Depakote

Depakote (Divalproex)

Depakote

Divalproex Sodium tablet

What is it used for?

DIVALPROEX SODIUM is used to prevent seizures caused by the certain forms of epilepsy. It is also used to treat bipolar mania and to prevent migraine headaches.

What should I discuss with my physician prior to taking this medicine?

Please do tell your physician if you have any of the following conditions:

• blood disease
• brain damage or disease
• kidney disease
• liver disease
• low blood proteins
• suicidal thoughts, plans, or attempt; a previous suicide attempt by you or a family member
• urea cycle disorder (UCD)
• an unusual or allergic reaction to divalproex sodium, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How is this medicine should be taken?

Take this medicine orally accompanied with a drink of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. The capsules should never be crushed or chewed. If this medicine upsets your stomach, take it with food or milk. This medicine should be taken at the regular intervals. It should never be taken more often than prescribed.

Contact your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine by children. Special care might be necessary.

Overdosage: If you suspect an overdosage, get in touch with the nearest poison control center or emergency room immediately.

NOTE: This medicine is only intended for your use. You should never share it with the others.

What to do if I missed a dose?

If you missed a dose, it should be taken as soon as possible. If the time has almost come for the next dose, only that one should be taken. You should never take double or extra doses; a single doze is sufficient for the purposes.

What are the possible interactions with the other medicine/food/etc?

• aspirin
• barbiturates, like phenobarbital
• diazepam
• isoniazid
• medicines for depression, anxiety, or psychotic disturbances
• medicines that treat or prevent blood clots like warfarin
• meropenem
• other seizure medicines
• rifampin
• tolbutamide
• zidovudine

This list is not all-inclusive. Provide your health care provider with a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you are using. Also tell them whether you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some of those items may also interact with your medicine.

Is there anything I should pay attention to while taking it?

Pay regular visits to your doctor or health care professional to undergo checks on your progress. If you are taking this medicine to treat epilepsy (seizures), you should never stop taking it abruptly. Doing so would increase the risk of seizures. Wear a medical identification bracelet or chain to say you have epilepsy or seizures, and carry a card that lists all your medicines on you.

You may get drowsy, dizzy, or have blurred vision. You shouldn’t drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how exactly this medicine affects you. To reduce dizzy or fainting spells, do not sit or stand up quickly, especially if you are a senior patient. Alcohol can increase drowsiness and dizziness. Refrain from using alcohol at all costs.

This medicine can cause blood problems, including slow healing and higher risk of infection. Problems can arise if you need a dental work, and during the daily teeth care procedures. Try to avoid damaging your teeth and gums when you brush or floss your teeth.

This drug can make you more sensitive to the sun, that is why you should keep out of it during the treatment course. If sun can’t be avoided, at least wear protective clothes and always use a sunscreen.You shouldn’t use sun lamps or tanning beds/booths during the treatment course.

The use of this medicine may increase the chance of suicidal thoughts or actions. Pay special attention to how you are responding while on this medicine. Any worsening of mood, or thoughts of suicide or dying should be reported to your health care professional right away.

Does this medicine have any possible side effects?

The following side effects should be reported to your doctor or health care professional as soon as they are noticed:

• allergic reactions like skin rashes, itching or hives,face, lips, or tongue swelling
• changes in the frequency or severity of seizures
• double vision or uncontrollable eye movements
• nausea and vomiting
• redness, blistering, skin peeling or loosening, including inside the mouth
• stomach pain or cramps
• trembling of hands or arms
• unusual bleeding or bruising or pinpoint red spots on the skin
• unusual swelling of the arms or legs
• unusual weakness or feeling tired
• worsening of mood, thoughts or actions of suicide or dying
• yellowing of skin or eyes

The side effects listed below usually do not necessarily require any medical attention (please do report them to your physician if they are recurrent or bothersome):

• change in menstrual cycle
• diarrhea or constipation
• headache
• loss of bladder control
• loss of hair or unusual growth of hair
• loss or increase in appetite
• weight gain or loss

Other side effects are also possible, the above list is not all inclusive.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep this medicine out of the children’s reach.

This medicine should be stored at the room temperatures between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Keep container tightly closed. Dispose of any unused medicine after the expiry date is reached.