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Archive for the ‘fatty acid derivative anticonvulsants’ Category

Stavzor

Posted by admin on November 4th, 2009

Stavzor

Generic Name: valproic acid (val PRO ik A sid)

What is Stavzor?

Stavzor affects chemicals in the body that may be involved in causing seizures.

Stavzor is used to treat various types of seizure disorders. Valproic acid is sometimes used together with other seizure medications.

Stavzor may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Important information about Stavzor

In rare cases, Stavzor has caused life-threatening liver failure, especially in children younger than 2 years old. Children of this age may be at even greater risk for liver problems if they use more than one seizure medication, if they have a metabolic disorder, or if they have a brain disease causing mental impairment (such as Creutzfeldt-Jacob disease, Huntington disease, multiple sclerosis, or a brain injury or infection).

Stavzor has also caused rare cases of life-threatening pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas). Pancreatitis can come on suddenly and symptoms may start even after you have been taking Stavzor for several years.

Seek emergency medical attention if the person taking Stavzor has nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, or loss of appetite, low fever, dark urine, clay-colored stools, or jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes). These symptoms may be early signs of liver damage. Some of these symptoms may also be early signs of pancreatitis.

Stavzor can cause birth defects. Do not use this medication without your doctor’s consent if you are pregnant. It could cause harm to the unborn baby. Use an effective form of birth control, and tell your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment.

You may have thoughts about suicide while taking this medication. Your doctor will need to check you at regular visits. Do not miss any scheduled appointments.

Call your doctor at once if you have any new or worsening symptoms such as: mood or behavior changes, depression, anxiety, or if you feel agitated, hostile, restless, hyperactive (mentally or physically), or have thoughts about suicide or hurting yourself.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Stavzor?

In rare cases, Stavzor has caused life-threatening liver failure, especially in children younger than 2 years old. Children of this age may be at even greater risk for liver problems if they use more than one seizure medication, if they have a metabolic disorder, or if they have a brain disease causing mental impairment (such as Creutzfeldt-Jacob disease, Huntington disease, multiple sclerosis, or a brain injury or infection).

Stavzor has also caused rare cases of life-threatening pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas). Pancreatitis can come on suddenly and symptoms may start even after you have been taking Stavzor for several years. Do not take Stavzor if you have liver disease or a urea cycle disorder.

If you have any of these other conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely use Stavzor:

a bleeding or blood clotting disorder;

a history of head injury, brain disorder, or coma;

a family history of a urea cycle disorder;

a family history of infant deaths with unknown cause; or

HIV or CMV (cytomegalovirus) infection.

You may have thoughts about suicide while taking this medication. Tell your doctor if you have new or worsening depression or suicidal thoughts during the first several months of treatment, or whenever your dose is changed.

Your family or other caregivers should also be alert to changes in your mood or symptoms. Your doctor will need to check you at regular visits. Do not miss any scheduled appointments.

FDA pregnancy category D. This medication can cause harm to an unborn baby. Do not use Stavzor without your doctor’s consent if you are pregnant. Tell your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment. Stavzor can cause birth defects. Use an effective form of birth control while you are using this medication. Stavzor passes into breast milk and could harm a nursing infant. Do not take Stavzor without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take Stavzor?

Take Stavzor exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take the medication in larger amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor.

Take each dose with a full glass of water. Drink plenty of water while you are taking Stavzor. Your dose may need to be changed if you do not get enough fluids each day.

To be sure this medication is not causing harmful effects, your liver function will need to be tested.

Do not miss any scheduled visits to your doctor.

Do not stop taking Stavzor without first talking to your doctor, even if you feel better. You may have increased seizures if you stop taking Stavzor suddenly. You will need to use less and less before you stop the medication completely.

Swallow the capsule whole. Do not crush, chew, or break a capsule because the medicine may irritate your mouth or throat when you swallow it.

Carry an ID card or wear a medical alert bracelet stating that you are taking Stavzor, in case of emergency. Any doctor, dentist, or emergency medical care provider who treats you should know that you are taking Stavzor.

Store Stavzor at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the medicine at the next regularly scheduled time. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine. Overdose symptoms may include sleepiness or drowsiness, shallow breathing, weak pulse, or loss of consciousness.

What should I avoid while taking Stavzor?

Avoid drinking alcohol, which can increase some of the side effects of Stavzor. Stavzor can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert. Avoid exposure to sunlight or artificial UV rays (sunlamps or tanning beds). Stavzor can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight and sunburn may result. Use a sunscreen (minimum SPF 15) and wear protective clothing if you must be out in the sun.

Stavzor side effects

Seek emergency medical attention if the person taking Stavzor has nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, or loss of appetite, low fever, dark urine, clay-colored stools, or jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes). These symptoms may be early signs of liver damage. Some of these symptoms may also be early signs of pancreatitis.

Call your doctor at once if you have any new or worsening symptoms such as: mood or behavior changes, depression, anxiety, or if you feel agitated, hostile, restless, hyperactive (mentally or physically), or have thoughts about suicide or hurting yourself.

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects from using Stavzor:

unexplained weakness with vomiting and confusion or fainting;

easy bruising or bleeding;

fever, skin rash, swollen glands;

fever, chills, skin rash, swollen glands, flu symptoms;

urinating less than usual;

blood in your urine;

weakness, lack of coordination;

a red, blistering, peeling skin rash;

extreme drowsiness; or

double vision or back-and-forth movements of the eyes.

Less serious Stavzor side effects may include:

mild drowsiness;

diarrhea, constipation, upset stomach;

changes in your menstrual periods;

enlarged breasts;

tremor (shaking);

hair loss;

weight changes;

vision changes; or

unusual or unpleasant taste in your mouth.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect Stavzor?

Cold or allergy medicine, narcotic pain medicine, sleeping pills, muscle relaxers, and medicine for depression or anxiety can add to sleepiness caused by Stavzor. Tell your doctor if you regularly use any of these medicines, or any other seizure medication.

Before taking Stavzor, tell your doctor if you are using any of the following drugs:

topiramate (Topamax);

tolbutamide (Orinase);

a blood thinner such as warfarin (Coumadin);

aspirin or acetaminophen (Tylenol);

zidovudine (Retrovir);

clozapine (Clozaril, Fazaclo);

diazepam (Valium);

meropenem (Marum);

rifampin (Rifadin, Rimactane, Rifater); or

ethosuximide (Zarontin).

This list is not complete and there may be other drugs that can interact with Stavzor. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor.

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Depacon

Posted by admin on November 4th, 2009

Depacon

Life-threatening liver failure has occurred in patients taking Depacon . Children younger than 2 years of age are at increased risk of developing life-threatening liver damage, especially those on more than 1 medicine to treat seizures and those with metabolic disorders, severe seizure disorders accompanied by retardation, or organic brain disease. Contact your doctor immediately if you or your child experiences a general feeling of discomfort, sluggishness, weakness, severe drowsiness, swelling of the face, loss of appetite, vomiting, or loss of seizure control. Liver function tests may be performed before and during therapy with Depacon . Be sure to keep all doctor and lab appointments. Depacon can also cause severe birth defects if it is used during pregnancy. Contact your doctor if you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant while taking Depacon . Depacon comes with an additional patient leaflet, “Important Information for Women Who Could Become Pregnant.” Read it carefully. Cases of life-threatening inflammation of the pancreas have occurred with the use of Depacon . Report any stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, or appetite loss to your doctor at once.

Depacon is used for:

Controlling certain types of seizures in the treatment of epilepsy in patients who are unable to take the oral form of Depacon . It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.

Depacon is an anticonvulsant. It works by increasing a certain chemical in the brain.

Do NOT use Depacon if:

Contact your doctor or health care provider right away if any of these apply to you.

Before using Depacon :

Some medical conditions may interact with Depacon . Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any medical conditions, especially if any of the following apply to you:

Some MEDICINES MAY INTERACT with Depacon . Tell your health care provider if you are taking any other medicines, especially any of the following:

This may not be a complete list of all interactions that may occur. Ask your health care provider if Depacon may interact with other medicines that you take. Check with your health care provider before you start, stop, or change the dose of any medicine.

How to use Depacon :

Use Depacon as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions.

Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use Depacon .

Important safety information:

Possible side effects of Depacon :

All medicines may cause side effects, but many people have no, or minor, side effects.

Change in appetite; constipation; diarrhea; dizziness; drowsiness; hair loss; headache; indigestion; nausea; stomach pain; trouble sleeping; vomiting; weight changes.

Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); abdominal cramps; abnormal thinking; change in menstrual period; changes in behavior; chest pain; confusion; dark urine; difficulty speaking; difficulty urinating or other urination problems; extreme tiredness; fast or irregular heartbeat; fever; general body discomfort; hallucinations; hearing loss; involuntary movements of the arms and legs; involuntary movements or chewing movements of face, jaw, mouth, or tongue; joint pain; lack of energy; loss of appetite; loss of coordination; loss of seizure control; memory loss; mental or mood changes; nosebleed; pounding in the chest; severe or persistent nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain; sore throat; suicidal thoughts or actions; swelling of the arms or legs; tremor; unusual bleeding or bruising; unusual weakness; vision changes; yellowing of skin or eyes.

This is not a complete list of all side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, contact your health care provider. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088. You may also report side effects at

If OVERDOSE is suspected:

Contact 1-800-222-1222 (the American Association of Poison Control Centers), your local poison control center (

Store the undiluted solution of Depacon at room temperature, between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C). Because the product does not contain a preservative, any unused mixed portion should be discarded. Depacon is stable for 24 hours when added to compatible intravenous solutions and stored in glass or PVC bags at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C). Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Keep Depacon out of the reach of children and away from pets.

General information:

This information is a summary only. It does not contain all information about Depacon . If you have questions about the medicine you are taking or would like more information, check with your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider.

More Depacon resources

Compare Depacon with other medications for the treatment of:

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Depakene

Posted by admin on November 4th, 2009

Depakene

Severe and sometimes fatal liver problems have occurred with the use of Depakene . The risk is greater in children younger than 2 years old, especially those who have metabolic disorders, seizure disorders with mental retardation, brain disease, or who take multiple seizure medicines.

When liver problems have occurred, it usually has been during the first 6 months of treatment. Contact your doctor right away if symptoms of liver problems occur (eg, dark urine, general feeling of being unwell, loss of appetite, sluggishness, swelling of the face, vomiting, weakness, yellowing of the skin or eyes). Patients with seizure disorders may also experience worsening of seizures. Contact your doctor right away if this occurs. Liver function tests should be performed before you start Depakene and during treatment. Be sure to keep all doctor and lab appointments.

Depakene may cause severe birth defects if you take it while you are pregnant. Women who are able to become pregnant should discuss with their doctor the benefits and risks of using Depakene during pregnancy. Contact your doctor right away if you think you may be pregnant. An extra patient leaflet about this risk is available with Depakene . Read it carefully. Talk with your doctor if you have questions about this information.

Severe and sometimes fatal pancreas problems have occurred with the use of Depakene . These problems have occurred soon after starting Depakene , as well as after several years of treatment. Tell your doctor right away if you develop loss of appetite, nausea, stomach pain, or vomiting.

Depakene is used for:

Treating certain seizure disorders. It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.

Depakene is an anticonvulsant. It works by increasing the amount of a certain chemical in the brain.

Do NOT use Depakene if:

Contact your doctor or health care provider right away if any of these apply to you.

Before using Depakene :

Some medical conditions may interact with Depakene . Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any medical conditions, especially if any of the following apply to you:

Some MEDICINES MAY INTERACT with Depakene . Tell your health care provider if you are taking any other medicines, especially any of the following:

This may not be a complete list of all interactions that may occur. Ask your health care provider if Depakene may interact with other medicines that you take. Check with your health care provider before you start, stop, or change the dose of any medicine.

How to use Depakene :

Use Depakene as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions.

Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use Depakene .

Important safety information:

Possible side effects of Depakene :

All medicines may cause side effects, but many people have no, or minor, side effects.

Constipation; diarrhea; dizziness; drowsiness; headache; increased or decreased appetite; mild hair loss; nausea; sore throat; stomach pain or upset; trouble sleeping; vomiting; weight gain.

Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); abnormal thinking; behavior changes; blurred vision or other vision changes; change in menstrual period; change in the amount of urine produced; chest pain; confusion; dark urine; fast or irregular heartbeat; fever, chills, or persistent sore throat; general feeling of being unwell; hallucinations; hearing loss; joint or muscle pain or weakness; loss of coordination; memory loss; mental or mood changes (eg, depression, nervousness); pale stools; red, swollen, or blistered skin; ringing in the ears; severe or persistent nausea, vomiting, or loss of appetite; severe or persistent stomach pain or cramps; sluggishness; suicidal thoughts or actions; swelling of the arms or legs; swollen lymph nodes; tremor; trouble speaking or walking; uncontrolled muscle movements; unusual bleeding or bruising; unusual tiredness or weakness; yellowing of the skin or eyes.

This is not a complete list of all side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, contact your health care provider. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088. You may also report side effects at

If OVERDOSE is suspected:

Contact 1-800-222-1222 (the American Association of Poison Control Centers), your local poison control center (

Store Depakene between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C). Brief storage at temperatures between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C) is permitted. Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep Depakene out of the reach of children and away from pets.

General information:

This information is a summary only. It does not contain all information about Depakene . If you have questions about the medicine you are taking or would like more information, check with your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider.

More Depakene resources

Compare Depakene with other medications for the treatment of:

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Depakote

Posted by admin on November 4th, 2009

Depakote

Generic Name: divalproex sodium (dye val PRO ex)

What is Depakote?

Depakote affects chemicals in the body that may be involved in causing seizures.

Depakote is used to treat various types of seizure disorders. It is sometimes used together with other seizure medications. It is also used to treat the manic phase of bipolar disorders (manic-depressive illness), and to prevent migraine headaches.

Depakote may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Important information about Depakote

In rare cases, Depakote has caused life-threatening liver failure, especially in children younger than 2 years old. Children may be at even greater risk for liver problems if they use more than one seizure medication, if they have a metabolic disorder, or if they have a brain disease causing mental impairment (such as Creutzfeldt-Jacob disease, Huntington disease, multiple sclerosis, or a brain injury or infection). Seek emergency medical attention if the person taking this medicine has nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, or loss of appetite, low fever, dark urine, clay-colored stools, or jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes). These symptoms may be early signs of liver damage. Some of these symptoms may also be early signs of pancreatitis. Depakote can cause birth defects. Do not use this medication without your doctor’s consent if you are pregnant. Use an effective form of birth control, and tell your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment.

You may have thoughts about suicide while taking Depakote. Your doctor will need to check you at regular visits. Do not miss any scheduled appointments.

Call your doctor at once if you have any new or worsening symptoms such as: mood or behavior changes, depression, anxiety, or if you feel agitated, hostile, restless, hyperactive (mentally or physically), or have thoughts about suicide or hurting yourself.

Before taking Depakote

In rare cases, Depakote has caused life-threatening liver failure, especially in children younger than 2 years old. Children of this age may be at even greater risk for liver problems if they use more than one seizure medication, if they have a metabolic disorder, or if they have a brain disease causing mental impairment (such as Creutzfeldt-Jacob disease, Huntington disease, multiple sclerosis, or a brain injury or infection). Depakote has also caused rare cases of life-threatening pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas). Pancreatitis can come on suddenly and symptoms may start even after you have been taking Depakote for several years. Do not take Depakote if you have liver disease or a urea cycle disorder.

If you have any of these other conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely take Depakote.

a bleeding or blood clotting disorder;

a history of head injury, brain disorder, or coma;

a family history of a urea cycle disorder;

a family history of infant deaths with unknown cause; or

HIV or CMV (cytomegalovirus) infection.

You may have thoughts about suicide while taking Depakote. Tell your doctor if you have new or worsening depression or suicidal thoughts during the first several months of treatment, or whenever your dose is changed.

Your family or other caregivers should also be alert to changes in your mood or symptoms. Your doctor will need to check you at regular visits. Do not miss any scheduled appointments.

FDA pregnancy category D. This medication can cause harm to an unborn baby. Do not use Depakote without your doctor’s consent if you are pregnant. Tell your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment. Depakote can cause birth defects. Use an effective form of birth control while you are using this medication. Depakote passes into breast milk and could harm a nursing infant. Do not take this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take Depakote?

Take Depakote exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take the medication in larger amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor.

Follow the instructions on your prescription label.

Drink plenty of water while you are taking Depakote. Your dose may need to be changed if you do not get enough fluids each day.

To be sure this medication is not causing harmful effects, your liver function will need to be tested. It is important that you not miss any scheduled visits to your doctor.

Do not stop taking Depakote even if you feel better. It is important to take this medication regularly to prevent seizures from recurring. Get your prescription refilled before you run out of medicine completely. Call your doctor promptly if this medicine does not seem to be working as well in preventing your seizures. Do not crush, chew, break, or open a delayed-release or extended-release tablet or capsule. Swallow the pill whole. It is specially made to release medicine slowly in the body. Breaking or opening the pill would cause too much of the drug to be released at one time.

You may open the Depakote sprinkle capsule and sprinkle the medicine into a spoonful of pudding or applesauce to make swallowing easier. Swallow this mixture right away without chewing. Do not save the mixture for later use. Discard the empty capsule.

Carry an ID card or wear a medical alert bracelet stating that you are taking this medication, in case of emergency. Any doctor, dentist, or emergency medical care provider who treats you should know that you are taking Depakote. Store this medication at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the medicine at the next regularly scheduled time. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine.

Overdose symptoms may include sleepiness or drowsiness, shallow breathing, weak pulse, or loss of consciousness.

What should I avoid while taking Depakote?

Avoid drinking alcohol, which can increase some of the side effects of Depakote.

Depakote can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert. Avoid exposure to sunlight or artificial UV rays (sunlamps or tanning beds). Depakote can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight and sunburn may result. Use a sunscreen (minimum SPF 15) and wear protective clothing if you must be out in the sun.

Depakote side effects

Seek emergency medical attention if the person taking Depakote has nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, or loss of appetite, low fever, dark urine, clay-colored stools, or jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes). These symptoms may be early signs of liver damage. Some of these symptoms may also be early signs of pancreatitis.

Call your doctor at once if you have any new or worsening symptoms such as: mood or behavior changes, depression, anxiety, or if you feel agitated, hostile, restless, hyperactive (mentally or physically), or have thoughts about suicide or hurting yourself.

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction to Depakote: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

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

unexplained weakness with vomiting and confusion or fainting;

easy bruising or bleeding, blood in your urine;

fever, sore throat, and headache with a severe blistering, peeling, and red skin rash;

fever, chills, body aches, flu symptoms;

urinating less than usual;

hallucinations (seeing things that aren’t there);

extreme drowsiness, lack of coordination; or

double vision or back-and-forth movements of the eyes.

Less serious Depakote side effects may include:

mild drowsiness or weakness;

diarrhea, constipation, upset stomach;

depression, anxiety, or other emotional changes;

changes in your menstrual periods;

enlarged breasts;

tremor (shaking);

hair loss;

weight changes;

vision changes; or

unusual or unpleasant taste in your mouth.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect Depakote?

Cold or allergy medicine, narcotic pain medicine, sleeping pills, muscle relaxers, and medicine for depression or anxiety can add to sleepiness caused by Depakote. Tell your doctor if you regularly use any of these medicines, or any other seizure medication.

Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you are using any of the following drugs:

topiramate (Topamax);

tolbutamide (Orinase);

a blood thinner such as warfarin (Coumadin);

aspirin or acetaminophen (Tylenol);

zidovudine (Retrovir);

clozapine (Clozaril, FazaClo);

diazepam (Valium);

meropenem (Merrem);

rifampin (Rifadin, Rimactane, Rifater); or

ethosuximide (Zarontin);

This list is not complete and there may be other drugs that can interact with Depakote. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor.

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Depakote ER

Posted by admin on November 4th, 2009

Depakote ER Extended-Release Tablets

Life-threatening liver failure has occurred in patients taking Depakote ER Extended-Release Tablets. Children younger than 2 years of age are at increased risk of developing life-threatening liver damage, especially those on more than 1 medicine to treat seizures and those with metabolic disorders, severe seizure disorders accompanied by retardation, or organic brain disease. Contact your doctor immediately if you or your child experiences a general feeling of discomfort, sluggishness, weakness, severe drowsiness, swelling of the face, loss of appetite, vomiting, or loss of seizure control. Liver function tests may be performed before and during therapy with Depakote ER Extended-Release Tablets. Be sure to keep all doctor and lab appointments. Depakote ER Extended-Release Tablets can also cause severe birth defects if it is used during pregnancy. Contact your doctor if you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant while taking Depakote ER Extended-Release Tablets. Depakote ER Extended-Release Tablets comes with an additional patient leaflet, “Important Information for Women Who Could Become Pregnant.” Read it carefully. Cases of life-threatening inflammation of the pancreas have occurred with the use of Depakote ER Extended-Release Tablets. Report any stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, or appetite loss to your doctor at once.

Depakote ER Extended-Release Tablets are used for:

Controlling certain types of seizures in the treatment of epilepsy. It is also used to treat bipolar disorder and prevent migraine headaches. It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.

Depakote ER Extended-Release Tablets are an anticonvulsant. Exactly how it works is unknown.

Do NOT use Depakote ER Extended-Release Tablets if:

Contact your doctor or health care provider right away if any of these apply to you.

Before using Depakote ER Extended-Release Tablets:

Some medical conditions may interact with Depakote ER Extended-Release Tablets. Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any medical conditions, especially if any of the following apply to you:

Some MEDICINES MAY INTERACT with Depakote ER Extended-Release Tablets. Tell your health care provider if you are taking any other medicines, especially any of the following:

This may not be a complete list of all interactions that may occur. Ask your health care provider if Depakote ER Extended-Release Tablets may interact with other medicines that you take. Check with your health care provider before you start, stop, or change the dose of any medicine.

How to use Depakote ER Extended-Release Tablets:

Use Depakote ER Extended-Release Tablets as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions.

Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use Depakote ER Extended-Release Tablets.

Important safety information:

Possible side effects of Depakote ER Extended-Release Tablets:

All medicines may cause side effects, but many people have no, or minor, side effects.

Change in appetite; constipation; diarrhea; dizziness; drowsiness; hair loss; headache; indigestion; nausea; stomach pain; trouble sleeping; vomiting; weight changes.

Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); abdominal cramps; abnormal thinking; change in menstrual period; changes in behavior; chest pain; confusion; dark urine; difficulty speaking; difficulty urinating or other urination problems; extreme tiredness; fast or irregular heartbeat; fever; general body discomfort; hallucinations; hearing loss; involuntary movements of the arms and legs; involuntary movements or chewing movements of face, jaw, mouth, or tongue; joint pain; lack of energy; loss of appetite; loss of coordination; loss of seizure control; memory loss; mental or mood changes; nosebleed; pounding in the chest; severe or persistent nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain; sore throat; suicidal thoughts or actions; swelling of the arms or legs; tremor; unusual bleeding or bruising; unusual weakness; vision changes; yellowing of skin or eyes.

This is not a complete list of all side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, contact your health care provider. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088. You may also report side effects at

If OVERDOSE is suspected:

Contact 1-800-222-1222 (the American Association of Poison Control Centers), your local poison control center (

Store Depakote ER Extended-Release Tablets at 77 degrees F (25 degrees C). Brief storage at temperatures between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C) is permitted. Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep Depakote ER Extended-Release Tablets out of the reach of children and away from pets.

General information:

This information is a summary only. It does not contain all information about Depakote ER Extended-Release Tablets. If you have questions about the medicine you are taking or would like more information, check with your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider.

More Depakote ER Extended-Release Tablets resources

Compare Depakote ER Extended-Release Tablets with other medications for the treatment of:

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Depakote Sprinkles

Posted by admin on November 4th, 2009

Depakote Sprinkles

Generic Name: divalproex sodium (dye val PRO ex)

What is Depakote Sprinkles (divalproex sodium)?

Divalproex sodium affects chemicals in the body that may be involved in causing seizures.

Divalproex sodium is used to treat various types of seizure disorders. Divalproex sodium is sometimes used together with other seizure medications.

Divalproex sodium may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What is the most important information I should know about Depakote Sprinkles (divalproex sodium)?

In rare cases, divalproex sodium has caused life-threatening liver failure, especially in children younger than 2 years old. Children may be at even greater risk for liver problems if they use more than one seizure medication, if they have a metabolic disorder, or if they have a brain disease causing mental impairment (such as Creutzfeldt-Jacob disease, Huntington disease, multiple sclerosis, or a brain injury or infection). Seek emergency medical attention if the person taking this medicine has nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, or loss of appetite, low fever, dark urine, clay-colored stools, or jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes). These symptoms may be early signs of liver damage. Some of these symptoms may also be early signs of pancreatitis. Divalproex sodium can cause birth defects. Do not use this medication without your doctor’s consent if you are pregnant. Use an effective form of birth control, and tell your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment.

You may have thoughts about suicide while taking this medication. Your doctor will need to check you at regular visits. Do not miss any scheduled appointments.

Call your doctor at once if you have any new or worsening symptoms such as: mood or behavior changes, depression, anxiety, or if you feel agitated, hostile, restless, hyperactive (mentally or physically), or have thoughts about suicide or hurting yourself.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Depakote Sprinkles (divalproex sodium)?

In rare cases, divalproex sodium has caused life-threatening liver failure, especially in children younger than 2 years old. Children of this age may be at even greater risk for liver problems if they use more than one seizure medication, if they have a metabolic disorder, or if they have a brain disease causing mental impairment (such as Creutzfeldt-Jacob disease, Huntington disease, multiple sclerosis, or a brain injury or infection). Divalproex sodium has also caused rare cases of life-threatening pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas). Pancreatitis can come on suddenly and symptoms may start even after you have been taking divalproex sodium for several years. Do not take divalproex sodium if you have liver disease or a urea cycle disorder.

If you have any of these other conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely take divalproex sodium.

a bleeding or blood clotting disorder;

a history of head injury, brain disorder, or coma;

a family history of a urea cycle disorder;

a family history of infant deaths with unknown cause; or

HIV or CMV (cytomegalovirus) infection.

You may have thoughts about suicide while taking this medication. Tell your doctor if you have new or worsening depression or suicidal thoughts during the first several months of treatment, or whenever your dose is changed.

Your family or other caregivers should also be alert to changes in your mood or symptoms. Your doctor will need to check you at regular visits. Do not miss any scheduled appointments.

FDA pregnancy category D. This medication can cause harm to an unborn baby. Do not use divalproex sodium without your doctor’s consent if you are pregnant. Tell your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment. Divalproex sodium can cause birth defects. Use an effective form of birth control while you are using this medication. Divalproex sodium passes into breast milk and could harm a nursing infant. Do not take divalproex sodium without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take Depakote Sprinkles (divalproex sodium)?

Take this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take the medication in larger amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the instructions on your prescription label.

Drink plenty of water while you are taking this medication. Your dose may need to be changed if you do not get enough fluids each day.

To be sure this medication is not causing harmful effects, your liver function will need to be tested. It is important that you not miss any scheduled visits to your doctor.

Do not stop taking the medication even if you feel better. It is important to take divalproex sodium regularly to prevent seizures from recurring. Get your prescription refilled before you run out of medicine completely. Call your doctor promptly if this medicine does not seem to be working as well in preventing your seizures. Do not crush, chew, break, or open a delayed-release or extended-release tablet or capsule. Swallow the pill whole. It is specially made to release medicine slowly in the body. Breaking or opening the pill would cause too much of the drug to be released at one time.

You may open the divalproex sodium sprinkle capsule and sprinkle the medicine into a spoonful of pudding or applesauce to make swallowing easier. Swallow this mixture right away without chewing. Do not save the mixture for later use. Discard the empty capsule.

Carry an ID card or wear a medical alert bracelet stating that you are taking divalproex sodium, in case of emergency. Any doctor, dentist, or emergency medical care provider who treats you should know that you are taking divalproex sodium. Store divalproex sodium at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the medicine at the next regularly scheduled time. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine.

Overdose symptoms may include sleepiness or drowsiness, shallow breathing, weak pulse, or loss of consciousness.

What should I avoid while taking Depakote Sprinkles (divalproex sodium)?

Avoid drinking alcohol, which can increase some of the side effects of divalproex sodium. Divalproex sodium can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert. Avoid exposure to sunlight or artificial UV rays (sunlamps or tanning beds). Divalproex sodium can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight and sunburn may result. Use a sunscreen (minimum SPF 15) and wear protective clothing if you must be out in the sun.

Depakote Sprinkles (divalproex sodium) side effects

Seek emergency medical attention if the person taking this medicine has nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, or loss of appetite, low fever, dark urine, clay-colored stools, or jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes). These symptoms may be early signs of liver damage. Some of these symptoms may also be early signs of pancreatitis.

Call your doctor at once if you have any new or worsening symptoms such as: mood or behavior changes, depression, anxiety, or if you feel agitated, hostile, restless, hyperactive (mentally or physically), or have thoughts about suicide or hurting yourself.

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

unexplained weakness with vomiting and confusion or fainting;

easy bruising or bleeding, blood in your urine;

fever, sore throat, and headache with a severe blistering, peeling, and red skin rash;

fever, chills, body aches, flu symptoms;

urinating less than usual;

hallucinations (seeing things that aren’t there);

extreme drowsiness, lack of coordination; or

double vision or back-and-forth movements of the eyes.

Less serious side effects may include:

mild drowsiness or weakness;

diarrhea, constipation, upset stomach;

depression, anxiety, or other emotional changes;

changes in your menstrual periods;

enlarged breasts;

tremor (shaking);

hair loss;

weight changes;

vision changes; or

unusual or unpleasant taste in your mouth.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect Depakote Sprinkles (divalproex sodium)?

Cold or allergy medicine, narcotic pain medicine, sleeping pills, muscle relaxers, and medicine for depression or anxiety can add to sleepiness caused by divalproex sodium. Tell your doctor if you regularly use any of these medicines, or any other seizure medication.

Before taking divalproex sodium, tell your doctor if you are using any of the following drugs:

topiramate (Topamax);

tolbutamide (Orinase);

a blood thinner such as warfarin (Coumadin);

aspirin or acetaminophen (Tylenol);

zidovudine (Retrovir);

clozapine (Clozaril, FazaClo);

diazepam (Valium);

meropenem (Merrem);

rifampin (Rifadin, Rimactane, Rifater); or

ethosuximide (Zarontin).

This list is not complete and there may be other drugs that can interact with divalproex sodium. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor.

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