea and tiredness, will improve after two to four months of taking Depakote.

Depakote contraindications and warnings

Liver damage

Depakote should not be taken by people with compromised liver function. It can cause serious liver damage, especially in children younger than two years of age. Children younger than 2 years and patients with hereditary mitochondrial disease are at a considerably increased risk of developing fatal hepatotoxicity. Patients should tell their healthcare provider immediately if they experience stomach pain, dark urine, yellowing of the eyes or skin, decreased appetite, itching, skin rash, vomiting, and/or swelling in their feet, as these are symptoms of liver damage. The risk of getting this serious liver damage is more likely to happen within the first six months of treatment. In some cases, liver damage may continue even after stopping the drug.

Pancreatitis

Depakote can cause pancreatitis in both children and adults, and should not be taken by people with a history of pancreas disease. Patients should tell their healthcare provider if they experience severe stomach pain, sudden change in body temperature, constipation, or lightheadedness.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Depakote has been known to cause serious birth defects, such as spina bifida, and should not be taken by women who are pregnant. According to the manufacturer, these defects occur in 1-2 out of every 100 babies born to mothers who use this medicine during pregnancy. Depakote should not be taken by women who plan on becoming pregnant while taking the medication.

Depakote can be passed through breast milk and should not be taken by women who are breastfeeding.

Other restrictions

Some men have become infertile while taking Depakote.
People who have had an allergic reaction to valproate, valproic acid, divalproex sodium, or any of the ingredients in Depakote should not take it.
Patients with certain metabolic diseases such as urea cycle disorders should not take Depakote.
Depakote has the potential to cause blood thinning and should not be taken by people with a history of bleeding problems.

Withdrawal

Depakote is generally not considered habit-forming. However, stopping Depakote suddenly can cause serious problems. Patients with epilepsy who suddenly stop a seizure medicine can trigger seizures that will not stop. To avoid withdrawal symptoms, patients should discuss slowly stopping treatment with their healthcare provider. Everyone reacts to medications differently, but possible withdrawal symptoms of Depakote may include seizures, dizziness, tremors, irritability, anxiety, and depression. Patients should seek medical advice if these symptoms worsen.

Toxicity

Patients should take the dose of Depakote prescribed by their healthcare provider. While everyone responds to medication differently, the maximum recommended dose of Depakote is 60 mg/kg/day.

It is possible to overdose on Depakote if too much is taken. Symptoms of overdose include sleepiness and irregular heartbeat. A rare symptom of an overdose is a coma. Patients should seek immediate medical attention if they take more than their prescribed dose or experience any of these symptoms.

Depakote interactions

Like any other medication, there are certain drug interactions that should be avoided. Do not take Depakote with:

Anticoagulants, such as warfarin
Other anticonvulsants, including carbamazepine, ethosuximide, lamotrigine, phenytoin, phenobarbital, and topiramate
Antidepressants and anxiolytics, including amitriptyline, bupropion, nortriptyline, and phenelzine
Antiemetics, including metoclopramide and over-the-counter medications such as antacids
Multiple sclerosis agents, including dalfampridine and amifampridine

How to avoid Depakote side effects

1.

Take Depakote as prescribed

Read all drug information before starting Depakote, and follow all directions on your prescription label. Depakote is taken orally and comes as a capsule, extended-release tablets called Depakote ER, a delayed-release tablet, a Depakote sprinkle capsule (capsule that contains small beads of medication that can be sprinkled on food), and a syrup (liquid) to take by mouth.

Dosage will depend on a number of factors including your age, sensitivity to side effects, other medications you are taking, and the reason you are taking Depakote. Take the amount of medication that your healthcare professional has prescribed. The most common Depakote doses are 125 mg tablets, 250 mg tablets, and 500 mg tablets. Take Depakote with food to help prevent the medication from causing stomach pain.

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.

Do not stop taking Depakote without talking to your healthcare provider.

2. Discuss your full medical history with your healthcare provider

Tell your doctor of any medications you are taking, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Discuss any medical conditions you have. Let them know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding or planning on becoming pregnant while taking Depakote. Tell your provider if you have a history of pancreas or liver disease, bleeding problems, or certain metabolic diseases such as urea cycle disorder. It’s also important to discuss a history of depression or mental illness and if you’ve ever experienced suicidal ideation as Depakote may increase these thoughts. While taking Depakote, tell your doctor about any side effects or other symptoms you may develop as he or she may want to adjust the dosage.

3. Avoid other medications and substances that could make you drowsy

Depakote may make you drowsy. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how it will affect you. Some people may also experience impairment in thinking and judgment. Do not drink alcohol while taking Depakote, as this may increase your drowsiness. Do not take sleeping pills, narcotic pain medication, or any other substance that may make you drowsy until you know how Depakote will affect you. Keep Depakote and all medications away from children.

Side effects and their management

Depakote (divalproex delayed-release [DR]) and Depakote ER (divalproex extended-release) are brand-name prescription medications. They’re approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to:

help prevent migraine (a condition that can cause severe headaches, and other symptoms, such as nausea and vomiting) in adults
treat manic episodes or mixed episodes related to bipolar disorder in adults
treat epilepsy with absence seizures or focal onset impaired awareness seizures (previously known as complex partial seizures) in adults and children ages 10 years and older

For these purposes, Depakote and Depakote ER are typically taken as long-term treatments.

Here are some fast facts about Depakote and Depakote ER:

Active ingredient: divalproex
Drug class: antiepileptic
Drug forms:
- delayed-release (DR) oral tablets*
- extended-release (ER) oral tablets†
- DR sprinkle capsules‡

Like other drugs, Depakote and Depakote ER can cause side effects. Read on to learn about potential common, mild, and serious side effects. For a general overview of Depakote and Depakote ER, including details about the uses of each form, see this article.

* DR tablets have a coating that keeps the tablet from releasing the drug into your body until it has passed through your stomach.
† ER tablets release the drug slowly into your body over time.
‡ DR sprinkle capsules can be swallowed whole or opened so their contents can be sprinkled onto food.

Depakote and Depakote ER can cause certain adverse effects (side effects), some of which are more common than others. The side effects in the sections below are based on clinical trials of Depakote DR tablets, Depakote ER tablets, and Depakote DR sprinkle capsules.

These are just a few of the more common side effects reported by people who took Depakote and Depakote ER:

problems with digestion, such as nausea and vomiting
headache
weakness
dizziness
tremor* (uncontrollable shaking in a part of your body)

These side effects may be temporary, lasting a few days to weeks. However, if the side effects last longer than that, bother you, or become severe, be sure to talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

* For more information about this side effect, see “Side effect specifics” below.

Side effects in younger adults vs. older adults

Compared with younger adults, adults ages 65 years and older may have a higher risk of certain side effects from Depakote and Depakote ER.

The side effects below were more common in older adults than in younger adults:

sleepiness
infection
accidental injury*
tremor† (uncontrollable shaking in a part of your body)

In addition, older adults may have certain health conditions that affect how their bodies respond to Depakote and Depakote ER. These include dementia (problems with thinking, memory, and communication), kidney problems, and liver problems. These conditions could raise their risk of side effects from the drug.

Due to these potential risks, older adults may be prescribed a lower starting dosage of Depakote or Depakote ER. (For more information on dosage, see this article.)

If you’re age 65 years or older, talk with your doctor before taking Depakote or Depakote ER. They can advise on the risks and benefits of taking the drug to treat your condition.

* This side effect was more common with Depakote DR tablets and Depakote ER tablets than with Depakote DR sprinkle capsules.
† For more information about this side effect, see “Side effect specifics” below.

Mild side effects can occur with Depakote and Depakote ER use. This list doesn’t include all possible mild side effects of the drug. For more information, you can refer to the prescribing information for Depakote DR tablets, Depakote ER tablets, and Depakote DR sprinkle capsules.

Mild side effects that have been reported with Depakote and Depakote ER include:

dizziness
sleep problems, such as insomnia or sleepiness
decreased or increased appetite
headache
infection or flu-like symptoms, such as fever or runny nose
weakness
eye problems, such as blurry vision, double vision, or nystagmus (rapid, involuntary eye movements)
loss of coordination
nervousness
sore throat
swelling in the arms or legs
problems with digestion, such as nausea, constipation, diarrhea, vomiting, indigestion, or abdominal pain
weight loss
back pain*
skin rash*
accidental injury*
weight gain†
hair loss‡
tremor‡ (uncontrollable shaking in a part of your body)

These side effects may be temporary, lasting a few days to weeks. However, if the side effects last longer than that, bother you, or become severe, be sure to talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

Note: After the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approves a drug, it tracks side effects of the medication. If you develop a side effect while taking Depakote or Depakote ER and want to tell the FDA about it, visit MedWatch.

* This side effect was more common with Depakote DR tablets and Depakote ER tablets than with Depakote DR sprinkle capsules.
† For more information about this side effect, see the “Depakote and Depakote ER and weight gain” section below.
‡ To learn more about this side effect, see “Side effect specifics” below.

Depakote and Depakote ER may cause serious side effects. The list below may not include all possible serious side effects of the drug. For more information, you can refer to the prescribing information for Depakote DR tablets, Depakote ER tablets, and Depakote DR sprinkle capsules.

If you develop serious side effects while taking Depakote or Depakote ER, call your doctor right away. If the side effects seem life threatening or you think you’re having a medical emergency, immediately call 911 or your local emergency number.

Serious side effects that have been reported and their symptoms include:

Depression. Symptoms can include:
decreased or increased appetite
fatigue
trouble concentrating or making decisions
loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyable
Low level of platelets (a type of red blood cell that helps blood clot). Symptoms can include:
unusual bleeding, such as bleeding longer than usual or having bleeding gums
bruising easily
Memory loss. Symptoms can include:
confusion
inability to recognize familiar locations or faces
inability to remember past events
Thoughts of suicide or self-harm. This was not specifically reported in clinical trials of the drug. However, it’s a known side effect of antiepileptic drugs, such as Depakote and Depakote ER. Symptoms can include:
sudden or unusual changes in your behaviors, emotions, or moods
new or worsened depression
new or worsened anxiety
feelings of hopelessness
Hyperammonemia (high level of ammonia in your blood). Symptoms can include:
vomiting
feeling extremely tired
headache
confusion
Hypothermia (body temperature below 95°F, or 35°C). Symptoms can include
shivering
slurred speech
shallow and slow breathing
loss of consciousness
Drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS)/multiorgan hypersensitivity reaction (severe and possibly fatal drug rash that affects the skin and other organs). Symptoms can include:
fever
skin rash
eosinophilia (increased level of a specific white blood cell during an allergic reaction or certain infections)
heart, lung, liver, or kidney damage
Pancreatitis.*†
Harm to a fetus.*‡
Liver damage.*†
Allergic reaction.†§

* Depakote DR tablets, Depakote ER tablets, and Depakote DR sprinkle capsules have a boxed warning for this side effect. This is the most serious warning from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
† To learn more about this side effect, see the “Side effect specifics” section below.
‡ For more information, see “Pregnancy and breastfeeding while taking Depakote and Depakote ER in the “Precautions for Depakote and Depakote ER” section below.
§ An allergic reaction is possible after taking Depakote and Depakote ER. However, it’s not clear whether this side effect occurred in clinical trials.

Suicide prevention

If you know someone at immediate risk of self-harm, suicide, or hurting another person:

Ask the tough question: “Are you considering suicide?”
Listen to the person without judgment.
Call 911 or the local emergency number, or text TALK to 741741 to communicate with a trained crisis counselor.
Stay with the person until professional help arrives.
Try to remove any weapons, medications, or other potentially harmful objects.

If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide, a prevention hotline can help. The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available 24 hours a day at 988. During a crisis, people who are hard of hearing can use their preferred relay service or dial 711 then 988.

Click here for more links and local resources.

Long-term side effects

Depakote and Depakote ER may cause certain long-term side effects. For example, there have been reports of pancreatitis* (swelling of the pancreas) after long-term use of the drugs.

However, the length of side effects from Depakote and Depakote ER can vary from person to person.

If you’re concerned about long-term side effects with Depakote or Depakote ER, talk with your doctor.

Weight gain is possible with Depakote and Depakote ER. This was a common side effect in clinical trials of Depakote DR tablets, Depakote ER tablets, and Depakote DR sprinkle capsules.

Also, keep in mind that increased appetite is another possible side effect of Depakote and Depakote ER. And having an increased appetite could lead to weight gain over time.

If you’re concerned about weight gain while taking Depakote or Depakote ER, talk with your doctor. They can suggest healthy ways to manage or maintain your weight while taking the drug.

Learn more about some of the side effects that Depakote and Depakote ER may cause.

Hair loss

Hair loss is possible with Depakote and Depakote ER. This side effect was common in clinical trials of Depakote DR tablets, Depakote ER tablets, and Depakote DR sprinkle capsules.

Clinical trials also suggest that the risk of hair loss with Depakote may be greater at higher doses of the drug.

What you can do

If you’re concerned about hair loss with Depakote or Depakote ER, talk with your doctor. They can advise if a lower dose of the drug can be prescribed to treat your condition. Or they may recommend a different drug that doesn’t cause this side effect.

Tremor

Some people may experience tremor (uncontrollable shaking in a part of your body) with Depakote or Depakote ER. Tremor refers to uncontrollable shaking that affects different parts of the body, such as the head, arms, and hands.

Tremor was a common side effect in clinical trials of Depakote DR tablets, Depakote ER tablets, and Depakote DR sprinkle capsules. The side effect was more common in adults 65 years and older than in younger adults.

What you can do

If you develop a tremor while taking Depakote or Depakote ER, talk with your doctor. They can suggest ways to ease your symptoms. If your tremor is bothersome, your doctor may prescribe a different treatment for you instead.

Pancreatitis

Depakote and Depakote ER have a boxed warning for the risk of pancreatitis (swelling of the pancreas). A boxed warning is the most serious warning from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It alerts doctors and patients about drug effects that may be dangerous.

Pancreatitis wasn’t reported in clinical trials of Depakote DR tablets, Depakote ER tablets, and Depakote DR sprinkle capsules. However, this side effect has been reported since the drugs became available for use.

Symptoms of pancreatitis can include:

fever
loss of appetite
sudden pain in the center of your abdomen
digestive problems such as diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting

In rare cases, pancreatitis from Depakote and Depakote ER may lead to serious, life threatening bleeding.

What you can do

Tell your doctor right away if you have symptoms of pancreatitis while taking Depakote or Depakote ER. They’ll likely switch you to a different treatment for your condition. If you have pancreatitis, they may prescribe medications to treat it.

Liver damage

Taking Depakote or Depakote ER may cause liver damage. In fact, Depakote and Depakote ER have a boxed warning for this risk. A boxed warning is the most serious warning from the FDA.

Liver damage wasn’t reported as a side effect in clinical trials of Depakote DR tablets, Depakote ER tablets, and Depakote DR sprinkle capsules. However, liver damage has been reported since the drugs became available for use. Rarely, serious liver damage from Depakote and Depakote ER may be fatal.

Symptoms of liver damage while taking Depakote and Depakote ER include:

jaundice
loss of appetite
nausea and vomiting
pain on the right side of your abdomen
dark urine
facial swelling

The risk of this side effect is highest in the first 6 months after you start taking Depakote or Depakote ER.* People with mitochondrial disorders are also at a higher risk of liver damage with Depakote and Depakote ER. (Mitochondrial disorders are a group of genetic conditions that prevent mitochondria from functioning as well as they should in cells. )

* The risk of liver damage with Depakote and Depakote ER is known to be highest in children ages 2 years and younger. Depakote and Depakote ER aren’t approved for use in children of this age, however.

What you can do

Before starting treatment with Depakote or Depakote ER, be sure your doctor knows about all your health conditions. They can advise if it’s safe for you to take the drug based on your health history.

Your doctor will likely give you blood tests to check your liver function before you start taking Depakote or Depakote ER. They may continue to monitor your liver function during your treatment.

Watch for symptoms of liver damage while taking Depakote or Depakote ER. Your doctor will monitor you for liver side effects as well. If you have symptoms of liver damage from Depakote or Depakote ER, tell your doctor right away. They’ll likely have you stop taking the drug.

Allergic reaction

As with most drugs, Depakote and Depakote ER can cause an allergic reaction in some people. However, it’s not clear whether this side effect occurred in clinical trials of Depakote DR tablets, Depakote ER tablets, and Depakote DR sprinkle capsules.

Symptoms can be mild or serious and can include:

skin rash
itching
flushing
swelling under your skin, typically in your eyelids, lips, feet, or hands
swelling of your mouth, tongue, or throat, which can make it hard to breathe

What you can do

For mild symptoms of an allergic reaction, call your doctor right away. They may recommend ways to ease your symptoms and determine whether you should keep taking Depakote or Depakote ER. However, if your symptoms are serious and you think you’re having a medical emergency, immediately call 911 or your local emergency number.

Depakote and Depakote ER aren’t known to cause withdrawal side effects. Withdrawal side effects happen when you stop taking a drug your body has become dependent on.

But it’s possible that stopping Depakote or Depakote ER could worsen symptoms of the condition you’re taking the drug to treat. For this reason, it’s important to talk with your doctor before you stop taking Depakote or Depakote ER.

If your doctor recommends you stop taking Depakote or Depakote ER, they’ll advise you how to do so. They may switch you to a different medication to decrease the risk of your condition worsening.

Depakote and Depakote ER may cause several side effects. Here are some frequently asked questions about the drug’s side effects and their answers.

Can taking too much Depakote or Depakote ER cause overdose symptoms?

Yes, taking too much Depakote or Depakote ER may cause overdose symptoms.

Examples of symptoms that have been reported with overdose include:

high sodium level in the blood, which can cause confusion or fatigue
sleepiness
heart block (a condition that occurs when the electrical signal from your heart is stopped or slowed)
coma

In rare cases, overdose from Depakote or Depakote ER may be fatal.

To avoid overdose, it’s important that you take Depakote or Depakote ER exactly as your doctor advises you to. If you have symptoms of overdose while taking the drug, tell your doctor right away. They may need to adjust your dosage. (For more information on dosage, see this article.)

Does Depakote or Depakote ER cause sexual side effects?

Yes, it’s possible for Depakote or Depakote ER to cause sexual side effects. These weren’t reported in clinical trials of Depakote DR tablets, Depakote ER tablets, or Depakote DR sprinkle capsules. However, there have been reports of sexual side effects after the drugs became available for use.

Specifically, erectile dysfunction has been reported with Depakote and Depakote ER. However, it isn’t known if Depakote or Depakote ER affects libido (sex drive).

Tell your doctor if you have sexual side effects while you’re taking Depakote and Depakote ER. They may prescribe a different treatment for your condition that doesn’t cause these side effects.

How do the side effects of the 250-milligram (mg) and 500-mg Depakote and Depakote ER tablets compare?

The side effects of Depakote and Depakote ER are expected to be the same regardless of the dose you’re prescribed.

However, in general, your risk of side effects from Depakote may be greater with higher doses of the drug.

If you’re concerned about your risk of side effects with your dosage of Depakote or Depakote ER, talk with your doctor. (For more information on dosage, see this article.)

What are the side effects when Depakote or Depakote ER is used off-label?

The side effects of Depakote and Depakote ER are expected to be the same regardless of the condition the drug is used to treat.

Depakote and Depakote ER are FDA-approved for the following purposes in certain situations:

to help prevent migraine
to treat manic episodes or mixed episodes related to bipolar disorder
to treat epilepsy with absence seizures and complex partial seizures

Depakote and Depakote ER may also be used off-label for other conditions, such as anxiety and schizophrenia. Off-label drug use is when a doctor prescribes a drug for a purpose other than what it’s been approved for by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Depakote and Depakote ER’s active ingredient (divalproex) works the same way in the body no matter which condition the drugs are used to treat. So, the side effects of Depakote and Depakote ER are expected to be the same.

If you have questions about what side effects to expect with Depakote or Depakote ER, talk with your doctor.

Is tardive dyskinesia a side effect of Depakote and Depakote ER?

Yes, in rare cases, Depakote and Depakote ER may cause tardive dyskinesia.

Tardive dyskinesia is a condition that causes uncontrolled muscle movements. These movements usually affect the face and include symptoms such as frowning, sticking out the tongue, lip smacking, and excessively blinking.

Tardive dyskinesia was a rare side effect reported in clinical trials of Depakote DR tablets and Depakote ER tablets. However, this side effect was not reported in clinical trials of Depakote DR sprinkle capsules.

If you have symptoms of tardive dyskinesia while taking Depakote and Depakote ER, talk with your doctor. They may prescribe a drug to treat your symptoms. Or they may prescribe you a different drug that doesn’t cause this side effect.

Do Depakote and Depakote ER cause hallucinations?

Rarely, Depakote and Depakote ER may cause hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that aren’t really there).

Hallucinations were a rare side effect reported in clinical trials of Depakote DR tablets and Depakote ER tablets. They weren’t reported in clinical trials of Depakote DR sprinkle capsules.

If you’re concerned about hallucinations with Depakote or Depakote ER, talk with your doctor.

What are the side effects of Depakote and Depakote ER in females?

The side effects of Depakote and Depakote ER are generally expected to be the same for females* and males.*

However, females taking Depakote or Depakote ER during pregnancy may experience side effects. For details, see “Pregnancy and breastfeeding while taking Depakote and Depakote ER” in the “Precautions for Depakote and Depakote ER” section below.

If you have questions about the risk of certain side effects from Depakote or Depakote ER, talk with your doctor.

* Sex and gender exist on spectrums. Use of the terms “female” and “male” in this article refers to sex assigned at birth.

Below is important information about precautions for Depakote and Depakote ER.

Boxed warnings

This drug has the following boxed warnings, which are serious warnings from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Pancreatitis. To learn more, see the “Side effect specifics” section above.
Harm to a fetus. For more information, see “Pregnancy and breastfeeding while taking Depakote and Depakote ER” below.
Liver damage. For details, see the “Side effect specifics” section above.

Other precautions

Be sure to talk with your doctor about your health history before you take Depakote or Depakote ER. These drugs may not be the right treatment for you if you have certain medical conditions or other factors that affect your health. The conditions and factors to consider include:

Mitochondrial disorder. Before taking Depakote or Depakote ER, tell your doctor if you have a mitochondrial disorder. These are genetic conditions that prevent mitochondria from functioning as they should in cells. Having a mitochondrial disorder can raise your risk of liver damage with Depakote or Depakote ER. If you have this condition, your doctor may prescribe you another drug.

Problems with digestion. Tell your doctor about any digestive problems you have before starting treatment with Depakote or Depakote ER. This includes having had a previous ileostomy or colostomy. These factors may cause the drug to move through your digestive system without breaking down entirely in your body. If this happens, you may notice pieces of the capsules or tablet in your stool. And this could mean your body isn’t absorbing enough of the drug to treat your condition effectively. If you have certain problems with digestion, your doctor may prescribe another treatment.

Urea cycle disorder. Before taking Depakote or Depakote ER, tell your doctor if you have urea cycle disorder. Urea cycle disorder can increase the level of ammonia in your blood when taken with Depakote or Depakote ER. If you have this condition, tell your doctor before taking the drug.

Allergic reaction. If you’ve had an allergic reaction to Depakote, Depakote ER, or any of its ingredients, your doctor will likely not prescribe you these drugs. Ask your doctor what other medications may be better options for you. (For more information, see the “Side effect specifics” section above.)

Alcohol use with Depakote and Depakote ER

There is no known interaction between alcohol and Depakote or Depakote ER.

However, your doctor may recommend you avoid alcohol while taking these drugs. This is because alcohol, Depakote, and Depakote ER can cause sleepiness and dizziness on their own. So, drinking alcohol while taking Depakote or Depakote ER may worsen these side effects.

If you drink alcohol, talk with your doctor before taking Depakote or Depakote ER. They can recommend whether how much alcohol, if any, is safe for you to drink while taking the drug.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding while taking Depakote and Depakote ER

Below is information about taking Depakote and Depakote ER during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Pregnancy

It likely isn’t safe to take Depakote or Depakote ER while pregnant. If taken during pregnancy, the drugs may cause problems with fetal development (commonly known as “birth defects”). Children exposed to these drugs during fetal development may also have lower IQ scores.

For these reasons, Depakote and Depakote ER have a boxed warning for the risk of harm to a fetus if taken during pregnancy. A boxed warning is the most serious warning from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

If you become pregnant while taking Depakote or Depakote ER, tell your doctor right away. They can advise you on the risks and benefits of continuing treatment with the drug. Your doctor may also recommend a different treatment option for your condition.

If you become pregnant while taking Depakote or Depakote ER, consider enrolling in a pregnancy registry. A pregnancy registry helps gather important information about how a drug can affect pregnancy.

To learn more about the North American Antiepileptic Drug Pregnancy Registry, talk with your doctor. You can also call 888-233-2334 or visit the registry website.

Breastfeeding

It may not be safe to take Depakote or Depakote ER while breastfeeding. The drugs can pass into breast milk. This could cause side effects in a breastfed child.

If you breastfeed while taking Depakote or Depakote ER, it is important to watch the breastfed child for unusual bruising or bleeding. Also watch for signs of jaundice, such as yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes and pale stools. These could be symptoms of side effects from Depakote and Depakote ER.

If you’re breastfeeding or planning to do so, talk with your doctor. They can discuss the risks and benefits of taking Depakote or Depakote ER while breastfeeding.

Both mild and serious side effects can happen with Depakote and Depakote ER. Most of the drugs’ side effects are mild and should go away with time. However, be sure to tell your doctor if you have bothersome side effects from Depakote or Depakote ER.

If you’d like to learn more about Depakote and Depakote ER, talk with your doctor or pharmacist. They can help answer any questions you have about side effects from taking either drug.

Besides talking with your doctor, you can do some research on your own. These articles might help:

More information about Depakote and Depakote ER. For details about other aspects of these drugs, refer to this article.
A look at your condition.
For details about bipolar disorder, see our mental health hub and list of bipolar articles.
To learn more about migraine, take a look at our headache and migraine hub and list of headache and migraine articles.
For more information about seizures, you can visit our epilepsy and seizures hub.

Disclaimer: Medical News Today has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.

Psychosomatics of excess weight in women - psychological causes of obesity, how to lose weight correctly

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Psychosomatics of excess weight in women

It is generally accepted that the main cause of obesity is malnutrition and lack of physical activity. But research shows that being overweight has psychosomatic causes. If this is the case, then losing weight simply by dieting will not work, it is necessary to eliminate psychological problems.

Causes of obesity

Obesity is considered one of the diseases of civilization. High-calorie food became available to people, but physical activity decreased. Working, sitting in the office, commuting home in public transport, and often relaxing in the evening sitting on the couch reduce the need for calories. But at the same time, no one reduces consumption, the calorie content of food increases due to the large amount of simple carbohydrates - sweet, flour, and also animal fats.

Research shows that there are many causes of obesity:

malnutrition is not only a large number of calories, but also non-compliance with the diet, fasting in the morning and a large amount of food in the evening before bedtime;

sleep deprivation - going to bed after 12 a. m. interferes with the production of the hormone melatonin, ghrelin and leptin, which regulate appetite. A person who sleeps little or stays up at night is more prone to obesity;

drugs - taking hormones, antidepressants (Amitriptyline, etc.), may provoke increased appetite or impaired lipid and carbohydrate metabolism;

genetic predisposition - it has been proven that obese parents have children prone to the appearance of excess adipose tissue;

endocrine diseases - hypothyroidism, type 2 diabetes mellitus, Cushing's disease are often accompanied by obesity, in men, pathological weight gain is observed with testosterone deficiency, and in women with a lack of estrogen, polycystic ovaries;

pathology of the central nervous system - brain injuries, some types of tumors can provoke eating disorders. Some mental disorders are also accompanied by overeating and being overweight.

Women tend to gain weight at certain times in their lives. Sometimes premenstrual syndrome is accompanied by the development of edema and weight gain. This is due to a lack of the hormone progesterone. Many feel that on the eve of the onset of menstruation and in the first days they begin to eat more, which causes serious fluctuations in body weight.

The risk of gaining excess weight increases during pregnancy. Hormonal changes lead to active storage of fat. On average, body weight during pregnancy increases by 10-15 kg, but some women gain 20-25 kg. Pregnant women with a lean physique are especially prone to this.

During menopause, the risk of obesity increases again. The lack of estrogen affects the metabolism in adipose tissue and leads to a gradual weight gain, which is very difficult to get rid of.

Psychological causes of excess weight

In medicine, psychosomatics is a separate area that is actively developing. Psychosomatic causes have been established in many diseases, obesity is one of them. It is believed that the basis of the development of pathology is the reaction of the body to emotional experience. first, it causes functional changes that are easily corrected when the problem is eliminated, and then pathological disturbances in work.

Psychologists explain that an unresolved internal conflict, a situation that is emotionally unpleasant for a person, can go into the subconscious and remain unresolved. But it remains at an unconscious level and leads to eating disorders or problems with other organs.

Psychosomatics of excess weight in women can be associated with the following factors:

Stress eating – conditionally, if in childhood something sweet was immediately offered to a crying child, this action was fixed in the subconscious. An adult woman, also with negative emotions, tries to eat something tasty to cheer up. Most often these are sweets, fast food, alcohol, which also leads to weight gain due to high calorie content;

low self-esteem - psychologists believe that in insecure women, excessive food intake is activated, which leads to excess weight. So they become more visible to others, but continue to live with low self-esteem;

the desire to become ugly - women who have been raped at an early age, psychologically increase their appetite. So subconsciously they try to disfigure their body in order to avoid the repetition of unpleasant events;

protection from the outside world - eating a lot of food and building up a layer of fat allows you to hide, build a tangible barrier. This is observed both in shy people and in victims of physical or mental abuse;

Attention deficit in childhood or marriage - psychological causes associated with the desire to become more visible to parents who do not devote enough time to the girl. Married women sometimes begin to gain weight when the spouse loses interest in them;

reluctance to like the opposite sex - the root of the problem is also in childhood, when the girl was imposed with false stereotypes of behavior, limited communication with young men or suggested that beauty and sexuality are bad. Subconsciously, the girl begins to change her body, hide it under a layer of fat.

Psychosomatics can increase metabolic disorders in the body and lead to the development of obesity, which is resistant to diets and requires special complex treatment.

What the distribution of fat in the body indicates

Psychologists believe that emotional problems can be judged by the nature of the distribution of fat in a woman's body. The second chin appears with innuendo, fear of expressing one's thoughts aloud. Fat deposits in the shoulders and back are associated with the burden of the past, which a woman continues to carry on herself or a deep sense of guilt. Fat folds on the back in the lumbar region are an indicator of feelings of guilt and shame for one's misdeeds or mistakes. In general, the distribution of fat in the upper body is a reflection of increased responsibility for others, the desire to help everyone, often to the detriment of their own interests.

Psychosomatics explains the distribution of fat deposits in the lower part of the body as follows:

buttocks - lack of fulfillment in sexual life, excessive stubbornness, egocentrism;

belly - excessive concern, a large number of unrealized ideas that a woman carries in herself, some psychologists associate it with problems between mother and child;

hips - children's fears and resentments, infantilism or a sense of shame;

riding breeches - an area of meaningless accumulations, when a woman keeps relationships she does not need, goes to an unloved job, and saves unpleasant emotions.

Losing weight in women with psychological causes of obesity is possible only after careful work with a psychologist and psychotherapist who will help you find the root of the problems and understand yourself.

How to solve the psychological problem of excess weight

It is necessary to treat obesity, which is psychosomatic, together with a psychologist. But first you need to make sure that the problem has a psychological cause and is not associated with endocrine disorders or other diseases. To do this, they conduct an examination with a therapist and an endocrinologist.

Sometimes the impetus for successful weight loss is the conclusion of a diagnostician, which indicates a serious deterioration of internal organs. Often obesity of 2-3 degrees is accompanied by fatty hepatosis (obesity and impaired liver function), an increased risk of atherosclerosis, impaired glucose tolerance and a tendency to jumps in blood pressure at a young age.

For the treatment of psychosomatics, it is important to find an experienced psychologist who will help you find the causes of overeating and teach you to control your desires. This process takes a lot of time and is built from several stages, in which the psychologist will offer to perform certain exercises:

Identification of subpersonalities, one of which seeks to overeat, and the second - to control. In psychology, it is usually recommended to give them names and tune in to a dialogue during which you can determine the reasons why a woman overeats, how one side of her controls this process, and the other interferes.

Search for motivation, or the benefits of being overweight. A woman can blame obesity for the failures that happen to her. But subconsciously, she often justifies herself, looking for benefits in this position. Through this exercise, she can identify her needs, which she satisfies with excess weight, and find another way to satisfy them.

At the third stage, the psychologist suggests answering questions about being overweight, distributing the answers into columns with pluses and minuses. After making sure that the cons of obesity are greater, a woman can tune in to decisive weight loss.

Sometimes emotional problems or experiences are so significant that they require medication. The doctor may prescribe herbal sedatives that will not harm and help maintain mental balance. These can be valerian tablets, motherwort tincture, Novopassit or Persen. These drugs do not disrupt carbohydrate metabolism, unlike antidepressants.

In addition to finding the reason for eating high-calorie foods, with the help of psychology, you can try to refuse it if you build the right motivation. Psychological tricks work well when the same portion of food is crushed into small pieces. They visually look more voluminous than one large piece of meat or other dish. It helps to replace standard plates for eating with small ones that visually increase the amount of food.

With psychosomatic causes of excess weight, positive emotions are needed that will displace unpleasant experiences and help to survive stress. For reinforcements you can use:

creativity - drawing, singing, playing musical instruments, dancing - any direction that will help get rid of negativity or switch to good emotions;

sports - if obesity has not reached a severe stage, when physical activity worsens well-being, you can remember your old hobbies or find new ones. It can be team sports, martial arts or any other kind of activity;

hobby - helps not to eat high-calorie food, but to distract from troubles, switch attention to activities that give pleasure.

The results of losing weight for psychosomatic reasons should be recorded so that a woman sees changes for the better. But weighing should not be daily, because. body weight can fluctuate. It is better to get on the scale once a week to confirm the positive changes.

Additional measures for weight loss

You cannot lose weight with the help of psychology alone, you need to reduce the caloric content of food and increase physical activity. To do this, a nutritionist or endocrinologist makes a special diet, in which there will be a calorie deficit of 10-20% of the daily requirement. The following foods are excluded from the diet:

pastries made from white flour, black bread, which increases fermentation in the intestines;

sweet in any form, it can be replaced with dried fruits or fresh fruits;

fatty meats;

any food that stimulates the appetite - spicy, smoked, carbonated and alcoholic drinks.

Be sure to normalize the drinking regime, the female body needs at least 1.5 liters of water, and in hot weather, with active physical exertion, this amount can increase to 2-2.5 liters.

To lose weight, it is necessary to reduce the absorption of incoming fats. Therefore, for women with critical forms of obesity, the doctor may prescribe special drugs for weight loss. The effect has been proven in the following drugs:

fiber in various forms - increases the volume of intestinal contents, adsorbs part of the lipids and does not allow them to be absorbed, creates conditions for the reproduction of normal intestinal microflora, which synthesizes vitamins B and K;

Orlistat - inhibits the activity of lipases - enzymes that are involved in the breakdown of fats from food. Therefore, lipids come out naturally and are absorbed, which accelerates weight loss.

Various dietary supplements are used to help compensate for vitamin deficiencies and improve digestive function.

Physical activity with severe obesity is not always possible due to a large belly, voluminous hips that interfere with movement. Often women suffer from shortness of breath due to excess weight. Therefore, they begin to increase physical activity from exercise therapy, and after the appearance of positive dynamics and an increase in tolerance to stress, they switch to more active sports.

When to see a doctor

Often weight gain in women is accompanied not only by functional disorders, obesity is reinforced by other diseases. In this case, losing weight without the help of a doctor will not work, and sometimes it is necessary to treat the underlying pathology.

Being overweight and overeating can be one of the symptoms of severe depression. Why this form of the disease develops is not exactly known, but one of the factors in its development is a violation of the synthesis or metabolism of serotonin in the brain. Therefore, it is impossible to solve the problem without special preparations. With depressive disorders, herbal sedatives will not help, it is necessary to take antidepressants. These drugs are sold only by prescription and are selected individually. And for patients with excess body weight, tablets should not have a stimulating effect on appetite.

A large belly, fat shoulders, thin arms and legs are common signs of Cushing's disease or syndrome. This pathology is associated with a violation of the production of adrenal hormones, which determines the specific deposition of fat. Pathology is accompanied not only by obesity. Cushing's disease is characterized by a violation of carbohydrate metabolism and a tendency to develop diabetes, a pronounced immunodeficiency, and sexual disorders. You can lose weight only by eliminating hormonal imbalances. This often requires surgical removal of the tumor producing excess cortisol.

In women of reproductive age, obesity, which is accompanied by hirsutism, rashes on the face and menstrual irregularities, is an indicator of polycystic ovaries. This is a gynecological endocrine pathology. It is characterized by the absence of ovulation, infertility, impaired insulin production, which over time can lead to diabetes. Treatment of polycystic disease - in mild cases, hormonal therapy, in severe cases - surgery.

If you are overweight due to psychogenic overeating, you need to pay attention to any changes in health. Constant feeling of thirst in non-hot weather, a large amount of lost urine, dizziness can be the first symptoms of type 2 diabetes. Insulin is not used for its treatment, in most cases a diet and the use of special tablets for diabetes, for example, Siofor, are sufficient.

If a woman's overweight is associated with psychosomatic causes, it is necessary to act comprehensively. But one work with a psychologist and the correction of emotions is not enough. If you do not increase the consumption of calories and do not reduce their intake, body weight will remain in place.

Medicines that can make you gain weight

Taking medicines that your doctor prescribes for you for one reason or another may be accompanied by side effects that are not always desirable. Unfortunately, doctors do not always warn about what medications can lead to, and many would like to know what to expect from a course of medications.

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One of the most common drug side effects is weight gain. Let's make a reservation right away - this does not happen for everyone and not always, but you can be one of those "lucky ones" who really put on weight.

We talk about medications that can cause weight gain. We are sure that it is better to know and take some steps in advance so as not to gain weight than to accidentally discover an extra 3-5, or even 10 kg, gained over several weeks of taking the drug.

In general, it would be absolutely useful to discuss with the doctor all the possible "side effects" that the prescribed medicine can cause in order to take timely action. This, however, applies to any side effects, and not just those associated with weight. In some cases, undesirable effects are inevitable, but there are situations when their occurrence can be completely avoided or at least made less pronounced.

Steroids

Steroid preparations can be prescribed for various diseases. They make it quite easy to achieve an improvement in the condition, but the treatment is often accompanied by an undesirable effect, including insomnia, increased appetite and swelling. All this is the perfect combo for those extra pounds to literally stick in strategic places. It is important that steroids are available in different forms - these can be ointments and creams, sprays, as well as tablets. The latter just cause weight gain the most. You can reduce your chances of gaining weight by choosing the lowest possible dose for you, as well as adjusting your diet and choosing the ideal sleep pattern for you.

Antidepressants

Many people say that you can gain weight on antidepressants. Fortunately, not everyone is gaining it, although this, of course, is quite real. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors pose the greatest danger in this regard, so if you are taking drugs whose active ingredient belongs to this class of substances, be careful.

The fact is that such drugs not only improve your mood and help you feel less depressed, but also increase your appetite. And here the connection is quite obvious: you want to eat more - you eat more - your weight increases.

If you are prone to weight gain, then discuss with your doctor in advance that you are worried about the fact that he will become more - it is likely that he will be able to choose another suitable drug for you.

Birth control pills

Oral contraceptives have many side effects, some of which are quite pleasant and desirable. But, let's not hide, weight gain is not included in this list for everyone.

It works like this: progesterone, which is part of birth control pills, increases appetite, which causes women to eat more and gain weight. Another possible mechanism is that while taking contraceptives, the body begins to more actively retain water, and the weight also goes up because of this.

Antihistamines

Popular antihistamine-based allergy medications are most often not available by prescription. They can be prescribed by a doctor, but many people buy these drugs on their own initiative and choose the dosage on their own.

In addition to the fact that the selection of medicines still has to be handled by a specialist, there is another danger. All the same kilograms that you can gain. Taking allergy medications frequently can lead to weight gain. This happens more often in women than in men. If you notice that you are really gaining weight on the background of a course of antihistamines, but at least try to change the dosage form: the spray in this case will be much less dangerous than tablets.

Blood pressure medications

Medicines prescribed for hypertension, such as beta-blockers and angiotensin receptor blockers, also affect weight. Unfortunately, in the case of such drugs, the choice is not too rich. There is nothing to replace them and cancel, most likely, the doctor will not allow. And this means that in order to prevent gaining extra pounds, you will have to carefully monitor your lifestyle, adjust your diet and try to introduce at least a minimum of physical activity into your daily routine.

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