Lithium+Valproate combination in bipolar disorder

I've seen a lot of psychiatrists in my neck of the woods prescribe lithium AND valproic acid to bipolar patients - usually in lower doses (i.e 600-900mg Lithium and 1g Depakote for a 160 pound male patient), which doesn't make a lot of sense to me - I'd rather just prescribe one in a higher dose and follow it up with serum concentration tests. Having said that, are there situations where it is recommended to associate Lithium and Valproic Acid, instead of focusing on third of fourth line... Read more
Source: Student Doctor Network - Category: Universities & Medical Training Authors: Tags: Psychiatry Source Type: forums