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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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How Can Depression And Bi-polar Disorder Be Treated?

Hi My mother in law is on depakote for bi-polar disorder however she is always depressed not the manic side. Recently she was taking 2 pills a day and complaining of being tired. The dr. told her to take one a day but she kept taking 2. now she has run out. Is this the correct medication for her diagnosis? She is also on ambien for sleeping. She s 87 yrs. old
Fri, 30 Mar 2018
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General & Family Physician 's  Response
Hello,

Depakote drug contains valproate which is given in bipolar patients. But she shouldn't be taking it more than 500 mg once a day considering her age.

It also has to be determined that whether she has bipolar or severe depression considering she never had any manic episode. You can discuss this with her psychiatrist.

If she has depression, then she has to be put on antidepressants like Sertraline drug.

Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. Nazma Amman
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How Can Depression And Bi-polar Disorder Be Treated?

Hello, Depakote drug contains valproate which is given in bipolar patients. But she shouldn t be taking it more than 500 mg once a day considering her age. It also has to be determined that whether she has bipolar or severe depression considering she never had any manic episode. You can discuss this with her psychiatrist. If she has depression, then she has to be put on antidepressants like Sertraline drug. Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Nazma Amman