Depakote Side Effects

What is Depakote?

Depakote is prescribed to treat manic episodes associated with bipolar disorder, certain types of seizures and migraine headaches when prescribed as Depakote ER or delayed release. Depakote (valproate semisodium or divalproex sodium) is increasingly being used to treat and prevent the rapid cycling manic and depressive phases of bipolar disorder. It has also been utilized for epilepsy and chronic pain.

Potential for Abuse?

No information available.

Depakote can have serious side effects. If you experience any of the following symptoms while taking medication, seek emergency medial attention: nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, loss of appetite, low fever, dark urine, clay colored stools or jaundice - these are early signs of liver damange or signs of pancreatitis.

If you notice any new or worsening symptoms such as mood or behavior changes, depression, anxiety, agitation, hostility, restlessness, hyperactivity or thoughts about suicide, contact your doctor immediately.

Get emergency help immediately if you show any signs of being allergic to Depakote, such as hives, swelling of the face, tongue, lips or throat or difficulty breathing.

Other serious Depakote side effects:

unexplained weakness with vomiting and confusion or fainting
easy bruising or bleeding, blood in your urine
fever, sore throat, and headache with a severe blistering, peeling, and red skin rash
fever, chills, body aches, flu symptoms
urinating less than usual
hallucinations
extreme drowsiness, lack of coordination
double vision or back-and-forth movements of the eyes

Less serious Depakote side effects:

mild drowsiness or weakness
diarrhea, constipation, upset stomach
depression, anxiety, or other emotional changes
changes in your menstrual periods
enlarged breasts
tremors
hair loss
weight changes
vision changes
unusual or unpleasant taste in your mouth

This is not a complete list of Depakote side effects. Consult your doctor for a full list.

Interesting Depakote Tidbits

Here are some interesting tidbits on Depakote:

1-10% of people taking Depakote report strange dreams.
It is about five times as expensive as sodium valproate (Epilim), which is used to treat epilepsy.