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Q: BP Meds & Osteoporosis
Can bipolar drugs cause osteoporosis? I had a test done for osteoporosis
and my score was -2.4 I am on seroquel, topamax, synthroid and
birth control. I have been on depakote, lithium and every antidepresant ever
invented. I am only 25 so I shouldn't have this problem. Thanks!
Dear Elizabeth --
There is
evidence from women who have been treated for epilepsy that, yes,
long-term use of Depakote (Tegretol is worse though) is associated with
decreased bone density in some folks. If you've been on Depakote for a long
time, that might be related in your case. There is also some evidence that
long-term mood disorder itself -- e.g multiple episodes of depression -- can
be associated with decreased bone density (e.g.
this study; and
this review). So it's not the medications for sure; they could be part of
the problem but aren't necessarily the whole problem.
Dr. Phelps
Published August, 2003
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