I have been on topamamx for over 9-10 months now after gaining weight previosly on depakote. I have bi-polar and fibro and migraines too. I did research myself and took the medicine to my doctor and requested to be put on it. I looked at the side effects, but once you reach "your" dosage the side effects disappear. It was worth it. I lost over 50 lbs, haven't had a migraine the entire time and have great management of my bi-polar, but read everything you can online and educate yourself...and choose what is best for you I was willing to risk a few side effects for the bigger relief. Only you can decide that.