DIVALPROEX SODIUM ENTERIC-COATED TABLET - ORAL
PHONETIC PRONUNCIATION: (dye-VAL-pro-ex SO-dee-um)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Depakote
GENERIC NAME(S): divalproex sodium
Uses
USES: This medication is used to treat seizure disorders, certain psychiatric conditions (manic phase of bipolar disorder), and to prevent migraine headaches. It works by restoring the balance of certain natural substances (neurotransmitters) in the brain.
How to use DIVALPROEX SODIUM ENTERIC-COATED TABLET - ORAL
HOW TO USE: Read the Medication Guide and, if available, the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist before you start taking divalproex sodium and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist. Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor. You may take it with food if stomach upset occurs. Swallow the tablet whole. Do not crush or chew the tablet, which can irritate the mouth or throat. The dosage is based on your age, weight, medical condition, response to treatment, and other medications you may be taking. Be sure to tell your doctor and pharmacist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products). Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Remember to use it at the same time each day to keep the amount of medication in your blood constant. If this medication is used for seizures, do not stop taking it without consulting your doctor. Your condition may become worse if the drug is suddenly stopped. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased. Divalproex sodium does not relieve acute migraine headaches. Take other medications as directed by your doctor for acute attacks. Inform your doctor if your condition does not improve.
Side Effects
Precautions
Interactions
Overdose
Images
- color
- salmon pink
- shape
- oblong
- imprint
- logo and NT
Reviews
Faq for DIVALPROEX SODIUM ENTERIC-COATED TABLET - ORAL
Divalproex Sodium Enteric-Coated Tablet is used to treat certain types of seizures (epilepsy) and prevent migraine headaches.
Divalproex Sodium works by increasing the levels of a certain natural substance in the brain that helps prevent seizures and migraine headaches.
Common side effects may include drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, stomach upset, diarrhea, and hair loss. Consult your doctor if any of these side effects persist or worsen.
Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor. Swallow the tablet whole, do not crush or chew it. The dosage is based on your condition and response to treatment. It is important to follow your doctor's instructions carefully.
It is generally recommended to avoid alcohol consumption while taking Divalproex Sodium as it may increase the risk of side effects such as drowsiness and liver problems. Consult your doctor for specific guidance.
Divalproex Sodium can cause harm to an unborn baby, especially during the first trimester of pregnancy. It is important to discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
Divalproex Sodium can interact with various medications, including birth control pills, antidepressants, anticoagulants, and certain antibiotics. Inform your doctor about all the medications you are currently taking to avoid possible drug interactions.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
The response to Divalproex Sodium can vary from person to person. It may take several weeks or even months to experience the full benefits of the medication. Follow your doctor's instructions and be patient.
Warning
WARNING: Rarely, this medication has caused serious (sometimes fatal) liver problems, usually within the first 6 months of starting treatment. Laboratory tests should be performed before you start treatment and periodically during treatment, especially within the first 6 months, to monitor this side effect. The risk of serious liver problems is increased in children younger than 2 years, especially if they have an inherited metabolic disorder, severe seizure disorder with mental retardation, organic brain disease, or if they take more than one seizure medication. Talk with the doctor about the risks and benefits of using this medication in children younger than 2 years. Due to an increased risk for liver problems, people with certain inherited metabolic disorders (such as Alpers-Huttenlocher syndrome) should not use this medication. Children younger than 2 years who might have these disorders should not use this medication. Children older than 2 years who might have these disorders should be closely monitored during treatment with divalproex sodium. Talk to your doctor for details. This medication has rarely caused severe (sometimes fatal) disease of the pancreas (pancreatitis). This may occur at any time during treatment and can quickly worsen. Tell your doctor right away if you develop symptoms of liver problems or pancreatitis such as unusual tiredness, weakness, swelling of the face, stomach/abdominal pain, loss of appetite, dark urine, yellowing eyes/skin, or persistent nausea/vomiting. Taking this medication during pregnancy can cause birth defects and may lower your child's IQ. Women of childbearing age should discuss the risks and benefits of this medication, other treatment options, and use of reliable forms of birth control with their doctor. If you are planning pregnancy, become pregnant, or think you may be pregnant, immediately talk to your doctor. If you are taking divalproex sodium only to prevent migraine headaches, this medication must not be used during pregnancy. If you are taking divalproex sodium to treat seizures or mental/mood problems (such as bipolar disorder), do not stop taking this medication unless directed by your doctor. Untreated seizures and mental/mood problems (such as bipolar disorder) are serious conditions that can harm both a pregnant woman and her unborn baby.
Disclaimer
IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.
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