Divalproex
Information about Divalproex
Divalproex uses
Divalproex is used in the treatment of epilepsy/seizures, Prevention of migraine and Bipolar disoder.
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, Nausea, Vomiting, Sleepiness, Hair loss, Weight gain, Double vision, Diarrhea, Tremor, Weight loss, Flu-like symptoms
Content Details
Last updated on:
08 Nov 2019 | 04:38 PM (IST)
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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 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. Sudden stoppage 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, you may gain weight while being on Divalproex therapy. The exact reason is still not known but it may be due to an increase in hunger. Keep a check on your diet and exercise regularly to prevent any weight gain.
Q. Does Divalproex make you sleepy?
Yes, Divalproex may make you feel sleepy. Do not drive or do other work that requires mental focus until you know how it affects you.
Q. Does Divalproex cause hair loss?
Yes, hair loss may occur due to the use of Divalproex. However, it is only for a short time and is usually dose related.
Q. Can Divalproex damage my liver?
Divalproex can cause damage to the liver and the risk is more likely to occur during the first 6 months of starting Divalproex. Signs might include nausea or vomiting, loss of appetite, stomach pain, dark colored urine, facial swelling, yellowing of the skin, or white of eyes. Investigations for liver function should be done before therapy and then 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?
It is recommended that you should avoid alcohol 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?
Blood tests (blood cell count, including platelet count, bleeding time, and coagulation tests) are recommended prior to initiation of therapy or before surgery, and in case of spontaneous bruising or bleeding. Investigations for liver function should be done before therapy and then should be monitored periodically 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. You should 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, then the medication should be stopped immediately.
Q. How to check for overdose?
Overdose of the medicine may cause headaches, blurred eyesight due to pupils of the eyes becoming smaller, lack of reflexes, confusion, and tiredness. You may also have 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.