Valproic Acid
(val-PRO-ik)
Definition | Special instructions | Missed dose | Side effects | Warning signs| Contact us
What is valproic acid?
Valproic acid (Depakene", Depakote", Depakote" Sprinkle Depacon", Depakote ER") is used alone, or with other drugs, to treat certain types of seizures in the treatment of epilepsy. It also is used to prevent migraine headaches, and to treat mood disorders. It is available in a number of different dosage forms, including:
- Delayed release tablets: 125 mg, 250 mg, 500 mg
- Divalproex sodium, sprinkle capsules: 125 mg
- Extended release tablets: 250 mg, 500 mg
- Valproic acid capsules: 250 mg
- Sodium valproate, syrup: 250 mg/5 mL
- Sodium valproate, injection: 100 mg/mL (5 mL)
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Special Instructions
- Valproic acid may cause an upset stomach. Make sure valproic acid is taken with food and that your child drinks plenty of water.
- Do not give the liquid with carbonated beverages.
- The regular capsules, delayed release, or extended release tablets should be swallowed whole. Do not bite, crush or chew the tablets.
- The sprinkle capsule may be swallowed whole, or the contents of the capsule may be sprinkled on a teaspoonful of soft food, such as applesauce or pudding, and swallowed. Do not allow your child to chew the food containing the particles.
- Ensure your child continues to take valproic acid even if he/she feels well. Your child should not stop taking valproic acid without talking to his/her healthcare provider, especially if your child has taken it for a long time.
- Tell your child's healthcare provider and pharmacist what prescription and non-prescription medications he/she is taking.
- Do not use after the expiration date on the bottle/package.
- If too much medication is taken by accident, call the Drug and Poison Information Center (DPIC), 513-636-5111 or 1-800-222-1222, or call your child's doctor immediately.
- Keep this medication out of the reach of children.
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If a Dose is Missed
For any medication information related to your child's dosing schedule and/or missed doses, contact the healthcare provider who prescribed the medication.
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Side Effects
Valproic acid can cause liver disorder. Call your child's doctor if your child develops symptoms of liver disorder that include:
- Abdominal or stomach cramps
- Loss of appetite
- Vomiting/nausea
- Diarrhea
- Weakness
- Fatigue
- Facial swelling
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
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Warning Signs
Call your child's healthcare provider immediately if your child is experiencing weakness, facial swelling, skin rash, easy bruising or tiny purple-colored spots, unusual bleeding, unexplained fever, severe abdominal pain, loss of seizure control, severe vomiting, dark urine, or jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes).
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Contact us
For additional information on this or any Health Topic, please call the Family Resource Center, 513-636-7606, or your pediatrician.
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Patient Education Program V 5167 5/01
Rev. 10/05, 8/07
