Safely Buy Depakote ER ( Divalproex ER ) from Canada Prescriptions Plus.

Indications

Depakote ER (extended release) is a brand name for divalproex sodium.

Depakote ER is a prescription medication used to treat seizure disorders, acute manic or mixed episodes associated with bipolar disorder, and to prevent migraine headaches.

Depakote ER works by increasing the level of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which is a neurotransmitter in the brain that helps to calm the nervous system.

Use and Dosage

Read the Medication Guide and, if available, the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist before you start taking Divalproex sodium 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 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

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction to Depakote (hives, difficulty breathing, swelling in your face or throat) or a severe skin reaction (fever, sore throat, burning eyes, skin pain, red or purple skin rash with blistering and peeling).

Seek medical treatment if you have a serious drug reaction that can affect many parts of your body. Symptoms may include skin rash, fever, swollen glands, muscle aches, severe weakness, unusual bruising, or yellowing of your skin or eyes.

Call your doctor at once if the person taking this medicine has signs of liver or pancreas problems, such as loss of appetite, upper stomach pain (that may spread to your back), ongoing nausea or vomiting, dark urine, swelling in the face, or jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).

Report any new or worsening symptoms to your doctor, such as mood or behavior changes, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, trouble sleeping, or if you feel impulsive, irritable, agitated, hostile, aggressive, restless, hyperactive (mentally or physically), or have thoughts about suicide or hurting yourself.

Call your doctor at once if you have any of these other side effects:

• Easy bruising, unusual bleeding (nose, mouth, or gums), or purple or red pinpoint spots under your skin
• Fever, swollen glands, or mouth sores
• Confusion, tiredness, cold feeling, vomiting, or change in your mental state
• Severe drowsiness
• Worsening seizures

Common Depakote side effects may include:

• Nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, diarrhea, or constipation
• Headache or back pain
• Dizziness, drowsiness, weakness, or tremors
• Memory problems, mood changes, or trouble sleeping
• Bruising or bleeding
• Runny nose, sore throat, cough, wheezing, or trouble breathing
• Fever or flu symptoms
• Problems with walking or coordination
• Swelling in your hands or feet
• Blurred vision, double vision, or unusual eye movements
• Ringing in your ears
• Rash or hair loss
• Changes in weight or appetite

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur.

Cautions

Before taking divalproex sodium, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or valproic acid or valproate sodium; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, 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 divalproex sodium. Divalproex sodium 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

Depakote ER is available in the following form and strengths:

• Depakote ER Tablet:
  • 250 mg
  • 500 mg
• Divalproex ER Tablet:
  • 125 mg
  • 250 mg
  • 500 mg
  • 750 mg
  • 1000 mg

FAQ

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 to avoid?

Drinking alcohol may increase certain side effects of Divalproex.

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

Resources:

1. https://www.drugs.com/depakote.html#side-effects
2. https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-1788/depakote-oral/details
3. https://www.depakote.com/