Just wanted to add my opinion of Topamax. I love it. It did make me a little dopey at first, but it did subside after a while. I was put on it to help lose weight from all I gained from Lithium and others. Also for the mood stabilization qualities. It really helps for both. I lost 25 pounds rather quickly. I take 150mg. Started with a low dose, made gradual increases. To date, I have lost a total of 70 pounds. My pdoc has to now monitor my weight because she doesn't want me to lose anymore.
I do owe some of the weight loss to Slim Fast and my own will power as well. But I never really exercized.
Great for moods too.