Depakote (Divalproex) from Maple Leaf Medications.

Depakote Uses

This medication is an oral medication used to manage manic episodes caused by bipolar disorder. Divalproex sodium is the generic name and active ingredient of this medication. It is used as a monotherapy or adjunct therapy of complex partial seizures and simple or complex absence seizures. It is also used as prophylaxis for migraine headaches.

This is available in Depakote 500 mg, 250 mg, and 125 mg tablet forms.

Depakote Mechanism of Action

This anti-epileptic agent works by dissociating to the valproate ion in the gastrointestinal or GI tract. Its effect is also thought to be related to increased brain concentrations of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). It also helps restore the balance of certain neurotransmitters in the brain.

How to use Depakote

Begin by reading the medication guide or information leaflet that comes with the product. Do not take any prescription drug if you have not fully understood the drug information and warnings in the guide provided. If you need medical advice regarding this treatment or have queries on how to properly use these tablets, you may ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Take this tablet orally. It will be best to take this medication with a meal to avoid stomach upset. Swallow the oral tablet whole and drink a glass of water right after. Do not chew or split this drug because doing so could irritate the mouth and throat.

Remember to take this medication regularly and exactly as prescribed. Make a dosing schedule to avoid missing your doses. Do not change your Depakote dosage since it is determined by your age, weight, medical condition, reaction to treatment, and other drugs you are taking. Further, do not stop taking this drug abruptly to avoid depakote withdrawal. Symptoms of withdrawal are anxiety, irritability, dizziness, tremors, and return of manic and depressive episodes.

Side Effects of Depakote

Common side effects:

• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Stomach upset
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Blurred vision
• Hair loss
• Weight changes
• Tremors
• Ringing in the ears

This drug is typically associated with mild, temporary side effects. If the adverse reactions become worse or do not get better, you may have to hold this anti-epileptic and call your doctor or any healthcare professional. Also, you should report side effects that are severe like:

• Mental or mood problems
• Severe vomiting
• Unexplained weakness
• Chest pain
• Easy bruising and bleeding
• Irregular heartbeat
• Swelling of extremities
• Uncontrolled eye movement or nystagmus
• Shivering
• Rapid breathing
• Loss of consciousness

This is not a full or complete list of Depakote side effects.

Precautions

Before you begin to use this oral medication, you must disclose your entire medical history to your doctor, especially metabolic disorders, pancreatitis, high blood pressure, liver disorders, alcohol abuse, bleeding problems, kidney disease, dementia, dehydration, and poor nutrition. Some diseases and conditions may affect how you will respond to this drug. Additionally, you should talk about all the prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, herbal products, and supplements you are using, for they may have drug interactions with this medication’s active ingredient.

While on this treatment, watch out for allergic reactions. Do not take this prescription drug if you have a known allergy to divalproex sodium or any inactive ingredients each tablet may contain. Immediately discontinue this medication and alert your local emergency line once you experience signs of hypersensitivity response, such as hives, swelling of the face and neck, rashes, severe dizziness, and breathing trouble.

Practice safety precautions when using sharp metals or objects like knives, nail cutters, and razors. You should also avoid playing contact sports or doing any activities that could increase your risk of getting bruised or injured.

Among the adverse effects of this oral medication are dizziness, drowsiness, and blurred vision. Limit or do not drink alcoholic beverages because Depakote and alcohol may interact and worsen the aforementioned adverse effects. You should also practice caution when doing activities that require alertness and clear vision, such as driving and using machinery.

Pregnant, those who plan to become pregnant, & breastfeeding moms must avoid this medication because of the possible harm that it may cause to unborn babies and nursing children. Always note that potential benefits should be greater than the potential risks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Depakote (divalproex sodium) an antipsychotic drug?

No, this is an anti-epileptic medication.

How long does it take for Depakote tablets to work?

It may take four hours for this medication to take full effect.

Can Depakote treat headaches?

This prescription drug is only indicated to prevent migraine headaches.

Does Depakote cause weight gain?

Yes, there is a direct link between Depakote & weight gain.

How much does Depakote cost?

You may check for the prices of this medicine from this page.