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Compare Imitrex vs. Depakote

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Sumatriptan (Imitrex) and divalproex (Depakote) are both prescription medications, but they serve different purposes and belong to different drug classes. Sumatriptan is a triptan used to treat migraines in adults, while divalproex is an antiepileptic used to treat seizures, prevent migraines, and manage bipolar disorder. Sumatriptan works by tightening blood vessels in the brain and reducing inflammation, whereas divalproex increases the levels of GABA, a calming chemical in the brain, to control seizures. Sumatriptan is taken as needed for migraines, but divalproex is taken daily, either once or twice, depending on the formulation. Sumatriptan can cause side effects like tingling and fatigue, while divalproex can lead to nausea, sleepiness, and weight changes. Additionally, divalproex requires regular blood tests to monitor liver health, and it is not safe to use during pregnancy. Both medications have generic versions available, making them more affordable.

  • Sumatriptan (Imitrex)
    Divalproex (Depakote)
  • Sumatriptan (Imitrex)
    Divalproex (Depakote)

  • Summary of Imitrex vs. Depakote

    Summary for Triptan
    Prescription only

    Sumatriptan (Imitrex) is used to treat migraines with or without aura in adults. The medication is typically taken as a single dose for your migraine. But, it's possible that you can take it again 2 hours after the first dose if your migraine doesn't go away. Side effects of sumatriptan (Imitrex) include tingling or numbness of fingers or toes, feeling too warm or too cold, and fatigue. It can interact with antidepressants and other similar migraine medications. Sumatriptan (Imitrex) is available as a lower-cost generic tablet.

    Summary for Antiepileptic
    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 of Imitrex vs. Depakote

    Indications for
    •Treatment of migraine attacks with or without aura in adults
    Indications for
    •Bipolar disorder
    •Seizures
    •Migraine prevention

  • Pros and Cons of Imitrex vs. Depakote

    Pros and Const for Triptan
    Pros
    •First-choice option for treating migraines
    •Can take with commonly used over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen (Tylenol)
    •Can start relieving migraine headaches within 30 minutes to 2 hours
    •Available as a lower-cost generic
    Cons
    •Can't use to prevent migraines
    •Must wait at least 2 hours after the first dose to take a second dose, if needed
    •Your migraines can get worse if you use this medication too often.
    •Unknown if it's safe or if it works well in children
    Pros and Const for Antiepileptic
    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 of Imitrex vs. Depakote

    Common Side Effects for
    •Tingling or numbness of fingers or toes (3-5%)
    •Feeling too warm or too cold (2-3%)
    •Fatigue (2-3%)
    Common Side Effects for

    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 of Imitrex vs. Depakote

    Common Side Effects for
    •Heart problems and high blood pressure
    •Stroke or other brain injury
    •Extreme narrowing of blood vessels
    •Serotonin syndrome
    •Allergic reactions
    •Seizures
    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 medications

  • Prices with our coupons for Imitrex vs. Depakote

    Learn more about Sumatriptan
    Learn more about Divalproex

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