Valpram (other name Depakote)

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

blood disease

brain damage or disease

kidney disease

liver disease

low blood proteins

suicidal thoughts, plans, or attempt; a previous suicide attempt by you or a family member

urea cycle disorder (UCD)

an unusual or allergic reaction to divalproex sodium, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

pregnant or trying to get pregnant

breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with a drink of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Do not crush or chew. If this medicine upsets your stomach, take it with food or milk. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take it more often than directed.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is less than four hours to your next dose, take only that dose and skip the missed dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

aspirin

barbiturates, like phenobarbital

diazepam

soniazid

medicines for depression, anxiety, or psychotic disturbances

medicines that treat or prevent blood clots like warfarin

meropenem

other seizure medicines

rifampin

tolbutamide

zidovudine

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. If you are taking this medicine to treat epilepsy (seizures), do not stop taking it suddenly. This increases the risk of seizures. Wear a medical identification bracelet or chain to say you have epilepsy or seizures, and carry a card that lists all your medicines.
You may get drowsy, dizzy, or have blurred vision. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medicine affects you. To reduce dizzy or fainting spells, do not sit or stand up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. Alcohol can increase drowsiness and dizziness. Avoid alcoholic drinks.
This medicine can cause blood problems. This can mean slow healing and a risk of infection. Problems can arise if you need dental work, and in the day to day care of your teeth. Try to avoid damage to your teeth and gums when you brush or floss your teeth.
This medicine can make you more sensitive to the sun. Keep out of the sun. If you cannot avoid being in the sun, wear protective clothing and use sunscreen. Do not use sun lamps or tanning beds/booths.
The use of this medicine may increase the chance of suicidal thoughts or actions. Pay special attention to how you are responding while on this medicine. Any worsening of mood, or thoughts of suicide or dying should be reported to your health care professional right away.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

changes in the frequency or severity of seizures

double vision or uncontrollable eye movements

nausea and vomiting

redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth

stomach pain or cramps

trembling of hands or arms

unusual bleeding or bruising or pinpoint red spots on the skin

unusual swelling of the arms or legs

unusually weak or tired

worsening of mood, thoughts or actions of suicide or dying

yellowing of skin or eyes

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

change in menstrual cycle

diarrhea or constipation

headache

loss of bladder control

loss of hair or unusual growth of hair

loss or increase in appetite

weight gain or loss

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.
Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Keep container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.