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Depakote and HeadachesDepakote and headaches actually makes for a good combination. Depakote is an older anti-seizure drug that is very effective for treating recurring headaches. Interestingly, this medication has side effects which are actually BENEFICIAL to headache patients. One of the side effects is sedation. Great you say! If you take Depakote before bedtime, not only can it help get you to sleep, but it also treats the headaches by reducing the frequency and severity of them. I have seen Depakote be very effective in patients who have chronic daily headaches, and especially effective in people who have migraines. This anti-seizure drug is taken in low doses to treat headaches. What you are looking for is a reduction in the frequency and severity of your headaches. The dose will be adjusted until you are stable (1 headache per month or so). Keep in mind this is also a great drug if you suffer from
depression, which fuels headaches.
SIDE EFFECTS: Like other anti-seizure drugs, Depakote can cause numbness, tingling and some mild dizziness. These side effects usually wear off after a few months of therapy. Some patients are afraid of Depakote having read that it causes weight gain. While this happens in less than 10% of patients, it is reversible when the medication is stopped. You should probably not take Depakote if you have a history of liver disease or are pregnant. All medications should be prescribed by a licensed health care provider.
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