Epival

I have been taking Epival for approx. 8 yrs. I have had epilepsy for 24 yrs and although I find that it does, in fact, control my seizures very well, the side effects are not so much fun. When I started the drug it took a while to get the dose right. I was overly tense, emotional, excited and couldn't sleep. Once the dose was adjusted I felt great until the weight gain. I went from my normal 175lbs to 240lbs. I ate everything in sight, retained fluid and basically looked like hell. I have managed to get my weight somewhat under control but its a constant battle. I look at it this way...I'm 41 yrs old, I work out 3 times a week, watch what I eat and make sure I get my bloodwork done when I should. I have never felt so emotionally level on any of the other meds I've been on and its really hard to consider giving up my emotional stability just because I have to work alittle harder to keep my body how I like it. It hurts sometimes when my vanity gets the best of me, but I love my life too much to give in and try another drug. I haven't had a seizure in almost 2 years and I wouldn't have even had that one if the Doc and I hadn't tried to see after 10yrs if I could go without the drugs:) If anyone has any tricks for the weight gain issue I'd love to hear it...Thanks!

Was on Zarontin50mg daily,for 5weeks, had to be weened ASAP experienced adverse reaction, went to the hospital shaking tremors and elevated blood pressure.Had been also been using epival750mg three times daily for nine years, but since i came off the zarontin i am experiencing headaches daily
and a funny feeling in my head when I go to sleep and two weeks before my menstrual cycle. I am wondering if my Epival should be increased decreased or discontinued.I am 44years old and I think I might be going through menopause, not sure if these symptoms maybe solely responsible?