Formulation:
Crystals, Tablet
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Manufacturer:
Abbott, Novopharm
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Alternate Names:Depakote (divalproex), Depakote ER (divalproex), Depakote ER (divalproex), Depakote Sprinkles (not available in Canada)
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What is Depakote (divalproex) used for? |
Depakote (divalproex) is used to treat various types of seizure disorders, to prevent migraine headaches, and to control mania associated with bipolar disorder.
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When should Depakote (divalproex) not be taken?
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Do not use Depakote (divalproex) if you are allergic to this or similar medicines or to any ingredient present in Depakote (divalproex). |
What precautions should I follow when taking Depakote (divalproex) ?
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Before using Depakote (divalproex), tell your health care provider about any of the following: if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding if you are taking any prescription or nonprescription medicine if you are taking any herbal products, if you are taking blood thinners if you have stomach problems if you have peptic ulcers if you have any other medical condition like liver or kidney function impairment, heart ot lung problem |
What special warning(s) should I be aware of when taking Depakote (divalproex)?
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It is reported that Depakote (divalproex) can cause liver failure, sometimes resulting in death. Children younger than 2 years of age, especially those taking multiple seizure medicines, those with metabolic diseases, those with mental retardation, and those with organic brain disease are at the highest risk of liver failure. Notify your doctor immediately if you develop loss of seizure control, weakness, fatigue, swelling of the face, vomiting, or loss of appetite. These symptoms may be early signs of liver damage. |
What are the side effects of Depakote (divalproex)?
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Most severe: An allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives), a rash, unexplained lethargy (fatigue), vomiting, or changes in mental status, unusual bleeding or bruising; or double vision or back-and-forth movements of the eyes.
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Most common: Tremor (shaking), weight gain, menstrual changes, hair loss, drowsiness or weakness, depression or other psychiatric changes, headache; or low red blood cells (anemia).
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Other: Loss of seizure control, weakness, fatigue, swelling of the face, vomiting, or loss of appetite.
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How should I take Depakote (divalproex)?
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How much medicine you take and how often you take it depend on many factors, including the condition being treated and the age and weight of the patient. If you have any questions about the amount and/or frequency of Depakote (divalproex) you are taking, talk with your health care provider. Do not stop taking Depakote (divalproex) without checking with your health care provider. Patients with previous medical conditions should talk with their health care provider before taking Depakote (divalproex). Do not take more medicine than prescribed unless advised to do so by your health care provider. Do not take any other over-the-counter or prescription medications without talking with your health care provider. If a dose is missed, take it as soon as possible. If several hours have passed or if it is nearing time for the next dose, do not double the dose to catch up, unless advised by your health care provider. If more than one dose is missed, contact your health care provider or pharmacist. Take each dose with a full glass of water. Take Depakote (divalproex) with food if it causes stomach upset. Do not crush, chew, or break the capsules or delayed- or extended-release tablets Swallow them whole. The sprinkle capsules can either be swallowed whole or opened and sprinkled onto some soft food such as applesauce or pudding. Your doctor may want you to have blood tests during treatment. It is important for your doctor to know how much medication is in your blood and how well your liver is working. Carry or wear a medical identification tag to let others know that you are taking Depakote (divalproex) in the case of an emergency.
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How should Depakote (divalproex) be stored?
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Store Depakote (divalproex) in a dry place at room temperature between 59° - 86°F. Keep out of reach of children and pets |
General Information:
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| If you have any questions about Depakote (divalproex), please talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider. Depakote (divalproex) is only to be used by the patient for whom it is prescribed. Do not give it to others. This information is advisory only. It does not contain all information about Depakote (divalproex). If you have any questions about Depakote (divalproex), ask your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.
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