Depakote

[peanutmommy]

Can Depakote cause a person to go into hypothyroidism? If it does and you go off depakote, does the problem correct itself or is it then a permanent problem? Anyone?

[sorrel]

It's rare. But possible, particularly with long-term treatment, for example here.

Because of the rarity, if you've only been on it short-term, I would initially suspect that you (or your kid?) has just spontaneously developed hypothyroidism, and it's unrelated to the Depakote. If it's from the Depakote it should go away once Depakote is stopped.

And you say in your subtitle that T4 has been affected -- what about TSH?

[peanutmommy]

Yes TSH. . .where'd I get T4 from? lol. It's been a long few days.

[AirMarshall]

If you have discovered a thryoid abnormality, be thankful. So many people have chronic untreated problems. The thyroid supplements have almost NO side effects and can make a world of difference in how you feel. I don't recall your dx, but historically about 30% of people with dx bipolar disorder have some sort of thyroid condition, regardless of their medications. Lithium has a reputiation for being associated with or unmasking thryoid problems.

Hope you feel better soon! It may take about 4-5 weeks for the supplements to kick in. The thyroid system is slow.

a.m.

[peanutmommy]

Not me. . .my son. He's got ADHD, RAD, ODD, and Mood Disorder NOS to name a few. I've emailed his PCM and I'm hoping to hear back from her soon.