Confused about Lithium vs Depakote in Bipolar

My understanding is that both medications work better in acute mania than bipolar depression. However CANMAT seems to indicate good efficacy of both in bipolar depression. Though I've heard that VPA is better for mixed episodes. All things being equal how do you weigh starting Li vs VPA in a patient with no contraindications for either. Do you choose one over another based on presenting symptoms?
Source: Student Doctor Network - Category: Universities & Medical Training Authors: Tags: Psychiatry Source Type: forums