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compositionComposition:DIVALPROEX-500MG
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Prescription Medicine
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Depakote 500 Tablet is used to treat epilepsy/seizures/fits. Additionally, it is also used to treat manic episodes associated with bipolar disorder and prevent migraines. It contains Divalproex, which decreases the brain's excessive and abnormal nerve activity. In some cases, it may cause side effects such as abdominal pain, back pain, constipation, diarrhoea, dizziness, nausea, increased appetite, and vomiting. Before taking this medicine, you should tell your doctor if you are allergic to any of its components or if you are pregnant/breastfeeding, and about all the medications you are taking and pre-existing medical conditions.

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Written By Santoshini Reddy G , M Pharmacy
Reviewed By Bayyarapu Mahesh Kumar , M Pharmacy
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More about the Product

Composition :

DIVALPROEX-500MG

Manufacturer/Marketer :

Sanofi India Ltd

Consume Type :

Oral

Expires on or after :

Jan-27

Return Policy :

Not Returnable

About Depakote 500 Tablet

Depakote 500 Tablet is a prescription medication primarily used to treat and control various types of seizures. It is also prescribed to manage the manic phases of bipolar disorder and to prevent migraine headaches from occurring. This medication works by stabilising electrical activity in the brain to help manage these conditions.

Divalproex is available in different formulations, including delayed-release and extended-release products. These formulations are not always interchangeable on a milligram-for-milligram basis. Do not switch between different brands or release forms unless specifically instructed by your doctor.

To get the best results, you must take Depakote 500 Tablet consistently every day at the same times as directed by your doctor. You can take this medicine with or without food, but taking it with meals can help prevent an upset stomach. Eating a balanced diet and keeping a regular sleep schedule can also support your treatment and improve how you feel.

While taking this medication, you may experience mild side effects such as sleepiness, dizziness, or temporary hair thinning. However, you must contact your doctor immediately if you notice serious signs like severe abdominal pain, persistent nausea, or yellowing of your skin or eyes.

Before starting Depakote 500 Tablet , tell your doctor if you have a history of liver disease, kidney problems, or mitochondrial disorders. Do not take this if you have active liver damage or a family history of severe liver issues, as this medication can worsen these conditions.

This medicine can interact with alcohol and certain other medications, which may cause extreme drowsiness or increase the risk of liver damage. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, breastfeeding, or are an older adult, talk to your doctor, as special precautions are required for these groups.

Uses of Depakote 500 Tablet

Depakote 500 Tablet is used to treat and control various types of seizures. The detailed uses of Depakote 500 Tablet are as follows:

  • Seizure disorders: Helps control and prevent various types of fits or seizures by calming overactive nerve signals in the brain.
  • Bipolar disorder: Manages manic episodes, helping to stabilise extreme mood swings, hyperactivity, and racing thoughts.
  • Migraine prevention: Reduces the frequency and severity of painful migraine headaches when taken daily as a preventive measure.
     

Key Benefits

Depakote 500 Tablet helps manage certain neurological and mood-related conditions by stabilising abnormal electrical activity in the brain. By supporting seizure control, emotional stability, and migraine prevention, it can improve daily functioning and overall quality of life. This medicine offers several key benefits:

  • Helps Control Seizure Episodes: Depakote 500 Tablet helps reduce the frequency and severity of seizures in people with epilepsy. By stabilising nerve activity in the brain, it lowers the likelihood of unexpected seizure episodes, helping improve safety, confidence, and independence in everyday life.
  • Supports Emotional and Mood Stability: For people with bipolar disorder, Depakote 500 Tablet helps regulate mood fluctuations and reduce the occurrence of mood episodes. This can support more stable relationships, improved concentration, and better participation in daily activities and responsibilities.
  • Helps Prevent Migraine Attacks: Depakote 500 Tablet can help reduce the number of migraine attacks and headache days experienced over time. By lowering the frequency of migraines, it helps minimise disruptions to work, social activities, and overall quality of life.
     

Directions for Use

Always follow your doctor's exact instructions regarding your dose and schedule. Below are standard guidelines for taking this medication:

  • Swallow the tablet or capsule whole with a full glass of water.
  • Do not crush, chew, or break the medicine, as this can affect how it is released into your body and may irritate your mouth or throat.
  • Take this medicine at the exact times prescribed by your doctor to keep a steady amount in your bloodstream.
  • If you experience stomach upset, try taking your dose with food to help protect your stomach.
     

How Depakote 500 Tablet Works

Depakote 500 Tablet works by balancing certain natural chemicals in your brain that transmit nerve signals. When brain cells become overactive, they can trigger seizures, severe mood shifts, or migraine pain. This medicine increases the levels of a calming chemical messenger called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). By boosting GABA levels, Depakote 500 Tablet helps soothe hyperactive nerve pathways. This action stabilises electrical activity in the brain and prevents the sudden bursts that lead to medical symptoms.
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Alcohol

Unsafe

Avoid consumption of alcohol while taking Depakote 500 Tablet as it may cause increased dizziness.

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Pregnancy

Unsafe

Depakote 500 Tablet belongs to pregnancy category D. Avoid taking Depakote 500 Tablet if you are pregnant, as it could lead to serious birth defects. Consult your doctor for further advice.

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Breast Feeding

Caution

Depakote 500 Tablet may pass into breastmilk. Consult your doctor before taking Depakote 500 Tablet if you are breastfeeding.

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Driving

Unsafe

Depakote 500 Tablet causes dizziness and may affect thinking and motor skills. Do not drive or operate machinery.

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Liver

Caution

Depakote 500 Tablet should not be used if you have liver problems or your family has a history of liver problems. Please consult your doctor if you have liver problems or any concerns regarding this.

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Kidney

Caution

Dose adjustment may be needed in patients with kidney impairment. Please consult your doctor if you have kidney impairment or any concerns regarding this.

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Children

Caution

Depakote 500 Tablet can be given to children if prescribed by the doctor. The doctor will adjust the dose depending on the child's body weight. Care should be taken in children below two years, as they are at a higher risk of liver toxicity.

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Heart

Caution

Depakote 500 Tablet can be used in cardiac patients, but requires careful monitoring.

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Geriatrics

Caution

Depakote 500 Tablet should be used under caution in geriatric patients for conditions like bipolar mania and seizures. Please consult your physician.

What if I have taken an overdose of Depakote 500 Tablet

Do not take more than the prescribed dose of Depakote 500 Tablet as it may cause overdose resulting in heart block, excess sleepiness and deep coma. If you suspect you have taken overdose or notice signs of overdose, please consult a doctor immediately.

Diet & Lifestyle Advise

  • Keep a consistent sleep schedule: Lack of sleep can trigger seizures and mood episodes, so aim for 7 to 8 hours of restful sleep every night.
  • Track your triggers: Keep a daily diary to log your meals, stress levels, and activities to identify what triggers your migraines or seizures.
  • Stay well-hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, as dehydration can worsen headaches and affect how your body processes medication.
  • Avoid alcohol entirely: Alcohol can dangerously increase sleepiness and dizziness caused by this medication and elevates the risk of liver damage.
     

Have a query?

How Soon It Starts Working

The time required for Depakote 500 Tablet to start to work: The time required for Depakote 500 Tablet to show its action is not clinically established.

The time for which the effects of Depakote 500 Tablet last: The duration of action for Depakote 500 Tablet is not clinically established.

What if you forget to take Depakote 500 Tablet

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose at the scheduled time. Do not take a double dose.

Storage

•Store Depakote 500 Tablet tablets or capsules at room temperature, ideally between 68°F and 77°F (20°C to 25°C). •Keep the bottle tightly closed in a dry place, away from direct sunlight, high heat, and moisture. Avoid storing it in bathroom cabinets where humid

Drug Warnings

  • Monitor your mental health: Pay close attention to sudden changes in mood, anxiety, or depressive feelings, and report them to your doctor immediately.
  • Check your blood tests regularly: Your doctor may schedule routine monitoring during treatment. This commonly includes liver function tests (LFTs), a complete blood count (CBC) to monitor blood cells and platelets, and serum valproate levels to ensure the medicine remains within an appropriate therapeutic range. Do not skip these appointments.
  • Do not stop taking this medicine suddenly: Stopping abruptly can cause severe, continuous seizures that can be dangerous. Always talk to your doctor before making any changes.
  • Avoid driving or operating machinery: Until you know exactly how this medicine affects you, avoid tasks that require alertness, as it can cause significant drowsiness.
  • Inspect your tablets: Before taking your dose, ensure the tablets are intact and have not been exposed to moisture, which can cause them to become sticky or degrade.
     

Drug-Drug Interactions

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Drug-Drug Interactions

  • Other anti-seizure medicines (e.g., phenytoin or carbamazepine): Taking Depakote 500 Tablet with certain anticonvulsants may alter the blood levels of either medicine, potentially reducing seizure control or increasing the risk of side effects. Your doctor may need to monitor treatment response and adjust doses accordingly.
  • Blood thinners (e.g., aspirin or warfarin): Combining Depakote 500 Tablet with anticoagulants or antiplatelet medicines may increase the risk of bruising, bleeding, or prolonged bleeding times. Closer monitoring may be required during treatment.

Drug-Food Interactions

  • Alcohol: Do not consume alcohol while taking Depakote 500 Tablet . Alcohol can significantly increase drowsiness, impair concentration and coordination, and may increase the risk of liver-related side effects.

Drug-Disease Interactions

  • Liver disease: Do not use Depakote 500 Tablet if you have active liver disease or a history of severe liver impairment. This medication can cause serious liver injury, and patients with pre-existing liver conditions may be at increased risk of severe complications.
  • Mitochondrial disorders (e.g., Alpers-Huttenlocher syndrome): Patients with certain inherited mitochondrial disorders are at a substantially increased risk of acute liver failure when taking Depakote 500 Tablet . Use is contraindicated in these individuals.
  • Urea cycle disorders: Do not take Depakote 500 Tablet if you have a urea cycle disorder. The medicine may increase ammonia levels in the blood, potentially leading to serious neurological complications and hyperammonaemia.
     
DivalproexGlycerol phenylbutyrate
Critical

Drug-Drug Interactions

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DivalproexGlycerol phenylbutyrate
Critical
How does the drug interact with Depakote 500 Tablet:
Coadministration of Glycerol phenylbutyrate and Depakote 500 Tablet can increase ammonia levels in the blood.

How to manage the interaction:
Taking Glycerol phenylbutyrate and Depakote 500 Tablet together is generally avoided as it can lead to an interaction, it can be taken when your doctor advises. If you experience any symptoms like sudden dizziness, headaches, vomiting, and visual disturbances, contact your doctor immediately. Do not discontinue any medications without first consulting your doctor.
How does the drug interact with Depakote 500 Tablet:
Co-administration of Depakote 500 Tablet and Ketamine can increase the risk of side effects.

How to manage the interaction:
Co-administration of Depakote 500 Tablet and Ketamine can lead to an interaction, it can be taken if advised by your doctor. If you have any symptoms such as dizziness, drowsiness, shortness of breath, or impairment in thinking and motor coordination, make sure to contact your doctor right away. Do not stop using any medications without a doctor's advice.
How does the drug interact with Depakote 500 Tablet:
Coadministration of Depakote 500 Tablet and Lamotrigine can increase the risk and severity of side effects.

How to manage the interaction:
Although there is a possible interaction between Depakote 500 Tablet and Lamotrigine, you can take these medicines together if prescribed by your doctor. However, contact your doctor if you experience restlessness, rash, or muscle weakness. Do not stop using any medications without a doctor's advice.
DivalproexVorinostat
Severe
How does the drug interact with Depakote 500 Tablet:
Coadministration of Depakote 500 Tablet and Vorinostat can increase the risk of bleeding.

How to manage the interaction:
Although there is a possible interaction between Depakote 500 Tablet and Vorinostat, you can take these medicines together if prescribed by your doctor. If you experience any symptoms like unusual bleeding or bruising, vomiting, blood in your urine or stools, headache, dizziness, or weakness, consult the doctor immediately. Do not discontinue any medications without consulting your doctor.
How does the drug interact with Depakote 500 Tablet:
Co-administration of buprenorphine with Depakote 500 Tablet may increase the risk of developing side effects.

How to manage the interaction:
Co-administration of Buprenorphine with Depakote 500 Tablet can result in an interaction, it can be taken when a doctor has advised it. However, if you experience shortness of breath, irregular heart rhythms, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea contact your doctor immediately. Do not discontinue any medications without first consulting your doctor.
How does the drug interact with Depakote 500 Tablet:
Coadministration of Ketoconazole and Depakote 500 Tablet may increase the risk of liver damage.

How to manage the interaction:
Although taking Ketoconazole and Depakote 500 Tablet together can result in an interaction, it can be taken if a doctor has prescribed it. However, if you have any of the following symptoms: fever, chills, joint pain, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, dark urine, and yellowing of the skin or eyes, consult a doctor immediately. Do not stop using any medications without a doctor's advice.
How does the drug interact with Depakote 500 Tablet:
Coadministration of Ertapenem with Depakote 500 Tablet may reduce the blood levels of Depakote 500 Tablet and increase the risk of developing seizures.

How to manage the interaction:
Although there is a possible interaction, ertapenem can be taken with Depakote 500 Tablet if prescribed by the doctor. Consult the doctor if you experience loss of seizure control or changes in behaviour. Do not stop using any medications without talking to your doctor.
How does the drug interact with Depakote 500 Tablet:
Co-administration of Depakote 500 Tablet and Meropenem can reduce the blood levels of Depakote 500 Tablet sodium.

How to manage the interaction:
Co-administration of Depakote 500 Tablet with Meropenem can possibly result in an interaction, but it can be taken if your doctor has advised it. Do not discontinue any medications without a doctor's advice.
DivalproexEsketamine
Severe
How does the drug interact with Depakote 500 Tablet:
Coadministration of Esketamine and Depakote 500 Tablet can increase the side effects of esketamine.

How to manage the interaction:
Although taking Depakote 500 Tablet and Esketamine together can cause an interaction, it can be taken if your doctor has suggested it. However, if you experience any symptoms like drowsiness and impaired motor coordination, consult the doctor immediately. Do not stop using any medications without talking to your doctor.
How does the drug interact with Depakote 500 Tablet:
Co-administration of Depakote 500 Tablet and Doripenem can reduce the blood levels of Depakote 500 Tablet sodium and increase the risk of developing seizures.

How to manage the interaction:
Co-administration of Depakote 500 Tablet with Doripenem can possibly result in an interaction, it can be taken when your doctor has advised it. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.

Drug-Food Interactions

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No Drug - Food interactions found in our database. Some may be unknown. Consult your doctor for what to avoid during medication.

Drug-Food Interactions

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All Substitutes & Brand Comparisons

Habit Forming

No

Therapeutic Class

[ANTICONVULSANT]

FAQs

Depakote 500 Tablet is used to treat epilepsy/seizures/fits. Additionally, it is also used to treat manic episodes associated with bipolar disorder and prevent migraines.
Depakote 500 Tablet decreases the excessive and abnormal nerve activity in the brain. Thereby helps in controlling seizures.
Depakote 500 Tablet helps to treat manic episodes associated with bipolar disorder by increasing the amount of a chemical substance called GABA, which helps in blocking the nerve transmission across the brain and provides a calming effect.
Depakote 500 Tablet limits the transmission of nerve pain, thereby preventing migraine headaches. Migraine is a neurological condition characterised by intense headaches.
Depakote 500 Tablet may interact with aspirin and cause abnormal side-effects. So, it is recommended to take any medication along with Depakote 500 Tablet only after consulting a doctor.
Depakote 500 Tablet may improve the symptoms of depression. However, do not use it without consulting a doctor as it may also cause mood disturbances and suicidal thoughts in some patients.
No, you should not stop taking Depakote 500 Tablet without consulting your doctor, even if you feel well or your seizures have stopped. Abrupt discontinuation can worsen your condition and may trigger severe or continuous seizures. If treatment needs to be stopped, your doctor will gradually reduce the dose to minimize risks.
Before taking Depakote 500 Tablet , certain laboratory tests are recommended. These include a Complete Blood Count (CBC), liver function tests (LFTs), kidney function tests, blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine levels, and a pregnancy test for women of childbearing age. Additionally, blood glucose levels should be checked for patients with diabetes or at risk of developing diabetes. Platelet count and coagulation tests (PT/INR/APTT) are also recommended. Please note that this list may not be exhaustive, and additional tests or monitoring may be necessary based on individual circumstances.
Depakote 500 Tablet may cause thrombocytopenia (low levels of platelets). This might increase the risk of bleeding and bruising. Be cautious while using sharp objects. Consult your doctor if you notice unexplained bleeding or bruising. Regular monitoring of blood count is advised while taking Depakote 500 Tablet .
Topiramate (anticonvulsant) should not be taken along with Depakote 500 Tablet as it may cause hyperammonemia (excess ammonia in the blood), hypothermia (low body temperature) and liver problems.
Depakote 500 Tablet is also used to treat mood disorders. It treats mood disorders by increasing the amount of a chemical substance called GABA, which helps block nerve transmission across the brain and provides a calming effect.
Yes, Depakote 500 Tablet can cause sleepiness, tiredness, dizziness, or drowsiness, especially when starting treatment or after a dose increase. Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how the medicine affects you. If excessive drowsiness persists or becomes troublesome, consult your doctor.
Yes, Depakote 500 Tablet may cause hair loss or temporary hair thinning in some people. This side effect is often reversible with continued treatment or after dose adjustment. If you notice significant hair loss or if it concerns you, consult your doctor for advice.
Yes, Depakote 500 Tablet can potentially damage your liver. While this is a rare side effect, being aware of the risk is essential. Signs of liver damage may include yellowing of the skin or eyes or jaundice, dark urine, abdominal pain, light-coloured stools, nausea and vomiting. If you experience any of these symptoms while taking Depakote 500 Tablet , seeking medical attention is crucial.
Avoid consumption of alcohol while taking Depakote 500 Tablet as it may cause increased dizziness.
If you experience abdominal pain, nausea, and anorexia while taking Depakote 500 Tablet , it's essential to contact your doctor immediately. These symptoms can be signs of a severe side effect, such as liver damage.
An overdose of Depakote 500 Tablet can be a severe medical emergency. If you or someone you know has taken an overdose of Depakote 500 Tablet , it's crucial to seek immediate medical attention.
Depakote 500 Tablet can be taken with or without food. However, it is recommended to take it with food to reduce stomach upset and improve absorption. Food can help buffer any potential stomach irritation and enhance the body's absorption of the medication.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. In this case, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the regular time. Never take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
No, taking Depakote 500 Tablet during pregnancy carries a high risk of birth defects and developmental delays in the baby. You must use effective birth control while taking this medicine. If you are planning a pregnancy or become pregnant, talk to your doctor immediately.
Yes, weight gain is a known side effect for some people taking this medicine. Managing your diet and staying physically active can help control this, but if weight gain becomes a concern, talk to your doctor.
It may take several weeks of consistent use before you notice the full benefits of Depakote 500 Tablet in preventing seizures or stabilising your mood. Do not stop taking it if you do not see immediate results, and talk to your doctor.
No, you should not crush, chew, or break these tablets because they are specially designed to release the medicine slowly into your body. Crushing them can cause too much medicine to be released at once. If you struggle to swallow pills, talk to your doctor.
Generally, moderate caffeine intake is fine, but large amounts can trigger migraines or interfere with your sleep, which might affect your condition. If you notice a connection between caffeine and your symptoms, talk to your doctor.

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Country of origin

India

Manufacturer/Marketer address

CT Survey No.117-B, L&T Business Park, Saki Vihar Road, Powai, Mumbai 400072.
Other Info - DEP0002
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