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Divalproex (valproate)

Brand names: Depakote, Depakote ER, Depakene

Divalproex (valproate) treats epilepsy, bipolar mania, and prevents migraines.

Brand namesDepakote, Depakote ER, Depakene
Type of medicineAnticonvulsant and mood stabilizer
Prescription?Prescription
ImportantThis page is general information, not a prescription. Don't start, stop, or change a medicine without talking to your provider or pharmacist.

Overview

Blood levels, liver tests, and blood counts are checked.

What it's used for

  • Seizures
  • Bipolar mania
  • Preventing migraines

How to take it

  • Swallow delayed- and extended-release tablets whole. Sprinkle capsules can be opened onto soft food.
  • Take it with food if it upsets your stomach.
  • Don't stop suddenly; this can trigger seizures. Your provider will lower the dose slowly.

Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.

Side effects

Common side effects

  • Nausea
  • Tremor
  • Hair thinning
  • Weight gain
  • Sleepiness
Call 911Severe belly pain, vomiting, or loss of appetite (possible pancreatitis)
Call your provider todayYellow skin or eyes, swelling, unusual tiredness, or vomiting (possible liver damage)
Call your provider todayUnusual bruising or bleeding
Call your provider todayConfusion or extreme sleepiness (high ammonia)
Call 911Thoughts of suicide or harming yourself. Call or text 988 any time.

Warnings

  • Boxed warnings: serious liver damage (highest risk in children under 2), pancreatitis, and major birth defects and lower IQ in children exposed in pregnancy.
  • Not for people with certain mitochondrial disorders.

Other medicines, foods, and alcohol

  • It raises lamotrigine levels; doses must change.
  • Aspirin and carbapenem antibiotics change its levels.
  • Topiramate may raise ammonia levels.

Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Valproate can cause serious birth defects and lower IQ. People who could become pregnant should use reliable birth control and talk with their provider about other options.

Missed doses, overdose, and storage

If you miss a dose

Take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. Then skip the missed dose. Don't take two doses at once.

If someone takes too much

Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.

Storing it

Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.

Conditions it's used for

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-13.