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Written By Santoshini Reddy G , M Pharmacy
Reviewed By Bayyarapu Mahesh Kumar , M Pharmacy
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. Thereby helping in controlling seizures. It helps block nerve transmission across the brain and provides a calming effect. 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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Composition :

DIVALPROEX-500MG

Manufacturer/Marketer :

Sanofi India Ltd

Consume Type :

ORAL

Return Policy :

Not Returnable

Expires on or after :

About Depakote 500 Tablet

Depakote 500 Tablet is used to treat epilepsy/seizures/fits. Additionally, Depakote 500 Tablet is also used to treat manic episodes associated with bipolar disorder and prevent migraines. Epilepsy is a sudden rush of electricity in the brain. In epilepsy, the brain's electrical rhythms become imbalanced, resulting in recurrent seizures.

Depakote 500 Tablet contains 'Divalproex', which decreases the brain's excessive and abnormal nerve activity. Thereby helping in controlling seizures. Depakote 500 Tablet increases the amount of a chemical substance called GABA; this helps block nerve transmission across the brain and provides a calming effect. Thereby helping treat bipolar disorder. 

Take Depakote 500 Tablet with or without food. Depending on your medical condition, you are advised to take Depakote 500 Tablet for as long as your doctor has prescribed it for you. In some cases, you may experience certain common side effects, such as abdominal pain, back pain, constipation, diarrhoea, dizziness, nausea, increased appetite, and vomiting. Most of these side effects do not require medical attention and will resolve gradually over time. However, you are advised to talk to your doctor if you experience these side effects persistently.

Please do not stop taking Depakote 500 Tablet without consulting your doctor to avoid worsening seizures. Do not take Depakote 500 Tablet if you are pregnant, as it could cause serious birth defects. If you are of childbearing age, use effective contraception while taking Depakote 500 Tablet . Consult your doctor before taking Depakote 500 Tablet if you are breastfeeding. Avoid driving or operating machinery as Depakote 500 Tablet causes dizziness and may affect thinking and motor skills. Avoid consuming alcohol along with Depakote 500 Tablet as it could lead to increased dizziness. Care should be taken while giving Depakote 500 Tablet to children below two years as there is a higher risk of liver intoxication during the first 6months of treatment. Keep your doctor informed about your health condition and medicines to rule out any side effects.

Uses of Depakote 500 Tablet

Treatment of Epilepsy, bipolar disorder, migraine.

Directions for Use

Tablet/Capsule: Swallow it as a whole with a glass of water; do not chew or crush it.Syrup/Suspension/Drops: Take the prescribed dose by mouth using the measuring cup/dosing syringe/dropper provided by the pack; shake the pack well before each use.Sprinkle capsule: Swallow it as a whole with water or sprinkle the capsule contents on food and consume.

Medicinal Benefits

Depakote 500 Tablet belongs to a group of medicines called anticonvulsants or anti-epileptics. Depakote 500 Tablet is used to treat epilepsy/seizures/fits. Also, Depakote 500 Tablet is used to treat mood disorders and prevent migraine headaches. Depakote 500 Tablet decreases the excessive and abnormal nerve activity in the brain. Thereby helping in controlling seizures. Depakote 500 Tablet treats mood disorders by increasing the amount of a chemical substance called GABA; this helps block nerve transmission across the brain and provides a calming effect. Depakote 500 Tablet prevents migraine headaches by limiting the transmission of nerve pain. Depakote 500 Tablet is used alone or in combination to treat simple, complex partial, and complex absence seizures. Depakote 500 Tablet is used in combination to treat multiple seizures, such as absence seizures.

How Depakote 500 Tablet Works

Depakote 500 Tablet contains 'Divalproex', which decreases the brain's excessive and abnormal nerve activity. Thereby helping in controlling seizures. Depakote 500 Tablet increases the amount of a chemical substance called GABA; this helps block nerve transmission across the brain and provides a calming effect. Thereby helping treat bipolar disorder.

Storage

Store in a cool and dry place away from sunlight
Side effects of Depakote 500 Tablet
Overcome Medication-Induced Nausea: A 9-Step Plan
  • Inform your doctor about the nausea and discuss possible alternatives to the medication or adjustments to the dosage.
  • Divide your daily food intake into smaller, more frequent meals to reduce nausea.
  • Opt for bland, easily digestible foods like crackers, toast, plain rice, bananas, and applesauce.
  • Avoid certain foods that can trigger nausea, such as fatty, greasy, spicy, and smelly foods.
  • Drink plenty of fluids, such as water, clear broth, or electrolyte-rich beverages like coconut water or sports drinks.
  • Use ginger (tea, ale, or candies) to help relieve nausea.
  • Get adequate rest and also avoid strenuous activities that can worsen nausea.
  • Talk to your doctor about taking anti-nausea medication if your nausea is severe.
  • Record when your nausea occurs, what triggers it, and what provides relief to help you identify patterns and manage your symptoms more effectively.
To prevent, manage, and treat Constipation caused by medication usage, follow these steps:
  • Preventing Vomiting (Before it Happens)
  • Take medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. This can help minimize side effects, including vomiting.
  • Having a small meal before taking your medication can help reduce nausea and vomiting.
  • Talk to your doctor about taking anti-nausea medication along with your prescribed medication.
  • Managing Vomiting (If it Happens)
  • Try taking ginger in the form of tea, ale, or candy to help alleviate nausea and vomiting.
  • What to Do if Vomiting Persists
  • Consult your doctor if vomiting continues or worsens, consult the doctor for guidance on adjusting your medication or additional treatment.
  • Brush and floss regularly twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and once a day with floss.
  • Use a soft or extra-soft toothbrush.
  • Avoid tobacco products, as smoking can worsen gum problems.
  • Use an antimicrobial mouthwash to reduce bacteria and prevent bleeding.
  • Drink green tea rich in catechin to reduce inflammation from oral bacteria.
  • Eat a balanced diet high in nutrients and low in sugar.
  • Reduce stress to minimize inflammation and gum bleeding.
  • Consult your dentist if gums bleed consistently.
  • Stretching and walking are examples of mild exercises that can improve mobility and reduce muscle stiffness.
  • Improving posture, mobility, and muscle coordination through physical therapy can help manage slowness or stiffness.
  • Maintain healthy weight and advance general health depend on eating a balanced diet.
  • Reducing symptoms like tremors or muscle spasms requires adequate sleep and rest.
  • Avoid driving or operating machinery or activities that require high focus until you know how the medication affects you.
  • Maintain a fixed sleeping schedule, create a relaxing bedtime routine and ensure your sleeping space is comfortable to maximize your sleep quality.
  • Limit alcohol and caffeine as these may worsen drowsiness and disturb sleep patterns.
  • Drink plenty of water as it helps with alertness and keeps you hydrated and for overall well-being.
  • Moderate physical activity can improve energy levels, but avoid intense workouts right before bedtime.
Dealing with Medication-Induced Headache:
  • Hydrate your body: Drink enough water to prevent dehydration and headaches.
  • Calm Your Mind: Deep breathing and meditation can help you relax and relieve stress.
  • Rest and Recharge: Sleep for 7-8 hours to reduce headache triggers.
  • Take rest: lie down in a quiet, dark environment.
  • Cold or warm compresses can help reduce tension.
  • Stay Upright: Maintain good posture to keep symptoms from getting worse.
  • To treat headaches naturally, try acupuncture or massage therapy.
  • Over-the-counter pain relievers include acetaminophen and ibuprofen.
  • Prescription Assistance: Speak with your doctor about more substantial drug alternatives.
  • Severe Headaches: Seek emergency medical assistance for sudden, severe headaches.
  • Frequent Headaches: If you get reoccurring headaches, consult your doctor.
  • Headaches with Symptoms: Seek medical attention if your headaches include fever, disorientation, or weakness.

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.

Drug Warnings

Do not take Depakote 500 Tablet if you are allergic to any of its contents, have/ had liver problems or urea cycle disorders. Inform your doctor before taking Depakote 500 Tablet if you have pancreatitis, blood problems or multi-organ hypersensitivity. Consult your doctor immediately if you experience suicidal tendencies while taking Depakote 500 Tablet . Depakote 500 Tablet may cause thrombocytopenia (low blood platelets), hyperammonemia (high levels of ammonia in the blood), hypothermia (low body temperature) and liver problems. Please do not stop taking Depakote 500 Tablet without consulting your doctor to avoid worsening of seizures. Do not take Depakote 500 Tablet if you are pregnant, as it could cause serious birth defects. If you are of childbearing age, use effective contraception while taking Depakote 500 Tablet . Consult your doctor before taking Depakote 500 Tablet if you are breastfeeding. Avoid driving or operating machinery as Depakote 500 Tablet causes dizziness and may affect thinking and motor skills. Avoid consuming alcohol along with Depakote 500 Tablet as it could lead to increased dizziness. Care should be taken while giving Depakote 500 Tablet to children below 2 years as there is a higher risk of liver intoxication during the first six months of treatment.

Drug-Drug Interactions

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Sodium ValproateSodium phenylbutyrate
Critical
Sodium ValproateErtapenem
Severe

Drug-Drug Interactions

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Sodium ValproateSodium phenylbutyrate
Critical
How does the drug interact with Depakote 500 Tablet:
Combining Sodium phenylbutyrate and Depakote 500 Tablet can increase ammonia levels in the blood.

How to manage the interaction:
Taking Sodium phenylbutyrate with Depakote 500 Tablet is not recommended, but it can be taken if prescribed by a doctor. If you experience any symptoms like sudden dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, headache, shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, chest pain or tightness, rapid heartbeat, or memory loss, contact your doctor immediately. Do not discontinue any medications without consulting a doctor.
Sodium ValproateErtapenem
Severe
How does the drug interact with Depakote 500 Tablet:
The combined use of Ertapenem and Depakote 500 Tablet can reduce the blood levels of valproic acid.

How to manage the interaction:
Co-administration of Ertapenem and Depakote 500 Tablet can lead to an interaction, it can be taken if advised by your doctor. However, if you experience any symptoms like loss of seizure control or changes in behavior, consult your doctor immediately. Do not discontinue any medications without consulting the doctor.
Sodium ValproateKetamine
Severe
How does the drug interact with Depakote 500 Tablet:
Co-administration of Ketamine and Depakote 500 Tablet can increase side effects and cause respiratory depression.

How to manage the interaction:
Co-administration of Ketamine and Depakote 500 Tablet can lead to an interaction, but it can be taken if your doctor advises. However, consult your doctor immediately if you experience any symptoms like dizziness, drowsiness, confusion, difficulty concentrating, excessive sedation, impaired thinking, judgment, and motor coordination. Avoid driving or operating hazardous machinery until you know how these medications affect you. Do not discontinue any medications without consulting the doctor.
Sodium ValproateLithium
Severe
How does the drug interact with Depakote 500 Tablet:
Co-administration of Lithium with Depakote 500 Tablet can increase the risk irregular heart rhythm.

How to manage the interaction:
Co-administration of Lithium and Depakote 500 Tablet can lead to an interaction, but it can be taken if advised by your doctor. However, consult your doctor immediately if you experience any symptoms like dizziness, drowsiness, confusion, lightheadedness, fainting, shortness of breath, chest pain or tightness, rapid heartbeat, and difficulty concentrating. Do not discontinue any medications without consulting a doctor.
Sodium ValproateBuprenorphine
Severe
How does the drug interact with Depakote 500 Tablet:
Using buprenorphine together with Depakote 500 Tablet may increase the risk of severe side effects, including respiratory problems and loss of consciousness.

How to manage the interaction:
Although the administration of buprenorphine alongside Depakote 500 Tablet can result in an interaction, it can be taken if a doctor has advised it. However, if you experience sudden dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, shortness of breath, chest pain or tightness, rapid heartbeat, or memory loss, contact a doctor immediately. Do not discontinue any medications without consulting a doctor.
Sodium ValproateVorinostat
Severe
How does the drug interact with Depakote 500 Tablet:
Co-administration of Vorinostat with Depakote 500 Tablet can increase the risk of unusual bleeding.

How to manage the interaction:
Co-administration of Vorinostat and Depakote 500 Tablet can lead to an interaction, it can be taken if advised by your doctor. However, if you experience any symptoms like unusual bleeding or bruising, vomiting, blood in your urine or stools, headache, dizziness, or weakness, consult your doctor immediately. Do not discontinue any medications without consulting your doctor.
Sodium ValproateMeropenem
Severe
How does the drug interact with Depakote 500 Tablet:
Co-administration of Meropenam and Depakote 500 Tablet together can reduce the effect of Depakote 500 Tablet.

How to manage the interaction:
Co-administration of Meropenam and Depakote 500 Tablet can lead to an interaction, but it can be taken if your doctor advises. However, if you experience any unusual symptoms, consult a doctor immediately. Do not discontinue any medications without consulting a doctor.
Sodium ValproateTeriflunomide
Severe
How does the drug interact with Depakote 500 Tablet:
Co-administration of Teriflunomide and Depakote 500 Tablet can increase the risk of causing liver problems.

How to manage the interaction:
Co-administration of Teriflunomide and Depakote 500 Tablet can lead to an interaction, it can be taken if advised by your doctor. However, if you experience any symptoms like fever, chills, joint pain or swelling, unusual bleeding or bruising, skin rash, itching, loss of appetite, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dark-colored urine, light-colored stools, and yellowing of the skin or eyes. Avoid alcohol while taking these medications, and consult your doctor immediately. Do not discontinue any medications without consulting your doctor.
Sodium ValproateDoripenem
Severe
How does the drug interact with Depakote 500 Tablet:
Co-administration of Depakote 500 Tablet with doripenem can reduce the blood levels of valproic acid.

How to manage the interaction:
Co-administration of Doripenam and Depakote 500 Tablet can lead to an interaction, it can be taken if advised by your doctor. However, if you experience sudden dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, shortness of breath, chest pain or tightness, rapid heartbeat, involuntary muscle movements, or memory loss, contact your doctor immediately. Do not discontinue any medications without consulting a doctor.
Sodium ValproateLeflunomide
Severe
How does the drug interact with Depakote 500 Tablet:
Co-administration of Leflunomide and Depakote 500 Tablet can increase the risk of causing liver problems.

How to manage the interaction:
Co-administration of Leflunomide and Depakote 500 Tablet can lead to an interaction, they can be taken together if prescribed by a doctor. However, if you experience fever, chills, joint pain or swelling, unusual bleeding or bruising, skin rash, itching, less desire to eat, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, or yellowing of the skin or eyes, contact a doctor immediately. Do not discontinue any medications without consulting a 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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Diet & Lifestyle Advise

  • A ketogenic diet (low in carbohydrates and high in fats) is recommended for children with epilepsy. This diet helps in utilising fat instead of glucose for the generation of energy.

  • Atkins diet (high fay and controlled carbohydrates) is recommended for adolescents and adults.

  • Exercising regularly helps in maintaining weight and improving overall health. 

  • Rest well, get plenty of sleep.

  • Avoid smoking and alcohol consumption.

  • Meditation and yoga can help lower the stress, decrease pain sensitivity and improves coping skills.

  • Have a seizure response plan, help those around you know what to do.

  • Prepare your living area, small changes may reduce the risk of physical injury during a seizure.

  • Understand what triggers seizures and try reducing or avoiding them.

  • Please pay attention to overall health as it can help in reducing seizure activity.

  • Install an alarm or emergency device to get assistance during a seizure attack.

Habit Forming

No

Therapeutic Class

ANTICONVULSANT

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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.

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, this 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 which is characterized 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.

Do not discontinue Depakote 500 Tablet without consulting your doctor. To treat your condition effectually, continue taking Depakote 500 Tablet for as long as prescribed. Do not be reluctant to speak with your doctor if you feel any difficulty while taking Depakote 500 Tablet ; your doctor will gradually reduce the dose to avoid worsening seizures.

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.

It's crucial to consult with your doctor before discontinuing Depakote 500 Tablet . Abruptly stopping this medication can lead to severe consequences, mainly if it's prescribed to treat conditions like epilepsy.

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.

Depakote 500 Tablet can indeed make you sleepy. This is a common side effect of the medication. If you're experiencing excessive drowsiness, you must talk to your doctor.

Yes, Depakote 500 Tablet can cause hair loss as a side effect. While this isn't a common side effect, it can occur in some people. If you notice significant hair loss while taking Depakote 500 Tablet , it's essential to consult with your doctor.

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.

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.

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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