What is Depakene/Valproic Acid used for?

This medicine is used alone or with other medicines to treat certain types of seizures.

If you have any questions about your medicine, please talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider. This medicine 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 this medicine. If you have any questions about your medicine, ask your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

How should Depakene/Valproic Acid be stored?

Store Capsule at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F.

General drug information:

When should Depakene/Valproic Acid not be taken?

Do not take this medicine if you are allergic to any ingredient in this medicine you have liver disease or liver problems

What precautions should I follow when taking Depakene/Valproic Acid?

Before using this medicine, tell your health care provider about any of the following: if you are pregnant, plan on becoming pregnant, or breastfeeding if you are taking any prescription or nonprescription medicine if you have any other medical condition if you have liver problems

What special warning(s) should I be aware of when taking Depakene/Valproic Acid?

This medicine can cause severe liver and pancreatic damage. Discontinue use of this medicine and call your health care provider immediately if any of the following warning signs appear: abdominal pain, loss of appetite, nausea, and vomiting.

What are the side effects of Depakene/Valproic Acid?

Most severe:  Liver failure; inflammation of the pancreas; psychotic behavior; unusual bleeding or bruising; hearing loss.

Most common:  Nausea; vomiting; diarrhea; stomach cramps; constipation; changes in appetite/weight; drowsiness; changes in menstrual cycle.

Other:  Irritability; confusion; headache; rapid eye movement; double vision; "spots before eyes"; slurred speech; dizziness; hair loss; sensitivity to sunlight; itching; hyperactivity; weakness.

How should I take Depakene/Valproic Acid?

How much medicine you take and how often you take it depends 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 the medicine you are taking, talk with your health care provider. Swallow Capsule whole to avoid possible mouth and throat irritation. Contact your doctor at once if any of the following occur: Loss of seizure control; general body discomfort; weakness; lack of energy; swelling of the face; loss of appetite; vomiting; unusual bleeding or bruising. If stomach upset occurs, take with food. Use caution while driving or performing other tasks requiring alertness, coordination, or physical dexterity. Avoid alcohol and other medicines that cause drowsiness (eg, pain relievers, sedatives). Lab tests will be required while taking this medicine. Be sure to keep appointments. See your doctor regularly. The doctor may want to adjust the dose for best results and to minimize side effects. Do not stop taking this medicine without checking with your health care provider. Patients with previous medical conditions should talk with their health care provider before taking this medication. Do not take more medicine than prescribed unless advised to do so by your doctor or health care provider. Do not take any other over-the-counter or prescription medicines without talking with your health care provider, including herbal preparations and dietary supplements. 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 doctor. If more than one dose is missed, contact your doctor or pharmacist.