"i have been on depakote since june of 2006. i was initially started off at 1000mg and am now up to 1500mg. when i told my neurologist i want off it she increased the dosage to 1500mg. i take it for epilepsy but have had similar problems as you all. i am 24  years old and am now balding. i have decreased ambition and have difficulty with memory and paying attention. i have gained about 50 pounds since starting it. last year when my prescription was raised from 1000 to 1500mg i noticed a 15 lb increase in about a month. i am however not having any seizures."