WARNING

Depakote ER (extended-release) is a medication primarily used to treat epilepsy, bipolar disorder, and migraine headaches. Like any medication, it carries risks and potential side effects. Some common risks associated with Depakote ER include:

• Liver Damage: Depakote ER can cause liver damage, especially in the first six months of treatment. Regular monitoring of liver function is essential.
• Pancreatitis: There’s a risk of developing pancreatitis while taking Depakote ER, which can be severe and life-threatening. Symptoms include severe stomach pain, nausea, and vomiting.
• Birth Defects: Pregnant women who take Depakote ER have a higher risk of giving birth to babies with neural tube defects or other congenital malformations.
• Weight Gain: Depakote ER can lead to weight gain, which may increase the risk of developing metabolic disorders such as diabetes.
• Drowsiness and Dizziness: It can cause drowsiness and dizziness, affecting a person’s ability to concentrate or operate machinery safely.
• Suicidal Thoughts: There’s a small risk of increased suicidal thoughts or behaviors, especially in young adults and teenagers.
• Decreased Platelets: Depakote ER can decrease the number of platelets in the blood, increasing the risk of bleeding or bruising.
• Bone Health: Long-term use of Depakote ER may affect bone health and increase the risk of osteoporosis.

It’s important for individuals taking Depakote ER to be closely monitored by their healthcare provider for any signs of these side effects and to report any concerns promptly. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice and guidance regarding medication risks and benefits.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Depakote ER (extended-release) is prescribed for several medical conditions, primarily:

• Epilepsy: It’s commonly used as a mood stabilizer to treat various types of seizures associated with epilepsy.
• Bipolar Disorder: Depakote ER is also prescribed to stabilize mood fluctuations in individuals with bipolar disorder, particularly in managing manic episodes.
• Migraine Prophylaxis: It’s sometimes used to prevent migraine headaches in certain cases.

How should this medicine be used?

Here are some general guidelines for using Depakote ER:

• Dosage: The dosage of Depakote ER varies depending on the condition being treated and individual response. It’s usually started at a low dose and gradually increased to achieve the desired therapeutic effect.
• Administration: Depakote ER tablets are usually taken orally, once daily, with food to help reduce stomach upset. Swallow the tablets whole; do not crush, chew, or break them.
• Monitoring: Regular monitoring of blood levels of Depakote ER may be necessary to ensure that the medication is within the therapeutic range and to minimize the risk of side effects.
• Consistency: It’s important to take Depakote ER at the same time each day to maintain a consistent level of the medication in the bloodstream.
• Duration: Depakote ER is typically taken on a long-term basis to manage chronic conditions like epilepsy or bipolar disorder. Even if symptoms improve, it’s essential to continue taking the medication as prescribed unless directed otherwise by a healthcare provider.
• Caution: Avoid suddenly stopping Depakote ER without consulting a healthcare professional, as this can lead to withdrawal symptoms or a recurrence of symptoms.

Always communicate with a healthcare provider regarding any concerns or changes in symptoms while taking Depakote ER, and do not adjust the dosage or stop taking the medication without medical advice.

Other uses for this medicine

In addition to its primary uses for epilepsy, bipolar disorder, and migraine prophylaxis, Depakote ER (extended-release) may be prescribed off-label for other conditions, including:

• Neuropathic Pain: Some healthcare providers may prescribe Depakote ER for the management of certain types of neuropathic pain, although evidence supporting its efficacy in this area is limited.
• Agitation: In some cases, Depakote ER may be used to help manage agitation or aggression associated with conditions such as dementia, autism spectrum disorder, or other psychiatric disorders.
• Alcohol Withdrawal: Depakote ER may be used as part of a treatment regimen for individuals undergoing alcohol withdrawal, although its use for this purpose is less common than other medications such as benzodiazepines.

What special precautions should I follow?

As for special precautions to follow when taking Depakote ER, here are some key points to consider:

• Liver Function Monitoring: Regular monitoring of liver function tests is crucial, especially during the first six months of treatment. Depakote ER can cause liver damage, so healthcare providers may order blood tests to assess liver function periodically.
• Pregnancy and Birth Control: Depakote ER has been associated with an increased risk of birth defects, particularly neural tube defects, when taken during pregnancy. Women of childbearing age should use effective contraception while taking Depakote ER, and healthcare providers may recommend switching to a different medication if pregnancy is planned or confirmed.
• Pancreatitis Risk: There is a risk of pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) associated with Depakote ER use. Individuals taking Depakote ER should be aware of symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting, and should promptly report any such symptoms to their healthcare provider.
• Blood Monitoring: Depakote ER can affect blood cell counts, including platelet levels. Regular blood tests may be necessary to monitor these parameters and detect any abnormalities.
• Interactions with Other Medications: Depakote ER may interact with other medications, including certain antidepressants, antipsychotics, and anticoagulants. It’s important to inform healthcare providers about all medications, supplements, and herbal remedies being taken to avoid potential interactions.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: Depakote ER may cause drowsiness, dizziness, or blurred vision in some individuals. It’s important to avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how Depakote ER affects you.
• Medical Alert Bracelet: In some cases, healthcare providers may recommend wearing a medical alert bracelet indicating the use of Depakote ER, especially for individuals with epilepsy or other conditions where rapid medical intervention may be necessary.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and communicate any concerns or changes in symptoms while taking Depakote ER.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Special dietary instructions for Depakote ER are generally not required. However, taking Depakote ER with food may help reduce stomach upset. If you have specific dietary concerns or restrictions, discuss them with your healthcare provider.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget a dose of Depakote ER, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is close to the time of your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you have questions or concerns about missed doses, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Depakote ER (extended-release) can cause various side effects, ranging from mild to severe. It’s essential to be aware of these potential side effects and to report any concerns to your healthcare provider. Some common side effects of Depakote ER include:

• Nausea and Vomiting: These gastrointestinal symptoms are among the most common side effects of Depakote ER, especially when starting the medication or increasing the dosage.
• Drowsiness and Dizziness: Depakote ER can cause drowsiness, dizziness, or blurred vision, which may impair your ability to concentrate or operate machinery safely.
• Weight Gain: Some individuals may experience weight gain while taking Depakote ER, which could be a concern for some patients, particularly those with metabolic issues.
• Tremor: Depakote ER may cause tremors or shaky movements, especially at higher doses.
• Hair Loss: Some people may experience hair loss or thinning while taking Depakote ER. This side effect is usually reversible upon discontinuation of the medication.
• Liver Toxicity: There is a risk of liver damage associated with Depakote ER, particularly in the first six months of treatment. Symptoms of liver toxicity include jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), abdominal pain, and dark urine.
• Pancreatitis: In rare cases, Depakote ER can cause inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis), which can be severe and life-threatening. Symptoms include severe abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting.
• Decreased Platelets: Depakote ER may reduce the number of platelets in the blood, increasing the risk of bleeding or bruising.
• Birth Defects: Pregnant women who take Depakote ER have a higher risk of giving birth to babies with neural tube defects or other congenital malformations.
• Suicidal Thoughts: There is a small risk of increased suicidal thoughts or behaviors, especially in young adults and teenagers, when taking Depakote ER.

It’s important to note that not everyone will experience these side effects, and some side effects may diminish or disappear over time as your body adjusts to the medication. However, if you experience any concerning side effects while taking Depakote ER, contact your healthcare provider promptly. They can provide guidance on managing side effects or adjusting your treatment regimen if necessary.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal:

• Storage: Store Depakote ER at room temperature away from light and moisture. Avoid storing it in the bathroom or kitchen, where it might be exposed to moisture. Keep it out of reach of children and pets.
• Disposal: Dispose of unused or expired Depakote ER properly. Do not flush it down the toilet or pour it down the drain unless instructed to do so. Instead, consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal facility for guidance on proper disposal methods.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Seek Immediate Medical Attention: In case of an overdose or emergency, such as severe drowsiness, difficulty breathing, loss of consciousness, or seizures, seek immediate medical attention by calling emergency services or visiting the nearest emergency room.
• Poison Control: You can also contact your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222 (in the United States) for guidance on what to do in case of an overdose.

What other information should I know?

• Regular Monitoring: Your healthcare provider may recommend regular monitoring of blood levels of Depakote ER and various blood tests to monitor liver function, especially during the initial stages of treatment.
• Medication Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal remedies you are taking, as Depakote ER may interact with other drugs.
• Alcohol: Avoid excessive alcohol consumption while taking Depakote ER, as it may increase the risk of side effects and liver damage.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the risks and benefits of taking Depakote ER with your healthcare provider, as it may pose risks to the fetus or infant.
• Medical Alert: Consider wearing a medical alert bracelet or carrying a medical alert card indicating that you are taking Depakote ER, especially if you have a history of seizures or other medical conditions where rapid medical intervention may be necessary.
• Follow-up: Attend all follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your progress and discuss any concerns or changes in symptoms.

By following these guidelines and staying informed about your medication, you can use Depakote ER safely and effectively under the guidance of your healthcare provider.