Safely Buy Depakene ( Valproic Acid ) from Canada Prescriptions Plus.

Indications

Depakene is a prescription medication that contains the active ingredient valproic acid. It is an anticonvulsant medication used to treat various seizure disorders, including simple and complex absence seizures.

Depakene works by increasing the levels of the neurotransmitter GABA (gamma aminobutyric acid) in the brain, which helps to reduce abnormal electrical activity in the brain that can cause seizures.

Valproic acid is used to treat bipolar disorder and to prevent migraine headaches.

Use and Dosage

Read the Medication Guide and, if available, the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist before you start taking valproic acid 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 capsule whole. Do not crush or chew the capsule, 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 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.

This medication 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

Side Effects are based on clinical trials and may not reflect all possible side effects of this drug. If you experience any side effects not listed here, tell your doctor right away.

Common side effects include:

• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Headaches
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Indigestion
• Fatigue
• Somnolence
• Weight gain

If any of these side effects are extremely bothersome or do not go away, contact your doctor for advice. In some rare cases, some serious side effects may occur.

Serious side effects include:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Mood changes
• Increase in seizures
• Hallucinations
• Sudden urination
• Hypothermia
• Abdominal pain
• Rapid heartbeat
• Severe flu-like symptoms
• Hyperammonemia (High ammonia levels in the bloodstream): fatigue, weakness, irritability, appetite changes, mood changes
• Hypothermia: shivers, slurred speech, weak pulse, confusion, shortness of breath.
• Kidney problems: nausea, vomiting, increased thirst, blood in urine, edema, dark urine, jaundice
• Liver disease: Itchy skin, nausea, loss of appetite, dark urine, jaundice

Cautions

Before taking valproic acid, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to divalproex or valproate sodium; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients (such as peanut oil), which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: liver disease, pancreatitis, certain metabolic disorders (such as urea cycle disorders, Alpers-Huttenlocher syndrome), alcohol abuse, bleeding problems, brain disease (dementia), kidney disease, dehydration, poor nutrition.

To lower the chance of getting cut, bruised, or injured, use caution with sharp objects like razors and nail cutters, and avoid activities such as contact sports.

Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

This drug may make you dizzy, drowsy, or blur your vision. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make you more dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness or clear vision until you can do it safely. Avoid alcoholic beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis).

Children younger than 6 years may be at greater risk for liver problems and pancreatitis.

Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, especially drowsiness, dizziness, unsteadiness, or tremor. Drowsiness, dizziness, and unsteadiness can increase the risk of falling.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. You should not become pregnant while using valproic acid. Valproic acid may harm an unborn baby. If you become pregnant, talk to your doctor right away about the risks and benefits of this medication. See also the Warning section.

This medication passes into breast milk. While there have been no reports of harm to nursing infants, consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

Form and Strengths

Depakene is available in the following form and strengths:

Depakene DR (Delayed Release) Capsule:

• 250 mg
• 500 mg

FAQ

How should I take valproic acid?

Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose. Use the medicine exactly as directed.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the medicine as soon as you can but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at one time.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention.

What should I avoid while taking valproic acid?

Drinking alcohol may increase certain side effects of valproic acid.

Avoid driving or hazardous activity until you know how valproic acid will affect you. Your reactions could be impaired.

Resources:

1. https://www.drugs.com/pro/depakene.html
2. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2009/018081s047,018082s032lbl.pdf
3. https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-9702-19/depakene-oral/valproic-acid-oral/details