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Divalproex - Indications, Dosage, Side Effects and Precautions

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Information about Divalproex

Generic Name : Divalproex
Up-to-date prescription details regarding Divalproex are provided here.

Pronunciation : dye-VAL-proe-ex

Learn the correct pronunciation of the Divalproex, understand it's uses, recommended dosages, its indications, how to take, when to take, when not to take, side effects, special precautions, warnings and its and its storage instructions.
You will also find a list of the medication's International and Indian brand or trade names, as well as its pricing information. For verification of the information presented on this page or for additional clarifications, it's advisable to consult your doctor.


ICD Code : Y46.6 Therapeutic Classification : Anticonvulsants

Trade Names/Brand Names of Divalproex

India :

International :


Depakote

Why is Divalproex Prescribed? (Indications)

This medication is an anticonvulsant, prescribed for bipolar disorder, epilepsy and to prevent migraine headache. It controls the abnormal activity of nerve impulses in the brain and central nervous system.

When should Divalproex not be taken? (Contraindications)

Contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity and urea cycle disorder.

What is the dosage of Divalproex?

Adult: PO- Partial seizures; Primary generalized seizures- Initial-10-15 mg/kg/day in 2-4 divided doses. Max: 60 mg/kg/day.
Acute manic episodes of bipolar disorder- Initial- 25 mg/kg once daily. Max: 60 mg/kg/day.
Migraine prophylaxis- 500 mg once daily for 1 wk, up to 1,000 mg once daily.

How should Divalproex be taken?

It comes as a tablet to take by mouth, with food.

What are the warnings and precautions for Divalproex?

• Caution should be exercised in patients with history of brain, liver, kidney problems, metabolic disease, blood disease, decrease in albumin, HIV infection, elderly, children, during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

• It may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision, do not drive a car or operate machinery and get up slowly from bed while taking this medication.

• Avoid alcohol consumption.

• Patient may develop with an increased risk of pancreatic inflammation and suicidal thoughts, if it so consult with your doctor.

What are the side effects of Divalproex?

Most Common- Nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, dizziness, weakness, abdominal pain, indigestion and rash.
Body as a Whole- Chest pain, chills, fever, neck pain and neck rigidity.
Heart- High/low blood pressure, fast heart rate and dilation of blood vessels.
Gastrointestinal- Loss of appetite, fecal incontinence, flatulence, inflammation of gastrointestinal tract/tongue and mouth infection.
Blood- Bruising.
Metabolic - Swelling in the extremities and weight gain.
Musculoskeletal- Joint pain, leg cramps and twitching.
Central Nervous System- Abnormal dreams, abnormal gait, agitation, in-coordination, muscle rigidity, memory loss, sleeplessness, tingling, involuntary movements, abnormal thinking and fainting.
Respiratory - Difficulty in breathing and inflammation of nose.
Skin - Hair loss, skin scar, dry skin, boils, rash, itching and dandruff.
Eye and ENT- Lazy eye, inflammation of eyes, dry eyes, double vision, deafness, ear/eye pain and ringing in the ear.
Genitourinary- Painful menstrual period/urination, urinary incontinence and vaginal inflammation.

What are the other precautions for Divalproex?

It may lead to poor blood clots.
Monitor blood counts, liver and kidney functions regularly while taking this medication.

What are the storage conditions for Divalproex?

Oral: Store it at controlled room temperature (15-30°C).
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