Divalproex Sodium
Complex Partial Epilepsy, Bipolar Disorder ... show more
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
NO
Pharmaceutical Class
Anti-epileptic Agent and Mood Stabilizer
Controlled Drug Substance
No
Summary
Divalproex sodium is used to treat epilepsy, which is a condition causing seizures, bipolar disorder, which involves mood swings, and to prevent migraines, which are severe headaches. It helps reduce the frequency and severity of these conditions by calming electrical activity in the brain.
Divalproex sodium increases gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which is a neurotransmitter that calms nerve activity in the brain. This action helps control seizures, stabilize mood, and prevent migraines by reducing the intensity of electrical signals in the brain.
Divalproex sodium is usually taken as tablets, once or twice daily, with or without food. The starting dose for adults is typically 250 mg to 500 mg. Your doctor may adjust the dose based on your needs. Always follow your doctor's specific dosing instructions.
Common side effects of divalproex sodium include nausea, which is feeling sick to your stomach, drowsiness, which is feeling sleepy, dizziness, which is feeling lightheaded, and weight gain. These effects can vary in severity and may not affect everyone.
Divalproex sodium can cause liver damage, especially in the first six months. Watch for symptoms like nausea or yellowing skin. It may increase pancreatitis risk, which is pancreas inflammation. It's not recommended during pregnancy due to birth defect risks. Avoid if you have liver disease or a known allergy to it.
Indications and Purpose
How does divalproex sodium work?
Divalproex sodium works by increasing the amount of a neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. GABA helps calm nerve activity, reducing seizures and stabilizing mood. Think of it like a dimmer switch that lowers the intensity of electrical signals in the brain. This action helps control seizures, mood swings, and prevent migraines. Always follow your doctor's instructions when taking this medication.
Is divalproex sodium effective?
Yes, divalproex sodium is effective for treating seizures, bipolar disorder, and preventing migraines. It works by stabilizing electrical activity in the brain. Clinical studies show it helps reduce the frequency and severity of seizures and mood swings. For migraines, it can decrease the number of headache days. Always follow your doctor's instructions to achieve the best results with this medication.
What is divalproex sodium?
Divalproex sodium is a medication used to treat seizures, bipolar disorder, and prevent migraines. It belongs to the class of drugs called anticonvulsants, which help stabilize electrical activity in the brain. By doing so, it reduces the frequency and severity of seizures and mood swings. It can be used alone or with other therapies, depending on your specific health needs. Always follow your doctor's instructions when taking this medication.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take divalproex sodium?
Divalproex sodium is usually a long-term medication for managing conditions like epilepsy, bipolar disorder, and migraine prevention. The duration of use depends on your specific health needs and how well you respond to the treatment. Always follow your doctor's instructions regarding how long to take this medication. Do not stop taking it without consulting your healthcare provider, as this could worsen your condition.
How do I dispose of divalproex sodium?
Dispose of divalproex sodium by taking it to a drug take-back program or collection site at a pharmacy or hospital. If that's not possible, mix the medication with something undesirable like used coffee grounds, seal it in a plastic bag, and throw it away in the trash. This helps prevent harm to people and the environment. Always keep medications out of reach of children and pets.
How do I take divalproex sodium?
Take divalproex sodium exactly as your doctor prescribes. It's usually taken once or twice daily, with or without food. Swallow the tablets whole; do not crush or chew them. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once. Avoid alcohol while taking this medication, as it can increase side effects. Always follow your doctor's specific instructions regarding diet and fluid intake while on this medication.
How long does it take for divalproex sodium to start working?
Divalproex sodium starts working in your body shortly after you take it, but it may take several days to weeks to notice its full effects. For seizures, you might see improvement within a few days. For mood stabilization in bipolar disorder, it may take a few weeks. The time it takes to work can depend on your condition and overall health. Always take it as prescribed for the best results.
How should I store divalproex sodium?
Store divalproex sodium at room temperature, away from moisture and light. Keep it in a tightly closed container to protect it from damage. Avoid storing it in humid places like bathrooms, as moisture can affect the medication's effectiveness. Always keep it out of reach of children and pets. Check the expiration date regularly and properly dispose of any unused or expired medication.
What is the usual dose of divalproex sodium?
The usual starting dose of divalproex sodium for adults is 250 mg to 500 mg taken once or twice daily. Your doctor may adjust your dose based on your response and needs. The maximum recommended dose is typically 60 mg per kilogram of body weight per day. For children or the elderly, dose adjustments may be necessary, and careful monitoring is required. Always follow your doctor's specific dosing instructions for your health needs.
Warnings and Precautions
Can divalproex sodium be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Divalproex sodium is not recommended while breastfeeding. It can pass into breast milk and may affect the baby. Potential effects on the infant include liver problems and low blood platelet levels. If you're taking divalproex sodium and want to breastfeed, talk with your doctor about safer medication options that would allow you to nurse your baby safely.
Can divalproex sodium be taken safely while pregnant?
Divalproex sodium is not recommended during pregnancy due to the risk of birth defects and developmental issues in the baby. It can cause neural tube defects, which are serious birth defects of the brain and spine. If you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant, talk with your doctor about safer alternatives. Your doctor can help create a treatment plan that protects both you and your baby.
Can I take divalproex sodium with other prescription drugs?
Divalproex sodium can interact with other medications, increasing the risk of side effects or reducing effectiveness. Major interactions include aspirin, which can increase bleeding risk, and certain antipsychotics, which can enhance side effects like drowsiness. Always inform your doctor about all medications you're taking to avoid potential interactions. They can help adjust your treatment plan to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Does divalproex sodium have adverse effects?
Yes, divalproex sodium can have adverse effects, which are unwanted reactions to a medication. Common adverse effects include nausea, drowsiness, and dizziness. Serious side effects can include liver damage, pancreatitis, and low blood platelet levels. If you notice symptoms like severe abdominal pain, yellowing of the skin, or unusual bleeding, seek medical attention immediately. Always inform your doctor about any new or worsening symptoms while taking divalproex sodium.
Does divalproex sodium have any safety warnings?
Yes, divalproex sodium has important safety warnings. It can cause liver damage, especially in the first six months of treatment. Watch for symptoms like nausea, vomiting, or yellowing of the skin. It may also increase the risk of pancreatitis, which is inflammation of the pancreas. If you experience severe abdominal pain, seek medical help immediately. Divalproex sodium can cause birth defects, so it's not recommended during pregnancy. Always follow your doctor's advice and report any unusual symptoms.
Is divalproex sodium addictive?
No, divalproex sodium is not considered addictive or habit-forming. It does not cause dependency or withdrawal symptoms when you stop taking it. This medication works by affecting chemicals in the brain to help control seizures and mood disorders. It doesn't affect brain chemistry in ways that lead to addiction. If you have concerns about medication dependence, you can feel confident that divalproex sodium doesn't carry this risk while managing your health condition.
Is divalproex sodium safe for the elderly?
Elderly individuals are more vulnerable to the side effects of divalproex sodium, such as drowsiness, dizziness, and liver problems. These side effects can increase the risk of falls and other complications. Careful monitoring and dose adjustments may be necessary for older adults. Always consult your doctor about the risks and benefits of using this medication if you are elderly.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking divalproex sodium?
It's best to avoid alcohol while taking divalproex sodium. Alcohol can increase the risk of liver damage and enhance side effects like drowsiness and dizziness. These effects can impair your ability to perform tasks that require alertness, such as driving. If you choose to drink occasionally, limit your alcohol intake and monitor for any adverse reactions. Always talk with your doctor about alcohol use while on this medication.
Is it safe to exercise while taking divalproex sodium?
Yes, you can exercise while taking divalproex sodium, but be mindful of how your body feels. This medication can cause drowsiness or dizziness, which might affect your balance and coordination during physical activity. Start with light exercises and gradually increase intensity. Stay hydrated and avoid strenuous activities if you feel unwell. Always consult your doctor if you have concerns about exercising while on this medication.
Is it safe to stop divalproex sodium?
No, it's not safe to stop divalproex sodium suddenly. Doing so can cause serious problems, like increased seizures or mood swings. If you need to stop taking it, your doctor will guide you on how to gradually reduce the dose to avoid withdrawal symptoms. Always talk with your doctor before making any changes to your medication regimen. They will help you make any medication changes safely to protect your health.
What are the most common side effects of divalproex sodium?
Common side effects of divalproex sodium include nausea, drowsiness, dizziness, and weight gain. These side effects vary from person to person. If you experience new symptoms after starting divalproex sodium, they might be temporary or unrelated to the medication. Talk with your doctor before stopping any medication. They can help determine if the side effects are related to divalproex sodium or if another cause needs attention.
Who should avoid taking divalproex sodium?
Divalproex sodium should not be used if you have liver disease or a known allergy to the medication. These are absolute contraindications due to severe risks. Use caution if you have a history of pancreatitis or a genetic disorder called urea cycle disorder. These are relative contraindications, meaning the drug may be used only if benefits outweigh risks. Always consult your doctor about these concerns.
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