Thursday DH has a follow up appt with geriatrician from this new center I have him in now. What goes for a memory center out here in Northwest Arkansas. He's seen her once and then two weeks ago saw a neuropsych at same place for neuropsych testing. He has had three over the past years but I stopped them a couple years ago as it upset him since they were so difficult. Anyway, long story on needing to find a good doctor but this center is highly recommended so have some hope as his local primary care doctor is just NOT GOOD (enough said).

DH has been having some rages again with some verbal violence and has shoved me. He did this a few years ago but either came out of it or I just learned how to avoid, distract, etc. or combination of both. Anyway, I mentioned this to the neuropsychologist and she said the doctor we are seeing Thursday will probably prescribe a mood stabilizer.

She mentioned Depakote (sp?). I know many of you are using Seroquel I think but not sure of Depakote. When I mentioned Seroquel to her she said something about the side effects of tardive dyskinesia.

What should I know before talking with the doctor on Thursday regarding treatment for the anger/rages?

Many physicians prescribe depakote first to stabilize aggression. Depakote is typically used in patients who have seizures and is a mood stavilizer as well. One of the main issues with Depakote is its impact on liver enzymes. They can become dangerously high while taking the medicine, therefore close monitoring of his liver enzymes thru routine blood tests are required. It can be effective for many dementia sufferers, unfortunately my dh had high liver enzymes and had to discontinue using it. He's now on Seroquel which has its own risks.

for jackie

Thanks, divvi.....I'm reading all about depakote.