Depakote

Depakote (divalproex) is a medication used to treat bipolar disorder and epilepsy. It is also used to prevent migraine headaches. Depakote works by stabilizing the level of neurotransmitters in the brain. It is available in tablet, sprinkle capsule, and liquid form.

Depakote may be used as monotherapy or adjunctive therapy. Monotherapy is when Depakote is used alone to treat a condition. Adjunctive therapy is when Depakote is used in combination with other medications to treat a condition.

Bipolar disorder is a mental illness that causes extreme mood swings. Epilepsy is a neurological condition that causes seizures. Migraine headaches are a type of headache that is characterized by intense throbbing or pulsing in one area of the head. Depakote is FDA-approved for the treatment of bipolar disorder, epilepsy, and migraines.

Depakote may be habit-forming. Depakote should be used only by the person for whom it was prescribed. Depakote should never be given to another person, even if they have the same condition. Depakote may be abuse-prone. Depakote should be stored in a secure place where it will not be accessed by others.

Depakote may cause side effects. The most common side effects of Depakote include: dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, blurred vision, diplopia, tremor, and hair loss. Depakote may also cause more serious side effects. More serious side effects of Depakote include: liver damage, pancreatitis, decreased platelet count, and decreased white blood cell count. Depakote may also cause birth defects. If you experience any of these side effects, you should contact your healthcare provider.

Depakote may interact with other medications. Before taking Depakote, you should tell your healthcare provider if you are taking any other medications, including over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Depakote may interact with other medications, including: anticoagulants, aspirin, barbiturates, carbamazepine, felbamate, lithium, phenytoin, primidone, valproate, and zonisamide. Depakote may also interact with other medications, including: alcohol, barbiturates, felbamate, and zonisamide. You should avoid or limit the use of alcohol while taking Depakote. Depakote may increase the effects of other medications that cause drowsiness, including: antidepressants, antihistamines, barbiturates, sedatives, and sleeping pills.

Depakote may cause other side effects. You should call your healthcare provider if you experience any other side effects. Depakote may interact with other medications. You should tell your healthcare provider if you are taking any other medications, including over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements.