Depakote ER (Divalproex Sodium)

Description

Depakote ER (divalproex sodium) extended-release tablets, for oral use, is a medication prescribed:

• For treating manic or mixed episodes associated with bipolar disorder
• For treating complex partial seizures and simple and complex absence seizures
• As adjunctive therapy for multiple seizure types that include absence seizures
• For preventing migraines

Depakote ER is available in 250 mg and 500 mg tablets for oral administration.

Directions

Depakote ER should be taken as prescribed, and is intended for once-daily administration. Your doctor will determine an appropriate Depakote ER dosage and regimen for you based on your weight and condition being treated.

Talk to your doctor or pharmacist and carefully read the medication guide for further usage instructions.

Store at 77°F (25°C).

Any questions or concerns may be referred to your doctor or pharmacist.

Ingredients

Divalproex sodium is the active ingredient in Depakote ER.

FD&C Blue No. 1, hypromellose, lactose, microcrystalline cellulose, polyethylene glycol, potassium sorbate, propylene glycol, silicon dioxide, titanium dioxide, and triacetin are the inactive ingredients included. Iron oxide and polydextrose are also contained in the 500 mg tablets.

Contraindications

Do not take Depakote ER if you have any of the following conditions:

• Liver disease or significant liver dysfunction
• Mitochondrial disorders due to mutations in mitochondrial DNA polymerase ?? (POLG)
• POLG-related disorder that is suspected in children younger than 2 years old
• Allergy to the medication
• Urea cycle disorders

Pregnant women and women of childbearing potential who are not using effective birth control methods should not take Depakote ER for preventing migraines.

Cautions

• Before you begin taking Depakote ER, tell your doctor about:
• All the medications you take, including prescription and nonprescription medications
• Your allergies
• Your current health conditions
• Your past medical history
• Your status of pregnancy or breastfeeding
• Depakote ER has the following Boxed Warning:
• Liver toxicity, including death, usually during the first 6 months of receiving treatment. The risk is higher in children younger than 2 years old and in patients with mitochondrial disorders. Patients should be monitored closely and liver testing should be completed before starting treatment with Depakote ER and at frequent intervals during treatment.
• Harm to an unborn baby, including neural tube defects, decreased IQ, and other major malformations
• Pancreatitis, including fatal bleeding cases
• Depakote ER is associated with the following warnings and precautions:
• Liver toxicity
• Birth defects, decreased IQ, and neurodevelopmental disorders with exposure in utero
• Pancreatitis
• Increased risk of suicidal behavior or thoughts
• Bleeding or other blood disorders
• Hyperammonemia and hyperammonemic encephalopathy
• Hypothermia
• Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms/Multiorgan hypersensitivity reaction
• Drowsiness in older patients

Side Effects

Depakote ER side effects may include but are not limited to abdominal pain, hair loss, amblyopia (“lazy eye”)/blurred vision, amnesia, anorexia, lack of energy, poor muscle control, back pain, bronchitis, constipation, depression, diarrhea, double vision, dizziness, shortness of breath, indigestion, bruising, emotional lability, fever, flu syndrome, headache, increased appetite, infection, trouble sleeping, nausea, nervousness, involuntary eye movements, peripheral edema, pharyngitis, rash, rhinitis, drowsiness, thinking abnormal, low platelets, ringing in the ears, tremor, vomiting, and weight changes.

Immediately inform your doctor of any bothersome or persistent side effects you experience while receiving treatment with Depakote ER.

Searching for a competitive Depakote ER cost? Here, you can buy Depakote ER with a valid prescription from your doctor.

Reference

1. Depakote ER. North Chicago, IL: AbbVie Inc.; 2025.

About Dr. Savannah Muncy (Page Author)

Dr. Muncy (PharmD) studied science and education as an undergraduate before attending the Appalachian College of Pharmacy where she completed her PharmD in three years. She is currently using her pharmacy and healthcare expertise to write medical content for clients all around the world. She is focused on delivering the most current, accurate, and engaging information to healthcare professionals and patients. Read More....