Depakote and dilantin

I have been taking Depakote / Dilantin cocktails for over 10 years !! 600mg Dilantin and 3000mg Depakote every day !! If I miss a few pills or a dosage
I will inevitably have a traumatic grand mal seizure. The funny thing is, I have not experienced many of the side effects you guys speak of. I have gained some weight in the last few years (20lbs), but I'm also getting to that age ( 49 ) where guys put on a few pounds.

It is very scary knowing that my body (brain) could be this screwed-up !!
I wish my wife was more understanding about this - although its tough for her too...

I was recently taken off Dilantin and given Depakote ER. I had a terrible reaction at first. Seizure episodes, nausea, loss of memory, etc. I was told that this was a "transitional reaction". Have been on Depakote ER for two weeks and am exhausted all the time. I have bursts of energy but this dissipates quickly. Still have loss of memory and bizarre dreams.

I came off Dilantin and started taking Depakote in August. I have gained a ton of weight and can't get up in the mornings either. There has got to be a better way. The wrost thing now is when I take a shower I have to pick up a wad of hair off the floor of the shower. I need help!