Depakote Side Effects
From Pharmacy Drug Guide
Depakote, a brand of prescription medication divalproex sodium, is a compound of sodium valproate and valproic acid. Depakote is classified as an anticonvulsant drug, and it has multiple uses in medicine. Depakote is mainly prescribed to treat seizures, manic episodes in bipolar patients, and migraine headaches. It may also sometimes be used to treat aggressive behavior among children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. or ADHD, chorea, and certain cognitive conditions. Side effects caused by Depakote can include, but are not limited to, tiredness, dizziness, changes in mood or thinking, loss of memory, uncontrolled movement and vision changes.[1] Forms of Depaktote include Depakote ER and Depakote Sprinkle Capsules.[2]
 Depakote | |
| Brand name for | Divalproex sodium |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Abbott Labs and others. |
| Generics available? | Yes[3] |
| Uses | To control seizures, migraine headaches and manic episodes.[2] |
| Common side effects | Drowsiness, dizziness, headache, diarrhea, constipation, heartburn, changes in appetite, weight changes, back pain.[4] |
| Who should not take Depakote | Those alllergic to divalproex sodium, have liver disease or a condition called urea cycle disorder, which may cause too much ammonia to build up in the body.[5] |
| Disclaimer | The information provided by PharmacyDrugGuide.com is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Do not take any action based on the information on this page without consulting a physician. |
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Common Depakote Side Effects
Some of the most common side effects of divalproex sodium are drowsiness, bowel issues, upset stomach, infections such as bronchitis or the flu, bruises, altered mood or thought patterns, swelling in the limbs, ear ringing, shallow breathing, trouble walking straight or controlling various parts of the body, feelings of nervousness and depression.[2]
Some of the more serious side effects associated with Depakote, which may require the prompt attention of a medical professional, include unusual bleeding, small purple-colored spots on the body, high temperature, trouble breathing, trouble swallowing, feeling confused, blisters on the skin, thoughts of suicide or suicidal attempts.[1]
About Drug Side Effects
Depakote Allergic Reactions
Few patients who take Depakote will experience a severe allergic reaction to the drug. However, it is possible to be allergic to Depakote. In cases of serious allergic reactions, patients may experience dizziness, swollen face or throat, rashy skin and breathing problems. If any of these symptoms occur, patients are advised to contact a health care professional at once.[6]
Depakote Precautions and Warnings
In June, 2011 the FDA notified healthcare professionals that children born to mothers who take the anti-seizure medication valproate sodium during pregnancy have shown a decreased ability to perform on certain tests of cognitive function. Valproate sodium is one of the active ingredients in Depakote.[1] Studies have demonstrated that children of women who took valproate sodium or similar drugs throughout their pregnancy generally perform lower on cognitive tests, including IQ tests, than those born to women who took different anti-seizure medications while carrying their infants.[4]
Also See: Depakote Coupons, Abbott Patient Assistance programs, Depakote, Gabapentin, Gabapentin Coupons, Gabapentin Side Effects, Keppra Side Effects, Lyrica Coupons, Lyrica Side Effects, Neurontin Side Effects, Lyrica Coupons, Lamictal Free Samples, Lithium, Lithium Coupons, Lithium Side Effects
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References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/meds/a682412.html#why
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 http://www.depakoteer.com/prescribing-information.cfm
- ↑ http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cder/ob/docs/temptn.cfm
- ↑ 4.0 4.1 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0000677/
- ↑ http://www.depakoteer.com/
- ↑ http://www.webmd.com/drugs/drug-1788-Depakote+Oral.aspx?drugid=1788&drugname=Depakote+Oral
