Divalproex is used to control certain types of seizures associated with epilepsy. It is also used to treat the manic phase of bipolar disorder and prevent migraines.
What is Divalproex?
Divalproex is an anticonvulsant. It reduces or prevents seizures by controlling nerve impulses in the central nervous system. Its exact mechanism of action in case of bipolar disorder and migraine has not yet been identified.
How should Divalproex be taken?
Divalproex is administered orally through different forms.
Side effects associated with Divalproex
Taking divalproex can cause severe inflammation of the pancreas, increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and some brain problems, reduce the number of platelets, cause hypothermia or interfere with the results of certain laboratory tests ( such as urine ketones).
Among the other possible side effects of divalproex include the following:
- Appetite changes
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Hair loss
- Headache
- Indigestion
- Nausea
- Stomach cramps or pain
- Insomnia
- Vomiting
- Weakness
- Weight changes
It is important to contact a doctor immediately if you experience:
- Rash
- Urticaria
- Itch
- Difficulty breathing
- Tightness in the chest or chest pain
- Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, throat or tongue
- Strange thoughts
- Changes in menstrual cycle
- Changes in behavior
- Dark or bloody stools
- Difficulty speaking
- Urinary problems
- Extreme fatigue
- Fainting
- Fast or irregular heartbeat
- Hallucinations
- Hearing loss
- Involuntary movements of the arms, legs, face, jaw, mouth or tongue
- Articolar pains
- Lack of energy
- Coordination problems
- Memory problems
- New or worsening of psychological problems
- New or worsening convulsions
- Epistaxis
- Feeling of shots to the chest
- Redness, swelling, blistering or peeling of the skin
- Tinnitus
- Severe nausea, vomiting or sore throat
- Shortness of breath
- Suicidal thoughts
- Swelling of arms or legs
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Symptoms of an ongoing infection
- Symptoms of liver problems
- Tremors
- Bruising or bleeding
- Unusual tiredness
- Vision problems
Contraindications and warnings associated with the use of Divalproex
Divalproex is contraindicated in case of liver problems or defects in the urea cycle. It is also prohibited in children younger than 2 years old who are suffering from mitochondrial disorders or for the treatment of migraines during pregnancy.
Before starting treatment with divalproex, it is important to tell your doctor if:
- You have any allergies to the active substance, its excipients, or to any other drugs. food and various substances
- You are taking any other medications, herbal remedies or supplements. Mentioning in particular: other anticonvulsants, benzodiazepines, felbamate, salicylates, clonazepam, topiramate, carbamazepine, carbapenems, hydantoins, mefloquine, oral contraceptives, rifampicin, ritonavir, anticoagulants, barbiturates, ethosuximide, lamotrigine, methylphenidate, quetiapine, rufinamide, tolbutamide, tricyclic antidepressants or zidovudine
- You are suffering (or have suffered) from cancers, liver disease, metabolic disease, blood disease, HIV infection, cytomegalovirus, high levels of ammonia in the blood, high levels of glycine or glutamine, low body temperature, low albumin, brain problems, mental delays, pancreatitis, kidney disease, unexplained coma, ornithine transcarbamylase deficiency and psychological or mood problems
- You are suffering from persistent vomiting, sluggishness or severe irritability
- You are suffering from dehydration
- You are experiencing (or have experienced) suicidal thoughts
- You are suffering (or have suffered) from alcohol or drug abuse
- You are planning on undergoing surgery
- You have a family history of urea cycle disorders or unexplained infant deaths
- You are pregnant or breast-feeding
Treatment with divalproex should never be stopped abruptly due to the increased risk of seizures.The drug can impair the ability to drive or operate hazardous machinery. This side effect can be exacerbated by alcohol and other drugs.
