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Reviews Index » Medications

Depakene (valproic acid)

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5

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Depakene®

Generic Name: Valproic Acid val-PROE-ik AS-id

Drug Class: Anticonvulsants, diavalproex

Contents

Description
General Information
Proper Use
Missed Dose
Storage
Side Effects
Warnings/Precautions
Overdose
Drug Interactions
Pregnancy/Nursing
More Information

Description

This medicines primary use is to prevent seizures. (anticonvulsant) It is also approved to treat bipolar disorder and for prevention of migraine headaches.
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General Information

This information is for educational purposes only. Not every known side effect, adverse effect, or drug interaction is in this database. If you have questions about your medicines, talk to your healthcare provider.

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Proper use of this medicine

Usual dosing is once daily. The tablets should be swallowed whole and not crushed or chewed. Depakote sprinkle capsules may be swallowed whole or capsule contents may be sprinkled onto any soft food. Carefully open capsule. Place ALL sprinkles into a small amount of food (about a teaspoonful) of soft food such as applesauce or pudding. Make sure all of the sprinkle/food mixture is swallowed immediately. Chewing should be avoided. Drink fluids right after for easier swallowing. Never store mixture for future use.
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Missed Dose

Take your next dose as soon as you remember. If it is time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule. Do not double doses.
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Storage

Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture. Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed.
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Possible Side Effects

Talk to your doctor if these side effects become severe:
dizziness
drowsiness
nervousness
hair loss (alopecia)
If you experience other bothersome side effects, contact your health care provider.

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Warnings/Precautions

Divalproex should be used cautiously by patients with liver disease and by the elderly.
Also, this medication should NOT be abruptly discontinued, due to the possibility of life-threatening seizure activity.

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Overdose

Seek medical attention immediately. U.S. residents can call the national poison hotline at 1-800-222-1222. Canadian residents should call their local poison control center directly.
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Drug Interactions

Divalproex effects may be increased by erythromycin, cimetidine, salicylates, and decreased by carbamazepine.

This drug may increase the effects of diazepam, phenytoin, and warfarin.

Before taking any new prescription or over-the-counter medicine, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.

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Pregnancy/Nursing

Divalproex can cause fetal damage during the first trimester and should not be used during pregnancy if other options are available. Small amounts of divalproex have been shown to be excreted in breast milk, so should be used with caution while breastfeeding.
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More Information

For more information about this medicine, talk to your healthcare provider.
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This information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions, or adverse effects. This is general information and should not in any event be construed as specific instructions for individual patients. The publisher does not accept any responsibility for the accuracy of the information or the consequences arising from the application, use, or misuse of any of the information contained herein, including any injury and/or damage to any person or property as a matter of product liability, negligence, or otherwise. No warranty, expressed or implied, is made in regard to the contents of this material. The reader is advised to check with their health care provider before making any changes in their drug regimen.

Last reviewed:

On 8 Aug 2006

By John M. Grohol, Psy.D.

Please Read the Disclaimer About the Validity of These Ratings

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My Support Forums - Mental Health Support Groups

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Depakene (valproic acid)

5

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