What is divalproex ER 250 mg used for?
This medication is used to treat seizure disorders, mental/mood conditions (such as manic phase of bipolar disorder), and to prevent migraine headaches. It works by restoring the balance of certain natural substances (neurotransmitters) in the brain.
What is valproic used for?
Valproic acid is used to treat bipolar disorder. It’s occasionally used to prevent migraine and can also be used to treat epilepsy.
When do you take Depakote ER level?
It is recommended that trough levels for the DR version be drawn immediately prior to the morning dose, assuming a twice-daily dosing strategy. For once-daily divalproex ER regimens, the ideal time to draw serum levels is immediately prior to the next scheduled dose.
Is divalproex used for anxiety?
Divalproex isn’t currently approved to treat anxiety, depression, or schizophrenia. But the drug may be used off-label for these conditions. Off-label drug use means using a drug for a purpose other than what it’s been approved for by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
What is divalproex used for in mental health?
The medication Depakote (divalproex sodium) is an anticonvulsant. Doctors prescribe it to treat seizure disorders and to prevent migraine headaches. People also use it to manage the manic phase of bipolar disorder. Depakote side effects can be serious and sometimes fatal.
What epilepsy means?
Epilepsy is a central nervous system (neurological) disorder in which brain activity becomes abnormal, causing seizures or periods of unusual behavior, sensations and sometimes loss of awareness. Anyone can develop epilepsy. Epilepsy affects both males and females of all races, ethnic backgrounds and ages.
What is the most common treatment for bipolar disorder?
Typically, treatment entails a combination of at least one mood-stabilizing drug and/or atypical antipsychotic, plus psychotherapy. The most widely used drugs for the treatment of bipolar disorder include lithium carbonate and valproic acid (also known as Depakote or generically as divalproex).
What happens if I stop taking carbamazepine?
If you stop taking the carbamazepine all at once, the balance starts to change again. You could get your old symptoms back. There is a risk that you may get seizures (fits). This is because even if you are not taking the carbamazepine for epilepsy, your body has got used to having an anticonvulsant medication on board.
What happens if Depakote levels are too high?
Symptoms of overdosage of Depakote include changes in consciousness, fainting, and slow or irregular heartbeat. Contact your doctor urgently if you experience stomach pain that spreads to your back, nausea and vomiting, dark urine, facial swelling, loss of appetite, or yellowing of the skin or eyes.
Why do Depakote levels need to be checked?
Depakote levels are routinely checked with blood tests to make sure you have neither too little nor too much in your system. Too little will render it ineffective while too much may be toxic.