Depakene (Valproic Acid)

What is Depakene?

Depakene (valproic acid) is an anti-epileptic drug.

What is Depakene used for?

Depakene is used alone or in combination with other drugs in the treatment of complex partial seizure which may occur in isolation or in association with other types of seizures. It also helps to treat bipolar disorder or to prevent migraine headaches.

How does Depakene work?

Depakene has valproic acid as its main component. Valproic acid restores the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain.

How to use Depakene

Depakene should be used in the manner prescribed by a doctor. Taking the drug for longer or in larger amounts than prescribed may cause harmful effects. The dosage depends on your medical condition and response to treatment.

Depakene is usually taken orally once with a glass full of water. In case you are using the liquid form of the medicine, measure the correct dose with a measuring device provided by your pharmacist.

Drink plenty of water while undergoing treatment with this drug. If the fluid content of your body is less, there may be a change in the dose.

Do not stop your dose unless otherwise directed by your doctor. Stopping the intake of Depakene suddenly may cause serious withdrawal symptoms. The dose needs to be decreased gradually as per directions from your doctor.

However, if your condition does not improve at all or becomes worse consult your doctor immediately.

Depakene warnings and precautions

Depakene is not administered to patients who are allergic to Valproic acid. Patients who have liver disease or urea cycle disorder are strictly prohibited from using this drug as the drug may cause life-threatening pancreatitis.

Before taking the medication, inform your doctor about your bleeding or blood clotting disorder, a history of coma, head injury or brain disorder, or HIV or cytomegalovirus.

Depakene may cause fatal consequences in children aged below 2 years who have a metabolic disorder or mental impairment.

The drug may arouse suicidal thoughts. Inform your doctor if you start suffering from acute depression. Your family members should also be trained to monitor your mental condition.

Your liver functions need to be tested on a regular basis to detect harmful effects of the drug. The drug may cause drowsiness. Avoid activities which require alertness. Also, avoid consumption of alcohol as it can aggravate the side effects.

Always wear a medical alert tag or carry an ID mentioning the fact that you are undergoing treatment with Depakene while going out.

Depakene can cause serious birth defects. It can also pass through breast milk and can harm a nursing baby. Therefore, pregnant and lactating women are advised against using this drug. Inform your doctor immediately if you become pregnant during treatment.

What do I do if I have missed a Depakene dose?

If you have missed a Depakene dose, take it as soon as you remember. If, however, it is almost time for the next dose, the missed dose can be skipped. Do not take a double dose.

What do I do if I have taken a Depakene overdose?

If you have taken an overdose of Depakene, seek medical attention immediately.

Depakene interactions

Sleeping pills, sedatives, muscle relaxants, narcotic pain medicines, cough and cold medicines can increase drowsiness caused by Depakene. Avoid using these medications along with Depakene. Some other drugs which may interact are: aspirin, acetaminophen, diazepam, rifampin, ethosuximide, meropenem, zidovudine, blood thinners, topiramate, clozapine, or tolbutamide.

It is necessary to inform your doctor about all the prescription/non prescription drugs/herbal medicines that you are taking, before using Depakene.

You should not start taking any new medicine, without consulting your doctor.

Depakene side effects

Side effects from Depakene include allergic reactions as well as some serious symptoms such as lack of coordination, double vision, back and forth movement of the eyes, decreased urination, symptoms of flu, fever, skin rash, swollen glands, unexplained weakness along with vomiting, confusion and fainting, extreme drowsiness, bruising, bleeding, red, blistering, peeling skin rash, or blood in urine.

Seek emergency medical attention if you notice early symptoms of liver damage such as nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, loss of appetite, low fever, dark urine, clay-colored stools, or jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes). 

Weight changes, tremor, vision changes, hair loss, mild drowsiness, enlarged breasts, changes in menstrual cycle, unpleasant taste in mouth, diarrhea, constipation and stomach upset are some less serious side effects of Depakene.