Indications 

Depakote is a medication that modulates chemicals in the body that may be associated with the occurrence of seizures.  

Indicated for the treatment of various types of seizure disorders and can be used in conjunction with other antiepileptic drugs.  

Depakote is recommended for individuals aged 10 years and above with epilepsy. Also used in adults to prevent migraine headaches and to manage manic episodes associated with bipolar disorder. 

Uses and Dosage 

Recommended to thoroughly read the medication guide or information leaflet provided with the product before taking any prescription drug. To ensure proper use and to address any concerns or questions, consult with a doctor or pharmacist. 

When taking this tablet orally, take it with a meal to prevent stomach upset. The oral tablet should be swallowed whole with a glass of water and should not be chewed or split, as it may cause irritation to the mouth and throat. 

To avoid missing doses, take this medication regularly and according to the prescribed schedule. The dosage should not be altered because this medication is determined by various factors such as age, weight, medical condition, and other medications being taken.  

Do not stop taking this drug suddenly to prevent withdrawal symptoms like anxiety, irritability, dizziness, tremors, and recurrence of manic and depressive episodes. 

Side Effects 

Allergic Reactions

Signs of a severe allergic reaction or skin reaction: 

• Hives
• Difficult breathing
• Swelling in the face or throat 
• Fever
• Sore throat
• Burning eyes
• Skin pain
• Red or purple skin rash with blistering and peeling 

Severe Side Effects

Signs of serious drug reaction affecting many parts of your body: 

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

Signs of liver or pancreas problems: 

• Loss of appetite
• Upper stomach pain (that may spread to your back)
• Ongoing nausea or vomiting
• Dark urine
• Swelling in the face
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes) 

New or worsening symptoms to report to your doctor: 

• Mood or behavior changes
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Panic attacks
• Trouble sleeping
• Feeling impulsive
• Irritable
• Agitated
• Hostile
• Aggressive
• Restless
• Hyperactive (mentally or physically)
• Thoughts about suicide or hurting yourself 

Other side effects that require immediate medical attention: 

• Easy bruising, unusual bleeding (nose, mouth, or gums), purple or red pinpoint spots under your skin 
• Fever, swollen glands, mouth sores 
• Confusion, tiredness, cold feeling, vomiting, change in your mental state 
• Severe drowsiness 
• Worsening seizures 

Common Side Effects 

• Nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, diarrhea, constipation 
• Headache, back pain 
• Dizziness, drowsiness, weakness, tremors 
• Memory problems, mood changes, trouble sleeping 
• Bruising or bleeding 
• Runny nose, sore throat, cough, wheezing, trouble breathing 
• Fever, flu symptoms 
• Problems with walking or coordination 
• Swelling in your hands or feet 
• Blurred vision, double vision, unusual eye movements 
• Ringing in your ears 
• Rash, hair loss 
• Changes in weight or appetite 

Caution 

Do not use Depakote if you are allergic to divalproex sodium, or if you have liver disease, a urea cycle disorder, or a genetic mitochondrial disorder such as Alpers’ disease or Alpers-Huttenlocher syndrome, especially in a child younger than 2 years old. 

Divalproex sodium can cause liver failure that may be fatal, particularly in children under 2 years old and in people with liver problems caused by a genetic mitochondrial disorder. 

Notify your doctor if you have liver problems caused by a genetic mitochondrial disorder, depression, mental illness, suicidal thoughts or actions, or a family history of a urea cycle disorder or infant deaths with an unknown cause. 

Using Depakote during pregnancy can harm an unborn baby, but having a seizure during pregnancy could harm both mother and baby. Do not use Depakote to prevent migraine headaches if you are pregnant. 

Call your doctor immediately if the person taking this medication has signs of liver or pancreas problems, such as loss of appetite, upper stomach pain, nausea or vomiting, dark urine, swelling in the face, or jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes). 

If you take Depakote for seizures or manic episodes: 

• The benefit of preventing seizures or manic episodes may outweigh any risks posed by this medicine. There may be other medications that are safer to use during pregnancy. Do not start or stop taking this medicine without your doctor’s advice. 
• Some people have thoughts about suicide while taking Depakote. Your doctor will need to check your progress at regular visits. Your family or other caregivers should also be alert to changes in your mood or symptoms.