Depakote

[Dallie]

I have a Mom of a newborn baby, whose Psychiatrist is looking to either start her on Depakote or Lithium for Bipolar disorder.
From what I read neither of these medications are recommended. Looking for guidance.

[admin]

Dallie:

Do not use Depakote (valproic acid) , aside from being teratogenic (spina Bifida), it is also well known to suppress IQ development in fetus and newborns. Use lithium or lamotrigine. Monitor plasma levels of these in the infant routinely.

Tom Hale Ph.D.