Depakote ER (Divalproex ER)

Do’s

• Before starting Depakote ER, read the Medication Guide and, if available, the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist. If you have any questions, ask your healthcare provider.
• The dosage of Depakote ER is based on your age, weight, medical condition, response to treatment, and other medications you may be taking. Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate dosage for you.
• Take Depakote ER by mouth as directed by your healthcare provider, usually once daily. You may take it with food if stomach upset occurs. Swallow the tablets whole.
• Use this medication regularly to obtain the most benefit from it. Remember to take it at the same time each day to keep the amount of medication in your blood constant.
• Depakote ER does not relieve acute migraine headaches. Take other medications as directed by your healthcare provider for acute attacks.
• Inform your healthcare provider if your condition does not improve.

Don’ts

• Do not crush or chew the tablets, as doing so can release all of the drug at once, increasing the risk of side effects.
• If Depakote ER is used for seizures, do not stop taking it without consulting your healthcare provider. Your condition may become worse if the drug is suddenly stopped. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased.

Common Side Effects:

• Constipation
• Dry mouth
• Eructation
• Flatulence
• Gastralgia
• Discoid lupus erythematosus
• Dry skin
• Ecchymosis
• Furunculosis
• Maculopapular rash
• Petechia
• Pruritus
• Rash

Serious Side Effects:

• Liver damage
• Life-threatening pancreatitis
• Suicidal thoughts
• Blood and metabolic disorders
• Increased risk of birth defects when taken during pregnancy  

Erectile dysfunction has also been reported as a side effect of Depakote ER, but it is not known if it affects libido. If individuals experience sexual side effects while taking Depakote ER, they should consult their healthcare provider, who may prescribe a different treatment that doesn't cause these side effects.

Avoid becoming pregnant while using Depakote ER, as it may harm an unborn baby. If pregnancy occurs, consult a healthcare provider immediately about the risks and benefits of this medication.

Depakote ER is contraindicated in patients with known mitochondrial disorders, hypersensitivity to the drug, and urea cycle disorders. Additionally, it is contraindicated in pregnant women and women of childbearing potential who are not using effective contraception.

Depakote ER may interact with other drugs. Consult a healthcare provider before taking any drug, changing any diet, or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment. 

Avoid alcohol consumption while taking Depakote ER, as it may increase certain side effects.

Depakote ER should not be administered to patients with hepatic disease or significant hepatic dysfunction. 

These warnings and precautions are essential to consider when using Depakote ER. Consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice and guidance.