Comparing Lamotrigine vs Divalproex Sodium

For Bipolar Disorder: Lamotrigine has been pretty good along with lithium (bipolar). Have been on 200Mg for 3 years and lithium for 15. I decided to ramp up lamotrigine to 400 mg and I had more energy and zest and best moods but also had more anxiety, math/memory issues, and a touch of hypomania. However, I did have incredible orgasms!!! Back down to 300mg and I am experiencing a bit more depression but seem to be pretty level. Lamotrigine seems to lessen the severity of my depressive episodes but does not eliminate them. It helps me enough to stay on it.

For Bipolar Disorder: Have others found after 1st manic episode to be sensitive to meds? I started low dose zyprexa & gained 10 lbs in two weeks, took a half pill of low dose abilify & developed akathisia. Took 600 mg lithium & became toxic. Now on Lamictal. I started at 2.5 mg & felt great & 5 mg even better. At 10 mg became a little aggressive. Then tried 12.5 mg and hopefully 25 mg but I can’t get past 12.5 mg without wanting to rip someone’s head off! I cut that in half to 6.25 mg (1/4 of tablet). I am hyper, it makes me sometimes feel like I’m on speed but my head is clear & I’m extremely active now. I added 5 mg of buspar twice a day to take the edge off & reduce anxiety. Appears to be holding but wonder if I’m the only one sensitive like this. I was diagnosed major depressive disorder & anxiety in 1997. Been on Paxil & Wellbutrin for years but now can no longer handle them after first manic episode. Now I am also diagnosed bipolar 2 & ptsd. Thank you!

For Bipolar Disorder: I think it works some what. Still feel a little crazy towards people but a little bit more calmer but makes me tired very tired. I was supposed to be on Seroquel but even with good insurance still 500 dollars! But only been on this a week will give it a chance Thanks

For Bipolar Disorder: First, I was put on Divalproex during a hypomanic episode that wouldn't end even with five different psych drugs. The Divalproex worked quickly to quell the hypomania, but at 1000 mg/day this drug's side effects were unbearable. Chronic diarrhea, rapid weight gain of 30 pounds, shaking hands, finger tremors, excessive tiredness during the day, lack of coordination when walking, lack of concentration, & two thirds of my long hair fell out in clumps. My psychiatrist started lowering the Divalproex gradually down to 500 mg/day, & she withdrew three of the other drugs also. All the side effects subsided. Now I'm just taking 500 mg Divalproex per day along with 40 mg Latuda & my moods have been really stable!