Depakote Side Effects
Depakote is used to treat seizures in people with epilepsy. It is recommended that you take medicine regularly. Missing a dose can trigger an attack. To remember your amount, set the alarm or use another way to remind yourself. Your pharmacist can also advise you on ways to remember to take medicine.
Side effects
Depakote is a prescription drug that can have harmful side effects for both children and adults. This medicine, divalproex sodium or valproic acid, is often prescribed to treat seizures. It can cause severe, unpredictable side effects. Children and adults should speak with their healthcare providers to discuss possible risks and side effects.
Interactions
The drug Depakote has several drug interactions. Some of these interactions are dangerous and can increase or decrease the effectiveness of your medication. Some of these interactions can be fatal. For example, this drug may increase the concentration of diazepam in your serum. It can also increase the engagement of magnesium and aluminum hydroxide in your blood. Moreover, it can interact negatively with other medicines, supplements, or foods. As a result, discussing your medication regimen with your healthcare provider to avoid drug interactions is essential.
Dosage
The dose of Depakote varies depending on the individual. It is generally taken once daily and is available in sprinkled capsules or tablets. Sprinkle capsules must be swallowed whole and should never be crushed or chewed. Tablets are taken by swallowing the sprinkled pills with a glass of water. The mixture should not be stored or refrigerated. The dosage of Depakote is adjusted over time, and the lowest dose that achieves the desired effects is prescribed.
Precautions
If prescribed Depakote to treat seizures, you must follow the directions written on the label. The doctor may recommend that you take Depakote with or without food. It is best to take the medication with a meal so that you won't have stomach upset. It is also important to remember that you should not take two doses simultaneously.
Symptoms
While Depakote can help people cope with depression, it can also have unwanted side effects. This drug can make people tired and affect their judgment. This medication is best taken with the assistance of a healthcare provider. It is essential to avoid alcohol and substances that can make people tired while they are taking them. Depakote is also best to be kept out of the reach of children.
Warnings
Depakote has recently faced new warnings from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The latest alerts highlight the potential risk of congenital disabilities during pregnancy. A study published in the Journal of Neurology in 2006 indicated that exposure to the drug during pregnancy might cause an increased risk of autism. The study included 632 children, half exposed to epilepsy drugs while in the womb. The researchers found that children who were exposed to the drug during pregnancy had seven times the chance of developing autism than children who were not exposed to it.
Treatment
Treatment with Depakote may cause a variety of side effects. It would help if you discussed these side effects with your doctor. You may experience confusion, lightheadedness, low body temperature, and constipation. Depakote can also cause skin rashes and severe blistering. Some people may experience kidney or liver damage. If you are prone to any of these symptoms, your doctor may recommend a different medication.
