Uses of Divalproex

Divalproex is used to treat manic episodes related to bipolar disorder. It is also used in adults and children (10 years and above) to treat complex partial seizures, with or without other seizure types and to prevent migraine headaches.

Therapeutic Category

Divalproex: Anti-epileptic drugs

How Divalproex works

Divalproex helps to control abnormal electrical activity in the brain (by binding to sodium channels), thus reducing the chances of having fits or seizures.

Common side effects of Divalproex

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Dizziness
• Double vision
• Weight gain
• Problems with walking or coordination
• Headache
• Weakness
• Stomach pain
• Diarrhea
• Hair loss
• Sleepiness
• Tremor
• Blurry vision
• Increased appetite
• Loss of appetite

When to consult your doctor

Consult your doctor, if you experience:

• Bleeding problems (Ex. red or purple spots on the skin, bruising, pain and swelling in the joints due to bleeding or bleeding from the mouth or nose)
• High ammonia levels in the blood (signs include feeling tired, vomiting and changes in mental status)
• Low body temperature (hypothermia) (drop in the body temperature to less than 95º F, feeling tired, confusion, coma)
• Allergic (hypersensitivity) reactions (symptoms include fever, skin rash, hives, sores in the mouth, blistering and peeling of the skin, swelling of the lymph nodes, swelling of the eyes, face, lips, tongue, or throat, trouble swallowing or breathing)
• Drowsiness or sleepiness in the elderly
• Nausea or vomiting that does not go away, loss of appetite, pain on the right side of the stomach (abdomen), dark urine, swelling of the face or yellowing of the skin or the whites of the eyes
• Inflammation of the pancreas (signs include stomach pain, pain in the back, nausea or vomiting that does not go away)
• Thoughts of harming or killing yourself

Health Tips for Divalproex

• Follow your doctor's instructions and take Divalproex exactly as prescribed. Do not skip doses or stop taking the medication early, even if you start feeling better, unless instructed by your doctor
• Drinking alcohol while taking divalproex can increase the risk of side effects and may worsen certain conditions
• Do not drive or operate any machines after taking Divalproex if you experience any dizziness, drowsiness, balance or coordination problems
• Divalproex may slightly increase the risk of bone thinning (osteoporosis). Discuss measures to maintain bone health, such as calcium and vitamin D supplementation or weight-bearing exercises, with your doctor
• If you have a history of pancreatitis, kidney problems, or bleeding disorders, inform your doctor before starting divalproex
• Maintain a healthy and balanced diet and attend regular health check ups while taking Divalproex
• Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking, as Divalproex can interact with certain drugs
• Divalproex should be used with caution in pregnant or breast feeding women