Compare Lyrica vs. Depakote
Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Lyrica (Pregabalin) and Depakote (Divalproex) are both antiepileptic medications, but they have different uses and side effects. Pregabalin is used to treat nerve pain from conditions like diabetes, shingles, and spinal cord injuries, as well as fibromyalgia and partial-onset seizures. It is available in capsule and oral solution forms and is typically taken 2 or 3 times a day. Common side effects include dizziness and drowsiness. Depakote, on the other hand, is used to treat seizures, prevent migraines, and manage bipolar disorder. It comes in delayed-release and extended-release tablets, as well as sprinkle capsules, and is usually taken once or twice daily. Divalproex can cause nausea, sleepiness, and weight changes. Unlike pregabalin, divalproex is not a controlled substance but requires regular blood tests to monitor liver health. Both medications have generic versions available, making them more affordable.
- Pregabalin (Lyrica)Divalproex (Depakote)
- Pregabalin (Lyrica)Divalproex (Depakote)
Summary of Lyrica vs. Depakote
Summary for AntiepilepticPrescription onlyPregabalin (Lyrica) treats pain caused by nerve damage and fibromyalgia in adults. It can be used with other medications to prevent seizures for both adults and children. Pregabalin (Lyrica) is taken by mouth, typically 2 or 3 times a day. It's available as a capsule and oral solution. Some of the more common side effects of this medication include dizziness and drowsiness.
Summary for AntiepilepticPrescription onlyDivalproex (Depakote) is a prescription medication that's used alone or in combination with other medications to treat certain types of seizures. It can also be used to prevent migraines and treat bipolar disorder. Divalproex (Depakote) comes in delayed-release (DR) and extended-release (ER) tablets, as well as sprinkle capsules. You take it by mouth, typically once or twice daily, depending on the formulation. Divalproex (Depakote) can cause changes in weight, both in weight loss and weight gain. Don't suddenly stop taking this medication since it can raise your risk of withdrawal symptoms, including seizures.
Indications of Lyrica vs. Depakote
Indications for•Nerve pain from diabetes (diabetic peripheral neuropathy), shingles (postherpetic neuralgia), or spinal cord injury•FibromyalgiaIndications for•Bipolar disorder•Seizures (focal impaired awareness seizure, absence seizure)•Migraine preventionPros and Cons of Lyrica vs. Depakote
Pros and Const for AntiepilepticPros•Works well to relieve nerve pain caused by diabetes, shingles, and spinal cord injuries•Available in a capsule and oral solution•Used in combination with other anti-seizure drugs to treat partial-onset seizures•Available as a lower-cost genericCons•Can cause dizziness and drowsiness•Must avoid drinking alcohol•Not recommended for breastfeeding females•Can cause weight gainPros and Const for AntiepilepticPros•Available as a lower-cost generic•Dose can be adjusted based on your response•Available in various forms: delayed-release tablets, sprinkle capsules, and extended-release tablets•Can be used on its own or with other medications to control seizuresCons•Can prevent migraines from happening, but it won't help if you have a migraine attack•Interacts with many medications, such as phenytoin (Dilantin)•Can’t take while pregnant•Requires regular blood work and lab tests to make sure your liver is healthyCommon Side Effects of Lyrica vs. Depakote
Common Side Effects for•Dizziness (8-29%)•Drowsiness (4-16%)•Swelling of hands, feet, arms, or legs (4-12%)•Dry mouth (2-7%)•Weight gain (4-6%)Common Side Effects forBipolar disorder
•Nausea (22%)•Excess sleepiness (19%)•Dizziness (12%)•Vomiting (12%)•Accidental injury (11%)•Low energy (10%)Seizures
•Nausea (48%)•Headache (31%)•Feeling weak (27%)•Vomiting (27%)•Tremor (25%)•Dizziness (25%)•Stomach pain (23%)Migraine
•Nausea (31%)•Feeling weak (20%)•Excessive sleepiness (17%)•Indigestion (13%)•Diarrhea (12%)•Dizziness (12%)•Vomiting (11%)Warnings of Lyrica vs. Depakote
Common Side Effects for•Allergic reactions and severe swelling•Suicidal thoughts and behavior•Difficulty driving and concentrating•Breathing problems•Swelling in the limbs and weight gain•Withdrawal symptoms and risk of seizures•Possible risk of bleeds (from low platelet levels)•Possible risk of muscle breakdownCommon 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•Interaction with other medicationsPrices with our coupons for Lyrica vs. Depakote
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