Divalproex Sodium

Divalproex sodium (Depakote^®) is a prescription medicine approved for the following uses:

Treatment of manic episodes associated with bipolar disorder (manic depression)
Treatment of complex partial seizures and simple or complex absence seizures
Prevention of migraine headaches (it does not help treat a headache once it starts).

You can buy divalproex in various forms, including delayed-release tablets and sprinkle capsules. The dose and type your healthcare provider recommends will depend on the condition being treated, your weight, and other factors.

Shakiness, nausea, weakness, and drowsiness are some of the most common side effects. To help ensure that this is the right medication for you, talk to your healthcare provider if you have liver disease, a blood disorder, or any allergies.

(To learn more about this drug's dosing guidelines, side effects, and safety warnings, click Divalproex.)