About 12 years ago, I was given Depakote as a treatment for bipolar disorder. The doctor told me this was not intended to be long-term treatment, but to help me through the current crisis. I noticed no significant side-effects at the time, and completed the treatment several months later (it was accompanied by psychotherapy and counseling). I am wondering if there are any long-term effects that can result from something taken so long ago. I am also wondering if it would be advisable to begin taking it again (under doctor s orders) to help me through another crisis, or if there is a better alternative.