Indications 

Depakene (valproic acid) is an antiepileptic medication for treating different types of seizure disorders. This is often used in combination with other seizure medications. 

Uses and Dosage 

Please review the Medication Guide and, if provided, the Patient Information Leaflet your pharmacist gave before you start taking valproic acid each time you refill your prescription. If you have any questions, consult your doctor or pharmacist. 

Take this medication orally as instructed by your doctor. If you experience stomach upset, you may take it with food. Swallow the capsule whole and avoid crushing or chewing it, which can irritate your mouth and throat. 

Valproic acid dosage is determined based on factors such as your age, weight, medical condition, response to treatment, and other medications you may be taking. Inform your doctor and pharmacist about all the products you use, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter drugs, and herbal products. Use this medication regularly to obtain the maximum benefit. Remember to take it simultaneously each day to maintain a constant level of the medicine in your bloodstream. 

If you use valproic acid for seizures, do not discontinue the medication without consulting your doctor. Stopping the drug suddenly can worsen your condition. Your dosage may need to be gradually reduced. 

Side Effects 

Allergic Reaction

Seek emergency medical assistance if you experience signs of an allergic reaction, such as: 

• Hives 
• Difficulty breathing 
• Facial or throat swelling 

Severe Side Effects

Similarly, seek immediate medical attention if you develop a severe skin reaction characterized by the following: 

• Fever 
• Sore throat 
• Burning eyes 
• Skin pain 
• Red or purple rash with blistering and peeling. 

Contact medical professionals if you encounter a severe drug reaction affecting multiple body parts. Symptoms may include:  

• Skin rash 
• Fever 
• Swollen glands 
• Muscle aches 
• Severe weakness 
• Unusual bruising 
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes 

Contact your doctor right away if the person taking this medication exhibits signs of liver or pancreas problems, including: 

• Loss of appetite 
• Upper stomach pain (radiating to the back) 
• Persistent nausea or vomiting 
• Dark urine 
• Facial swelling 
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes) 

Common Side Effects

Inform your doctor of any new or worsening symptoms, such as: 

• Changes in mood or behavior 
• Depression 
• Anxiety 
• Panic attacks 
• Sleep disturbances 
• Impulsiveness 
• Irritability 
• Agitation 
• Hostility 
• Aggression 
• Restlessness 
• Hyperactivity (mentally or physically) 
• Thoughts of self-harm or suicide 

Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following side effects: 

• Confusion, tiredness, cold sensation, vomiting, or changes in mental state 
• Easy bruising, unusual bleeding from the nose, mouth, or gums, or the appearance of purple or red pinpoint spots under the skin 
• Severe drowsiness 
• Worsening seizures 
• Older adults may be more susceptible to severe drowsiness 

Cautions 

Do not use valproic acid if you are allergic to it or if you have: 

• Liver disease 
• Urea cycle disorder 
• Genetic mitochondrial disorders, such as Alpers’ disease or Alpers-Huttenlocher syndrome, particularly in children under two years old 

Valproic acid can potentially cause liver failure, which can be life-threatening, especially in children under two years old and individuals with liver problems caused by a mitochondrial genetic disorder. 

Inform your doctor if you have a history of: 

• Liver problems caused by a mitochondrial genetic disorder 
• Depression, mental illness, or thoughts or actions of suicide 
• Family history of a urea cycle disorder or unexplained infant deaths 
• HIV or CMV (cytomegalovirus) infection 

When initiating valproic acid treatment, some young individuals may experience thoughts of suicide. Your doctor needs to monitor your progress during regular visits, and your family or caregivers should be vigilant in observing changes in your mood or symptoms.