Compare Divalproex vs. Depakene
Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
- Divalproex (Depakote)Valproic acid
- Divalproex (Depakote)Valproic acid
Summary of Divalproex vs. Depakene
Summary for AntiepilepticPrescription onlyDivalproex (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.
Summary for AntiepilepticPrescription onlyValproic 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 of Divalproex vs. Depakene
Indications forIndications forPros and Cons of Divalproex vs. Depakene
Pros and Const for AntiepilepticPros•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 medicationsCons•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 testsPros and Const for AntiepilepticPros•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 seizuresCons•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)Common Side Effects of Divalproex vs. Depakene
Common Side Effects forBipolar 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%)Common Side Effects for•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.
Warnings of Divalproex vs. Depakene
Common Side Effects for•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 medicationsCommon Side Effects for•Liver problems•Serious birth defects•Serious pancreas problems•Suicidal behavior and thoughts•Lower blood cell counts•Higher ammonia level in blood•Severe skin and allergic reactions•Excessive sleepiness in older adults•Interaction with other medicationsPrices with our coupons for Divalproex vs. Depakene
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