Doc.'s dont make $ off your WELLBEING! - Bipolar Disorder Message Board

SaFIREeyedAngel · 08-29-2003, 04:58 PM

OK--I'm new to the forum's...BUT I already have a querry. I went in a few weeks ago for my blood work. (I'm on depakote and have been for nearly 5 yrs.) Anyway, the next app. I had with my doc. she told me that my level was a little high;but I'd be okay!
I returned later after my last blood-lab and it was up to around 120!! ((She hardly sounded concerned)) and told me to call her if I had any problems...
This was very disturbing. I got to thinking...you know all the bad-stuff that has reportedly been said to have happened to people on this med. well 20 yrs from now I might possibly be in desperate need of a liver transplant..while my DOC.JECKLE is living large. (poo with all my money in her pocket...why would she want me off of it after all it's not her liver or health for that matter that's at stake here!!
Does anyone know a reasonable level? Am I overreacting? Where do I go from here?? any advice will be greatly appreciated! Thanx for your time!!

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littlebernier · 09-02-2003, 07:35 AM

My psychiatrist said that normal levels are between 80-120. However, he did indicate, that these numbers are for what the drug was intended for (epilepsy/seizures) and not for bi-polar illness. He said that those tests have not been completed. I can tell you that my levels have fluctuated over the past several months. If you drink alcohol or take any over the counter medicines before your blood work, that can interact with the drug levels showing up in your blood.

I hope this information helps.

LB

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