"have been taking this med since 1992 w/ some breaks here and there. i too have been on, what would seem, every med for bipolar diagnosis. i take 1750mg and also take 400mg of lamictal (another mood stabilizer which seems to help with the depression) my only issue had been weight gain which remains a problem. 10 years stable, after being hospitalized for 8 months due to manic episode and psychotic break (was only taking topamax at that time). would highly recommend."