I have taken Depakote years ago for BiPolar Disorder. I gained 30 pounds in 2 months. I have no history of obesity, I was a skinny kid, and I never carried much fat until my pregnancies. But this drug increased my appetite to a point of ravenous hunger. I felt driven to eat even when I was asleep. I had to throw something, anything into my stomach, just so the rumblings would stop, and I could get back to sleep again. It was horrible.
Many psychiatric medications are notorious for causing weight gain. Although there are numerous research studies under way trying to figure this out, the mechanism by which mood medications increase appetite and weight is not clear. Recently, however, research points to the histamine receptor as the culprit.
In any case, I'd rather be crazy than fat, so I stopped taking it. I lost the weight, but I lapsed into a manic episode that lasted several weeks.
What I didn't realise back then, is the importance of diet and exercise to people taking this drug. Most doctors can't answer why this happens. So, what I did was educate myself a bit on the fundamentals of clean eating and good nutrition (the food pyramid is CRAP)
Increase your protein, a LOT. At LEAST 1gram per pound of bodyweight. Protein fills you up and lasts longer so you keep hunger at bay.
No processed carbs AT ALL! This is hard, but it works. The cravings go away after a month or so, I promise!
Cut out sugar, but I eat plenty of fruits to satisfy my sweet tooth.
Fat is your friend, as long as it comes from olive oil, nuts and seeds. Don't overdo it though.
Don't try taking antihistamines to counteract the side effects. Tried it, doesn't work.
There are many newer generations of anti seisure meds that have fewer side effects of weight gain. Ask your doctor about trying them.
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