Anyone who is on/has been on Epilim?

I have had mood problems since I was little. Also, I was epileptic since infancy and on anticonvulsants since then. I was on Tegretol as a littlie, then Epilim as an adolescent until age 16, when I was able to go off my meds (no more fits). Since then, I've suffered from depression or extreme highs (bipolar), which only calm down when I pay VERY strict attention to my diet and other chemicals.

I noticed that when I went off Epilim I suddenly got motivated, energetic, stopped getting headaches and dizzy spells, and lost 8 kg (got skinny). So, I'm thinking it must have been sapping my energy somewhat.

I'm thinking of asking the doctor if I can go back on Epilim, for its mood stabilisation properties, but I don't want to become numbed or vague, like I used to be, and like I have seen another friend of mine become (who also has bipolar disorder). What is your experience of being on Epilim?

Does it make you vague and dreamy? Slow?

Does it sap your energy?

Does it make you feel wiped out when it is hot weather?

Please let me know what side effects you notice. Thank you.