Unfortunately every med out there has a laundry list of side effects. The question is, are the side effects you actually experience worth the pay-off of the med. Does it help stabilize your mood and your life enough to be worth the weight gain, potential rash, tremors, kidney impact, etc. That little list doesn't even scratch the surface of potential side effects that come with these meds. We have to volunteer as Guinea pigs with these meds to find out if they even help in the first place. Then we decide if we can live with the side effects, the down side, of medications. When the med is prescribed off label, like yours is, that can be even more questionable. It could also be just what you need. It could lead to you being the most stable you've ever been. You won't know what it can do for you until you try it. I've been remarkably stable for over 2 years now and I'm so glad i tryed something new and different. But if you feel the risk is to great, I suggest you talk with your med provider about some other alternatives. I wish you the best on your journey.😁