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How Can Mitochondrial Myopathy Be Treated?
Question: i was diagnosed with myochondria myopothy (sp?) and was put on depakote. but i've noticed none of my systems listed under valproic acid, i.e., weakness in legs and muscles, and inability to walk or stand for any length of time. any help would be appreciated.
Brief Answer:
Depakote used when seizures are present, not for muscle weakness.
Detailed Answer:
I read your question carefully and I understand your concern.
Your remark is right, Depakote doesn't help with your weakness and inability to stand. It is an antiepileptic medication, used to prevent seizures. Mitochondrial myopathy may in many patients manifest seizures alongside muscle weakness, and it is in such cases that medication like Depakote is used to prevent seizure recurrence. So its use makes sense if you have had seizures, otherwise if that is not your case I do not see any benefit in its use.
Unfortunately there is no proven treatment for mitochondrial myopathy. There are some supplements which may be tried like creatine, L-carnitine or coenzyme Q10. They are natural supplements sold over the counter. As I said their benefit is not proven, still under study, but there have been reports of some mild benefit and since they are safe may be tried.
I remain at your disposal for other questions.
Depakote used when seizures are present, not for muscle weakness.
Detailed Answer:
I read your question carefully and I understand your concern.
Your remark is right, Depakote doesn't help with your weakness and inability to stand. It is an antiepileptic medication, used to prevent seizures. Mitochondrial myopathy may in many patients manifest seizures alongside muscle weakness, and it is in such cases that medication like Depakote is used to prevent seizure recurrence. So its use makes sense if you have had seizures, otherwise if that is not your case I do not see any benefit in its use.
Unfortunately there is no proven treatment for mitochondrial myopathy. There are some supplements which may be tried like creatine, L-carnitine or coenzyme Q10. They are natural supplements sold over the counter. As I said their benefit is not proven, still under study, but there have been reports of some mild benefit and since they are safe may be tried.
I remain at your disposal for other questions.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
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