Divalproex

Information about Divalproex

Divalproex Uses

Divalproex is used in the treatment of epilepsy/seizures, Bipolar disorder and migraine.

How Divalproex works

Divalproex is an antiepileptic medication. It controls seizures or fits by decreasing the abnormal and excessive activity of the nerve cells in the brain.

Common side effects of Divalproex

Headache, Dizziness, Blurred vision, Weakness, Abdominal pain, Infection, Nausea1a, Vomiting, Sleepiness, Hair loss, Weight gain, Double vision, Diarrhea, Tremor, Weight loss, Flu-like symptoms
CONTENT DETAILS
Written By
Dr. Swati Mishra
BDS
Reviewed By
Dr. Khushbu Goel
DM, MD
Last updated
28 Sep 2021 | 08:45 AM (UTC)

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Available Medicine for Divalproex

DicorateSun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd
₹51 to ₹1957 variant(s)
DivaaIntas Pharmaceuticals Ltd
₹48 to ₹25510 variant(s)
ValanceAbbott L
₹57 to ₹66415 variant(s)
DesvalEris Lifesciences Ltd
₹42 to ₹1794 variant(s)
Valance ODAbbott L
₹140 to ₹3326 variant(s)
Dayo ODLupin Ltd
₹37 to ₹2116 variant(s)
DivalgressLa Renon Healthcare Pvt Ltd
₹63 to ₹1574 variant(s)
ValkemAlkem Laboratories Ltd
₹35 to ₹2757 variant(s)
DepakoteSanofi India Ltd
₹135 to ₹3245 variant(s)
TrendTorrent Pharmaceuticals Ltd
₹51 to ₹1806 variant(s)

Expert advice for Divalproex

  • Take your medication regularly as directed by your doctor as missing doses can trigger seizures.
  • It can be taken with or without food, but better to take with food to avoid stoamch upset. 
  • Do not change the brand of your medicine and make sure that you have sufficient amount of medicine present with you.
  • Some healthy tips to prevent seizures:
    • Practice yoga every day.
    • Get enough sleep at nighttime.
    • Limit the use of screen time such as mobile/laptop.
    • Take your medication on time.
  • It may cause dizziness and sleepiness. Do not drive or do anything that requires mental focus until you know how it affects you.
  • Monitor your weight during treatment with this medicine as it can cause weight gain.
  • Your doctor may get regular blood tests done to monitor how the medication is affecting your body. Inform your doctor if you notice yellowing of eyes or skin, dark urine, or stomach pain.
  • Do not stop taking the medication suddenly without talking to your doctor as it may increase the seizure frequency.

Frequently asked questions for Divalproex

Divalproex

Q. What happens if I stop taking Divalproex?

You should not stop taking Divalproex without consulting your doctor. The dose of Divalproex should be reduced gradually and eventually can be stopped under the supervision of a doctor or specialist. Suddenly stopping the medication may lead to recurrence of symptoms or irritability, anxiety, dizziness and tremors.

Q. Is Divalproex a mood stabilizer?

Yes, Divalproex can sometimes be used as a mood stabilizer. It is given in patients who experience rapid changes in their mood. It works by calming the hyperactivity of the brain during mood changes.

Q. Can Divalproex cause weight gain?

Yes, Divalproex may cause weight gain. The gain in weight could be due to an increase in hunger. Keep a check on your diet and exercise regularly to prevent any weight gain. If you are have concerns related to weight gain, consult your doctor.

Q. Does Divalproex make you sleepy?

Yes, Divalproex may make you feel sleepy. Avoid driving or other work that requires mental focus until you know how it affects you.

Q. Does Divalproex cause hair loss?

Yes, Divalproex may cause hair loss. However, it is only for a short time and is usually dose related. Please consult your doctor if the hair loss bothers you or persists for a longer duration.

Q. Can Divalproex damage my liver?

Yes, Divalproex can cause damage to the liver. The risk is more likely to occur during the first 6 months of starting the treatment with Divalproex. Symptoms of liver damage may include nausea or vomiting, loss of appetite, stomach pain, dark coloured urine, facial swelling, yellowing of the skin or white of eyes. Therefore, it is important to have liver function tests done before starting the medicine and. Tests should be done periodically during the first 6 months of therapy, especially in those who are likely to be at risk and those with a prior history of liver disease.

Q. Can I take alcohol while I am taking Divalproex?

Avoid alcohol consumption while you are on treatment with Divalproex. Taking alcohol with this medicine may make you feel more drowsy, light headed or dizzy.

Q. What are the laboratory tests recommended prior to taking Divalproex?

The doctor may suggest blood tests before starting the treatment with Divalproex. The tests may include blood cell count, including platelet count, bleeding time and coagulation tests These tests are also advised to avoid any spontaneous bruising or bleeding. In addition to this, liver function tests are advised before therapy. It is recommended to periodically monitor liver function during the first 6 months of therapy, primarily in those who seem most at risk and those with a prior history of liver disease.

Q. What should be done if I start experiencing abdominal pain, nausea and anorexia?

If you experience acute severe abdominal pain along with nausea and vomiting, it may be due to pancreatitis. Immediately consult your doctor in case you experience these symptoms. Your doctor may get your levels of serum amylase checked. In case the test shows positive results for pancreatitis, the medication should be stopped immediately.

Q. How to check for overdose of Divalproex?

Overdose of Divalproex may cause headaches, blurred eyesight due to pupils of the eyes becoming smaller, lack of reflexes, confusion and tiredness. You may also experience weak or “floppy” muscles, fits (seizures), loss of consciousness, behavioral changes and breathing difficulties such as fast breathing, shortness of breath, or chest pain. Immediate medical assistance is required in case of overdose.

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