Depakote ER has been confused with Depakote (no “ER” at the end of the name). This is
a different form of the same medicine
, but it needs to be taken more frequently than once a day. Depakote is considered a “delayed-release” medicine.
What is the generic for Depakote ER?
Divalproex sodium
What is divalproex sodium EC?
Divalproex sodium is used
to treat certain types of seizures (epilepsy)
. This medicine is an anticonvulsant that works in the brain tissue to stop seizures. Divalproex sodium is also used to treat the manic phase of bipolar disorder (manic-depressive illness) and helps prevent migraine headaches.
Is Depakote an ER?
Depakote ER is
a prescription medicine used to treat the symptoms of Mania, Epilepsy
and as prophylaxis for Migraine. Depakote ER may be used alone or with other medications. Depakote ER belongs to a class of drugs called Anticonvulsants, Other.
What is the difference between extended release and delayed release?
Delayed release: drug is released only at some point after the initial administration. Extended release:
prolongs the release to reduce dosing frequency
. These terms are also used by the pharmacopoeias and the FDA.
What are signs of Depakote toxicity?
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).
Should I take Depakote in the morning or at night?
A: You should take Depakote at a time of day when you can best remember to take it consistently—for instance,
in the morning with breakfast
or in the evening before you go to bed. Please see Full Prescribing Information with Medication Guide for the complete list of side effects.
How long does it take for Depakote ER to kick in?
Tablets take 4 hours to reach a peak
, Depakote sprinkles take just over three. Food can delay the absorption of Depakote (food has a more significant effect on the tablets compared with the sprinkles). It may take several weeks of regular dosing before an effect on mood or seizure frequency is reported.
Is 1000 mg Depakote too much?
The recommended starting dose of Depakote for the prevention of migraine is 250 mg twice daily. The dose may be increased until migraine control is achieved. The
maximum recommended dose is 1000 mg/day as needed
.
Does Depakote help with anger?
Valproic Acid/Depakote
®
may be helpful for decreasing severe anger and mood lability
, that does not respond to antidepressants.
How many hours apart should Depakote be given?
Since Depakote ER is generally taken
once every 24 hours
, they should allow an interval of about 12 hours before taking the second dose, and then resume a 24-hour schedule the next day. Patients who often forget doses may benefit from using a special pillbox or watch with an alarm.
What is Depakote ER 500 mg used for?
This medication is used to treat
seizure disorders, mental/mood conditions
(such as manic phase of bipolar disorder), and to prevent migraine headaches. It works by restoring the balance of certain natural substances (neurotransmitters) in the brain.
Can you cut Depakote delayed release?
Depakote Delayed-Release Tablets and Depakote ER should be
swallowed whole
and should not be crushed or chewed. Depakote tablets and capsules have a special coating to prevent the entire tablet from breaking down at the same time.
Is 500mg of Depakote a lot?
Depakote ER is indicated for prophylaxis of migraine headaches in adults. The recommended starting dose is 500 mg
once daily for 1 week
, thereafter increasing to 1000 mg once daily.
What happens when Depakote levels are too high?
Unusual weight gain or loss
.
Tremors
.
Blurred or double vision
, uncontrolled eye movements.
What are the long term effects of taking Depakote?
What are the potential long-term effects of taking Depakote? Depakote
can cause liver damage
, and the risk is more likely to occur during the first 6 months of taking the medication.
