Has anyone taking Depakote?

[lyneebee]

My neurologists prescribed me to take depakote due to my constant headaches which comes from pressure sensations that feel like pinpricks and needles penetrating my brain . Honestly, I have fears of taking more medications other than coumadin because of my previous 2 hospitalizations that caused me to bleed (G.I.), that lead to craniotomy due to a subdural hematoma. Before taking this, I want to know from anyone if you experienced relief or side effects. My doctor said my INR may go up or down but he advised me to closely monitor my INR and adjust it if necessary.
Thanks for your advise or opinion.
Lyneebee

 

[Lisa in Katy]

My mom took it for seizure disorders. I wonder about it being prescribed with Coumadin, because she had to be monitored regularly because it lowered her platelet count and platelets and clotting go together. If you move this to the Anti-Coagulation forum, Al would probably see it and I'm sure he knows something about this drug or at least how low platelets and Coumadin would work.

I found this warning on the website depakote.com.

"Some people taking DEPAKOTE may experience low blood platelet counts. Your doctor should order blood tests to check your platelets while you are taking DEPAKOTE."

 

[Christina]

Depakote

Depakote

I know someone who was given "Depakote" for "Bipolar/Manic Depressive" order. This person had to have regular blood tests done to check platelets.