Valproic Acid, Divalproex Sodium
Divalproex Sodium Gastro-resistant tablet
What is this medicine?
DIVALPROEX SODIUM (dye VAL pro ex SO dee um) is used to prevent seizures caused by some forms of epilepsy. It is also used to treat bipolar mania and to prevent migraine headaches.
This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
blood disease
brain damage or disease
kidney disease
liver disease
low blood proteins
mitochondrial disease
suicidal thoughts, plans, or attempt; a previous suicide attempt by you or a family member
urea cycle disorder (UCD)
an unusual or allergic reaction to divalproex sodium, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
pregnant or trying to get pregnant
breast-feeding
How should I use this medicine?
Take this medicine by mouth with a drink of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Do not crush or chew. If this medicine upsets your stomach, take it with food or milk. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take it more often than directed.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
What may interact with this medicine?
aspirin
barbiturates, like phenobarbital
diazepam
isoniazid
medicines for depression, anxiety, or psychotic disturbances
medicines that treat or prevent blood clots like warfarin
meropenem
other seizure medicines
rifampin
tolbutamide
zidovudine
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. If you are taking this medicine to treat epilepsy (seizures), do not stop taking it suddenly. This increases the risk of seizures. Wear a medical identification bracelet or chain to say you have epilepsy or seizures, and carry a card that lists all your medicines.
You may get drowsy, dizzy, or have blurred vision. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medicine affects you. To reduce dizzy or fainting spells, do not sit or stand up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. Alcohol can increase drowsiness and dizziness. Avoid alcoholic drinks.
This medicine can cause blood problems. This can mean slow healing and a risk of infection. Problems can arise if you need dental work, and in the day to day care of your teeth. Try to avoid damage to your teeth and gums when you brush or floss your teeth.
This medicine can make you more sensitive to the sun. Keep out of the sun. If you cannot avoid being in the sun, wear protective clothing and use sunscreen. Do not use sun lamps or tanning beds/booths.
The use of this medicine may increase the chance of suicidal thoughts or actions. Pay special attention to how you are responding while on this medicine. Any worsening of mood, or thoughts of suicide or dying should be reported to your health care professional right away.
Women who become pregnant while using this medicine may enroll in the North American Antiepileptic Drug Pregnancy Registry by calling 1-888-233-2334. This registry collects information about the safety of antiepileptic drug use during pregnancy.
Contact your doctor or healthcare professional if you notice any part of your medicine in your stool. Your healthcare provider may want to check the amount of medicine in your blood if this happens.
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:
allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
changes in the frequency or severity of seizures
double vision or uncontrollable eye movements
nausea and vomiting
redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth
stomach pain or cramps
trembling of hands or arms
unusual bleeding or bruising or pinpoint red spots on the skin
unusual swelling of the arms or legs
unusually weak or tired
worsening of mood, thoughts or actions of suicide or dying
yellowing of skin or eyes
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
change in menstrual cycle
diarrhea or constipation
headache
loss of bladder control
loss of hair or unusual growth of hair
loss or increase in appetite
weight gain or loss
This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Where should I keep my medicine?
Keep out of reach of children.
Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Keep container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
Divalproex Sodium Oral capsule, gastro-resistant sprinkles
What is this medicine?
DIVALPROEX SODIUM (dye VAL pro ex SO dee um) is used to treat certain types of seizures in patients with epilepsy.
This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
blood disease
brain damage or disease
kidney disease
liver disease
low blood proteins
mitochondrial disease
suicidal thoughts, plans, or attempt; a previous suicide attempt by you or a family member
urea cycle disorder (UCD)
an unusual or allergic reaction to divalproex sodium, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
pregnant or trying to get pregnant
breast-feeding
How should I use this medicine?
Take this medicine by mouth. It can be swallowed whole or the capsules may be opened carefully and the contents sprinkled on about one teaspoonful of applesauce or pudding. This mixture must be swallowed immediately. Do not chew or store for later use. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Do not stop taking this medicine unless instructed by your doctor or health care professional. Stopping your medicine suddenly can increase your seizures or their severity.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
What may interact with this medicine?
aspirin
barbiturates, like phenobarbital
diazepam
isoniazid
medicines for depression, anxiety, or psychotic disturbances
medicines that treat or prevent blood clots like warfarin
meropenem
other seizure medicines
rifampin
tolbutamide
zidovudine
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. Wear a Medic Alert bracelet or necklace. Carry an identification card with information about your condition, medications, and doctor or health care professional.
You may get drowsy, dizzy, or have blurred vision. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medicine affects you. To reduce dizzy or fainting spells, do not sit or stand up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. Alcohol can increase drowsiness and dizziness. Avoid alcoholic drinks.
This medicine can cause blood problems. This can mean slow healing and a risk of infection. Problems can arise if you need dental work, and in the day to day care of your teeth. Try to avoid damage to your teeth and gums when you brush or floss your teeth.
This medicine can make you more sensitive to the sun. Keep out of the sun. If you cannot avoid being in the sun, wear protective clothing and use sunscreen. Do not use sun lamps or tanning beds/booths.
The use of this medicine may increase the chance of suicidal thoughts or actions. Pay special attention to how you are responding while on this medicine. Any worsening of mood, or thoughts of suicide or dying should be reported to your health care professional right away.
Women who become pregnant while using this medicine may enroll in the North American Antiepileptic Drug Pregnancy Registry by calling 1-888-233-2334. This registry collects information about the safety of antiepileptic drug use during pregnancy.
Contact your doctor or healthcare professional if you notice any part of your medicine in your stool. Your healthcare provider may want to check the amount of medicine in your blood if this happens.
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:
allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
changes in the frequency or severity of seizures
double vision or uncontrollable eye movements
nausea and vomiting
redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth
stomach pain or cramps
trembling of hands or arms
unusual bleeding or bruising or pinpoint red spots on the skin
unusual swelling of the arms or legs
unusually weak or tired
worsening of mood, thoughts or actions of suicide or dying
yellowing of skin or eyes
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
change in menstrual cycle
diarrhea or constipation
headache
loss of bladder control
loss of hair or unusual growth of hair
loss or increase in appetite
weight gain or loss
This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Where should I keep my medicine?
Keep out of reach of children.
Store at room temperature below 25 degrees C (77 degrees F). Keep container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
Divalproex Sodium Oral tablet, extended-release
What is this medicine?
DIVALPROEX SODIUM (dye VAL pro ex SO dee um) is used to prevent seizures caused by some forms of epilepsy. It is also used to treat bipolar mania and to prevent migraine headaches.
This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
blood disease
brain damage or disease
kidney disease
liver disease
low blood proteins
mitochondrial disease
suicidal thoughts, plans, or attempt; a previous suicide attempt by you or a family member
urea cycle disorder (UCD)
an unusual or allergic reaction to divalproex sodium, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
pregnant or trying to get pregnant
breast-feeding
How should I use this medicine?
Take this medicine by mouth with a drink of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Do not crush or chew. If this medicine upsets your stomach, take it with food or milk. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take it more often than directed.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
What may interact with this medicine?
aspirin
barbiturates, like phenobarbital
diazepam
isoniazid
medicines for depression, anxiety, or psychotic disturbances
medicines that treat or prevent blood clots like warfarin
meropenem
other seizure medicines
rifampin
tolbutamide
zidovudine
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. If you are taking this medicine to treat epilepsy (seizures), do not stop taking it suddenly. This increases the risk of seizures. Wear a medical identification bracelet or chain to say you have epilepsy or seizures, and carry a card that lists all your medicines.
You may get drowsy, dizzy, or have blurred vision. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medicine affects you. To reduce dizzy or fainting spells, do not sit or stand up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. Alcohol can increase drowsiness and dizziness. Avoid alcoholic drinks.
This medicine can cause blood problems. This can mean slow healing and a risk of infection. Problems can arise if you need dental work, and in the day to day care of your teeth. Try to avoid damage to your teeth and gums when you brush or floss your teeth.
This medicine can make you more sensitive to the sun. Keep out of the sun. If you cannot avoid being in the sun, wear protective clothing and use sunscreen. Do not use sun lamps or tanning beds/booths.
The use of this medicine may increase the chance of suicidal thoughts or actions. Pay special attention to how you are responding while on this medicine. Any worsening of mood, or thoughts of suicide or dying should be reported to your health care professional right away.
Women who become pregnant while using this medicine may enroll in the North American Antiepileptic Drug Pregnancy Registry by calling 1-888-233-2334. This registry collects information about the safety of antiepileptic drug use during pregnancy.
Contact your doctor or healthcare professional if you notice any part of your medicine in your stool. Your healthcare provider may want to check the amount of medicine in your blood if this happens.
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:
allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
changes in the frequency or severity of seizures
double vision or uncontrollable eye movements
nausea and vomiting
redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth
stomach pain or cramps
trembling of hands or arms
unusual bleeding or bruising or pinpoint red spots on the skin
unusual swelling of the arms or legs
unusually weak or tired
worsening of mood, thoughts or actions of suicide or dying
yellowing of skin or eyes
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
change in menstrual cycle
diarrhea or constipation
headache
loss of bladder control
loss of hair or unusual growth of hair
loss or increase in appetite
weight gain or loss
This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Where should I keep my medicine?
Keep out of reach of children.
Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Keep container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
Valproate Sodium Solution for injection
What is this medicine?
VALPROATE SODIUM (val PRO ate SO dee um) is used to treat certain types of seizures in patients with epilepsy.
This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
blood disease
brain damage or disease
kidney disease
liver disease
low blood proteins
mitochondrial disease
suicidal thoughts, plans, or attempt; a previous suicide attempt by you or a family member
urea cycle disorder (UCD)
an unusual or allergic reaction to divalproex sodium, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
pregnant or trying to get pregnant
breast-feeding
How should I use this medicine?
This medicine is for infusion into a vein. It is given by a health care professional in a hospital or clinic setting.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.
What if I miss a dose?
This does not apply.
What may interact with this medicine?
aspirin
barbiturates, like phenobarbital
diazepam
isoniazid
medicines for depression, anxiety, or psychotic disturbances
medicines that treat or prevent blood clots like warfarin
meropenem
other seizure medicines
rifampin
tolbutamide
zidovudine
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
Your condition will be monitored carefully while you are receiving this medicine.
You may get drowsy, dizzy, or have blurred vision. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medicine affects you. To reduce dizzy or fainting spells, do not sit or stand up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. Alcohol can increase drowsiness and dizziness. Avoid alcoholic drinks.
This medicine can cause blood problems. This can mean slow healing and a risk of infection. Problems can arise if you need dental work, and in the day to day care of your teeth. Try to avoid damage to your teeth and gums when you brush or floss your teeth.
This medicine can make you more sensitive to the sun. Keep out of the sun. If you cannot avoid being in the sun, wear protective clothing and use sunscreen. Do not use sun lamps or tanning beds/booths.
The use of this medicine may increase the chance of suicidal thoughts or actions. Pay special attention to how you are responding while on this medicine. Any worsening of mood, or thoughts of suicide or dying should be reported to your health care professional right away.
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:
allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
changes in vision
changes in the frequency or severity of seizures
nausea, vomiting
redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth
stomach pain or cramps
trembling of hands or arms
unusual bleeding or bruising or pinpoint red spots on the skin
unusual swelling of the arms or legs
unusually weak or tired
worsening of mood, thoughts or actions of suicide or dying
yellowing of the eyes or skin
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
change in menstrual cycle
diarrhea or constipation
headache
loss of bladder control
loss of hair or unusual growth of hair
loss or increase in appetite
weight gain or loss
This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Where should I keep my medicine?
This drug is given in a hospital or clinic and will not be stored at home.
Valproic Acid Oral capsule
What is this medicine?
VALPROIC ACID (val PROE ik AS id) is used to treat certain types of seizures in patients with epilepsy.
This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
blood disease
brain damage or disease
kidney disease
liver disease
low blood proteins
mitochondrial disease
suicidal thoughts, plans, or attempt; a previous suicide attempt by you or a family member
urea cycle disorder (UCD)
an unusual or allergic reaction to divalproex sodium, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
pregnant or trying to get pregnant
breast-feeding
How should I use this medicine?
Take this medicine by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Swallow the capsules whole with a drink of water. Do not crush or chew. If this medicine upsets your stomach, take it with food or milk. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Do not stop taking this medicine unless instructed by your doctor or health care professional. Stopping your medicine suddenly can increase your seizures or their severity.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
What may interact with this medicine?
aspirin
barbiturates, like phenobarbital
diazepam
isoniazid
medicines for depression, anxiety, or psychotic disturbances
medicines that treat or prevent blood clots like warfarin
meropenem
other seizure medicines
rifampin
tolbutamide
zidovudine
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. Wear a Medic Alert bracelet or necklace. Carry an identification card with information about your condition, medications, and doctor or health care professional.
You may get drowsy, dizzy, or have blurred vision. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medicine affects you. To reduce dizzy or fainting spells, do not sit or stand up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. Alcohol can increase drowsiness and dizziness. Avoid alcoholic drinks.
This medicine can cause blood problems. This can mean slow healing and a risk of infection. Problems can arise if you need dental work, and in the day to day care of your teeth. Try to avoid damage to your teeth and gums when you brush or floss your teeth.
This medicine can make you more sensitive to the sun. Keep out of the sun. If you cannot avoid being in the sun, wear protective clothing and use sunscreen. Do not use sun lamps or tanning beds/booths.
The use of this medicine may increase the chance of suicidal thoughts or actions. Pay special attention to how you are responding while on this medicine. Any worsening of mood, or thoughts of suicide or dying should be reported to your health care professional right away.
Women who become pregnant while using this medicine may enroll in the North American Antiepileptic Drug Pregnancy Registry by calling 1-888-233-2334. This registry collects information about the safety of antiepileptic drug use during pregnancy.
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:
allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
blurred or double vision or uncontrollable eye movements
changes in the frequency or severity of seizures
nausea and vomiting
redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth
stomach pain or cramps
trembling of hands or arms
unusual bleeding or bruising or pinpoint red spots on the skin
unusual swelling of the arms or legs
unusually weak or tired
worsening of mood, thoughts or actions of suicide or dying
yellowing of skin or eyes
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
change in menstrual cycle
diarrhea or constipation
headache
loss of bladder control
loss of hair or unusual growth of hair
loss or increase in appetite
weight gain or loss
This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Where should I keep my medicine?
Keep out of reach of children.
Store at room temperature between 15 and 25 degrees C (59 and 77 degrees F). Keep container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
Valproic Acid Oral capsule, gastro-resistant
What is this medicine?
VALPROIC ACID (val PROE ik AS id) is used to prevent seizures caused by some forms of epilepsy. It is also used to treat bipolar mania and to prevent migraine headaches.
This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
blood disease
brain damage or disease
kidney disease
liver disease
low blood proteins
mitochondrial disease
suicidal thoughts, plans, or attempt; a previous suicide attempt by you or a family member
urea cycle disorder (UCD)
an unusual or allergic reaction to valproic acid, divalproex, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
pregnant or trying to get pregnant
breast-feeding
How should I use this medicine?
Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Do not cut, crush or chew this medicine. Take this medicine with food if it upsets your stomach. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take it more often than directed.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
What may interact with this medicine?
aspirin and aspirin-like medicines
barbiturates, like phenobarbital
diazepam
isoniazid
medicines for depression, anxiety, or psychotic disturbances
medicines that treat or prevent blood clots like warfarin
meropenem
other seizure medicines
rifampin
tolbutamide
zidovudine
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. If you are taking this medicine to treat epilepsy (seizures), do not stop taking it suddenly. This increases the risk of seizures. Wear a medical identification bracelet or chain to say you have epilepsy or seizures, and carry a card that lists all your medicines.
You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medicine affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells. Alcohol may interfere with the effect of this medicine. Avoid alcoholic drinks.
This medicine can slow healing and increase the risk of infection. Problems can arise if you need dental work, and in the day to day care of your teeth. Try to avoid damage to your teeth and gums when you brush or floss your teeth.
This medicine can make you more sensitive to the sun. Keep out of the sun. If you cannot avoid being in the sun, wear protective clothing and use sunscreen. Do not use sun lamps or tanning beds/booths.
The use of this medicine may increase the chance of suicidal thoughts or actions. Pay special attention to how you are feeling while on this medicine. Any worsening of mood, or thoughts of suicide or dying should be reported to your health care professional right away.
Women who become pregnant while using this medicine may enroll in the North American Antiepileptic Drug Pregnancy Registry by calling 1-888-233-2334. This registry collects information about the safety of antiepileptic drug use during pregnancy.
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:
allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
changes in the frequency or severity of seizures
double vision or uncontrollable eye movements
nausea, vomiting
redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth
stomach pain or cramps
suicidal thoughts or other mood changes
trembling of hands or arms
unusual bleeding or bruising or pinpoint red spots on the skin
unusual swelling of the arms or legs
unusually weak or tired
yellowing of skin or eyes
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
change in menstrual cycle
diarrhea or constipation
headache
loss of bladder control
loss of hair or unusual growth of hair
loss or increase in appetite
weight gain or loss
This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Where should I keep my medicine?
Keep out of reach of children.
Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Keep container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
Valproic Acid Oral solution
What is this medicine?
VALPROIC ACID (val PROE ik AS id) is used to treat certain types of seizures in patients with epilepsy.
This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
blood disease
brain damage or disease
kidney disease
liver disease
low blood proteins
mitochondrial disease
suicidal thoughts, plans, or attempt; a previous suicide attempt by you or a family member
urea cycle disorder (UCD)
an unusual or allergic reaction to divalproex sodium, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
pregnant or trying to get pregnant
breast-feeding
How should I use this medicine?
Take this medicine by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Shake well before using. Use a specially marked spoon or container to measure your medicine. Ask your pharmacist if you do not have one. Household spoons are not accurate. If this medicine upsets your stomach, mix with liquid or a small amount of food. Do not take with carbonated drinks. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not stop taking this medicine unless instructed by your doctor or health care professional. Stopping your medicine suddenly can increase your seizures or their severity.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
What may interact with this medicine?
aspirin
barbiturates, like phenobarbital
diazepam
isoniazid
medicines for depression, anxiety, or psychotic disturbances
medicines that treat or prevent blood clots like warfarin
meropenem
other seizure medicines
rifampin
tolbutamide
zidovudine
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. Wear a Medic Alert bracelet or necklace. Carry an identification card with information about your condition, medications, and doctor or health care professional.
You may get drowsy, dizzy, or have blurred vision. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medicine affects you. To reduce dizzy or fainting spells, do not sit or stand up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. Alcohol can increase drowsiness and dizziness. Avoid alcoholic drinks.
This medicine can cause blood problems. This can mean slow healing and a risk of infection. Problems can arise if you need dental work, and in the day to day care of your teeth. Try to avoid damage to your teeth and gums when you brush or floss your teeth.
This medicine can make you more sensitive to the sun. Keep out of the sun. If you cannot avoid being in the sun, wear protective clothing and use sunscreen. Do not use sun lamps or tanning beds/booths.
The use of this medicine may increase the chance of suicidal thoughts or actions. Pay special attention to how you are responding while on this medicine. Any worsening of mood, or thoughts of suicide or dying should be reported to your health care professional right away.
Women who become pregnant while using this medicine may enroll in the North American Antiepileptic Drug Pregnancy Registry by calling 1-888-233-2334. This registry collects information about the safety of antiepileptic drug use during pregnancy.
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:
allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
changes in the frequency or severity of seizures
double vision or uncontrollable eye movements
nausea and vomiting
redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth
stomach pain or cramps
trembling of hands or arms
unusual bleeding or bruising or pinpoint red spots on the skin
unusual swelling of the arms or legs
unusually weak or tired
worsening of mood, thoughts or actions of suicide or dying
yellowing of skin or eyes
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
change in menstrual cycle
diarrhea or constipation
headache
loss of bladder control
loss of hair or unusual growth of hair
loss or increase in appetite
weight gain or loss
This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Where should I keep my medicine?
Keep out of reach of children.
Store at room temperature below 30 degrees C (86 degrees F). Do not freeze. Keep container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
Updated:  
March 21, 2017
Sources:  
U.S. FDA-approved Package Insert