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Common brand names: Depakote, Depakene, Depacon Type of
medication: Anticonvulsant Why is this drug prescribed?
Valproic acid is prescribed to treat epilepsy. Valproic acid helps decrease
the frequency and severity of seizures by increasing the levels of the
neurotransmitter GABA, in the brain. By doing so, nerve impulses to certain
areas of the brain decrease. This medication may also be used to prevent
migraine headaches and various other disorders. How is valproic acid given?
Valproic acid should be taken with food or immediately after you have eaten
to help avoid nausea. The amount of the dosage will vary from person to person.
Follow the directions on the prescription label carefully. If there is any part
that you do not understand, ask your doctor or pharmacist. Do not take any more
or less than prescribed and do not take it more often than prescribed. Do not
stop taking valproic acid without first consulting your doctor. Valproic acid
comes as a capsule, extended-release (long-acting) tablet, capsules containing
sprinkle medication and as a liquid. The tablet should be swallowed with water.
Do not chew or crush it; it has a special coating to prevent upsetting your
stomach. If you are taking the sprinkle capsule, it can be swallowed whole or
sprinkled in a teaspoon of soft food such as applesauce. It should be swallowed
immediately without chewing. Do not take the liquid form of valproic acid with
carbonated beverages.
What special precautions should I follow before using
this drug?
Before taking valproic acid, inform your doctor of any prescription or
over-the-counter medications that you are currently taking; this includes any
herbal medications or supplements that you are taking. Also, be sure to tell
your doctor if you have any other medical problems including:
- Blood diseases
- Brain disease
- Kidney or liver disease
What special instructions should I follow while using
this drug?
Valproic acid adds to the effects of other central nervous system
suppressants such as alcohol and those found in many antihistamines, cold
medications, pain medications and muscle relaxants. Check with your doctor
before taking any of these items.
Because this medication can cause drowsiness and dizziness, make sure you are
aware of how this drug reacts before driving or using machines that require you
to be alert.
Before you have any medical tests, be sure to tell your doctor that you are
taking valproic acid. The results of the tests may be affected by the drug.
If you are taking the sprinkle form of valproic acid, you may see a small
amount of the coating in your stool. This is normal.
Talk with your physician about monitoring liver function tests.
Before you have any kind of surgery, dental treatment or emergency treatment,
tell your doctor or dentist if you are using this medication.
Your doctor may want you to carry a medical identification card or bracelet
stating that you are taking this medication and/or have epilepsy. What are the common
side effects?
The most common side effects of valproic acid include:
- Mild abdominal or stomach cramps
- Change in menstrual cycle
- Diarrhea
- A change in weight
- Hair loss
- Nausea
When should I call my doctor?
If you experience any of the following side effects, contact you doctor
immediately:
- Severe abdominal pain, cramps or vomiting
- Behavioral, mood or mental changes
- Double vision
- Loss of appetite
- Continuous back-and-forth and/or rolling eye movements
- Facial swelling
- Spots before the eyes
- Loss of seizure control
What should I do if I forget a dose?
If a dose is missed, simply take it as soon as possible. However, if it is
close to when you are scheduled to take your next dose, simply skip the missed
dose and proceed with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose.
What storage conditions are necessary for this drug?
Valproic acid should be kept in its original container, tightly sealed and
away from children. It should be stored in room temperature, away from excess
heat and moisture (not in the bathroom) and out of direct sunlight. Any
medication that is outdated or unused should be thrown away. Keep the liquid
form of this medication from freezing.
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