Divalproex vs. Depakene for Epilepsy: Important Differences and Potential Risks.

Divalproex

(Depakote)

valproic acid

Summary for Divalproex

Prescription only

Divalproex (Depakote) is an antiepileptic medication used to treat certain types of seizures, bipolar disorder, and prevent migraines. The medication comes as delayed-release (DR) tablets, extended-release (ER) tablets, and sprinkle capsules. You take it by mouth, either once a day or in divided doses, depending on your condition and the form that's prescribed. Common side effects include stomach pain, hair loss, and diarrhea. Serious risks include liver problems, inflammation of the pancreas, and birth defects if taken during pregnancy.

Indications for Divalproex

Pros and Cons for Divalproex

Pros

Used for seizures, bipolar disorder, and migraine prevention
Dose is adjusted based on your response
Available in multiple forms
Can be used alone or with other medications

Cons

Won't help if you have a migraine attack
Interacts with many medications
Not safe to take in pregnancy
Requires regular blood work and lab tests

Common Side Effects for Divalproex

Bipolar disorder

Sleepiness (19-26%)
Indigestion (9-23%)
Nausea (19-22%)
Vomiting (12-13%)
Dizziness (12%)
Accidental injury (6-11%)
Stomach pain (9-10%)
Weakness (6-10%)

Seizures

Nausea (48%)
Headache (31%)
Weakness (27%)
Vomiting (27%)
Sleepiness (27%)
Tremor (25%)
Dizziness (25%)
Stomach pain (23%)

Migraine

Nausea (15-31%)
Weakness (20%)
Sleepiness (7-17%)
Infection (15%)
Indigestion (7-13%)
Diarrhea (7-12%)
Dizziness (12%)
Vomiting (7-11%)

Warnings for Divalproex

Liver problems
Birth defects
Inflammation of the pancreas
Suicidal thoughts or behavior
Bleeding and blood conditions
High ammonia levels
Low body temperature
Severe skin reactions
Serious allergic reaction
Sleepiness in older adults
Interaction with other medications

Summary for Depakene

Prescription only

Valproic acid is an antiepileptic medication used to treat certain types of seizures in children and adults. It lessens seizures by balancing chemicals in the brain. Valproic acid is taken by mouth and is available as capsules and oral solution. Your provider will help determine the dose based on your body weight, symptoms and side effects, and blood work. Some common side effects of valproic acid include tremors, nausea, and headache. Though rare, this medication might also cause serious liver problems. Valproic acid can't be taken during pregnancy because it can cause serious birth defects.

Indications for Depakene

Pros and Cons for Depakene

Pros

Available as a lower-cost generic
Dose can be adjusted based on your response
Available in capsules and liquid solution
Can be used on its own or with other medications to control seizures

Cons

Can’t take while pregnant
Requires regular blood work and lab tests to make sure your liver is healthy
Interacts with many medications, such as phenytoin (Dilantin)
More likely to cause stomach irritations compared to divalproex (Depakote)

Common Side Effects for Depakene

Tremor (25-57%)
Nausea (34-48%)
Headache (up to 31%)
Excess sleepiness (27-30%)
Vomiting (23-27%)
Feeling weak (21-27%)
Dizziness (18-25%)
Hair loss (up to 24%)
Diarrhea (13-23%)
Stomach pain (12-23%)

Please note: These side effects were reported by people who took divalproex (Depakote) to treat seizures in clinical studies. Divalproex (Depakote) turns into valproic acid once it's absorbed into the gut.