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Tegretol vs. Depakote

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

Key takeaways

Carbamazepine (Tegretol) and divalproex (Depakote) are both antiepileptic medications, but they have different uses and side effects. Carbamazepine is used to treat various types of seizures, trigeminal neuralgia (a type of facial nerve pain), and bipolar I disorder (Equetro brand only). Divalproex, on the other hand, is used for seizures, bipolar disorder, and migraine prevention. Carbamazepine works by blocking sodium channels in the brain, while divalproex increases the levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) to control seizures. Both medications can cause sleepiness and dizziness, but carbamazepine can also cause low blood cell counts, while divalproex can lead to high blood ammonia levels. Additionally, both medications are available in generic forms and require regular blood tests to monitor their effects on your body. Neither medication is safe to use during pregnancy due to the risk of harm.

Carbamazepine

(Tegretol)

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Divalproex

(Depakote)

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Summary for Tegretol

Prescription only

Carbamazepine (Tegretol) is an antiseizure medication used to treat different kinds of seizures. It can also help with trigeminal neuralgia, a type of facial nerve pain. Brand name Equetro is the only formulation that's approved to treat bipolar I disorder. Carbamazepine (Tegretol) available as pills and a liquid. Depending on formulation you take and what medical condition you have, carbamazepine (Tegretol) is taken by mouth 1 to 4 times per day. Common side effects include sleepiness, dizziness, and stomach upset.

Indications for Tegretol

Pros and Cons for Tegretol

Pros

  • Works well for different types of seizures and trigeminal neuralgia (facial nerve pain)
  • Helps stabilize mood in people with bipolar disorder (Equetro brand only)
  • Available as a lower-cost generic
  • Comes in many dosage forms (e.g., chewable tablets, oral pills, liquid form) for people who have difficulty swallowing pills

Cons

  • Might need to take the immediate-release form of the medication up to 4 times a day
  • Can cause a lot of side effects
  • Might require routine blood testing while taking the medication to see how it's affecting your body
  • Can make hormonal birth control not work as well

Common Side Effects for Tegretol

  • Dizziness (44%)
  • Sleepiness (32%)
  • Nausea (29%)
  • Vomiting (18%)
  • Difficulty walking or keeping balance (15%)
  • Constipation (10%)
  • Itching (8%)
  • Dry mouth (8%)
  • Weakness (8%)
  • Rash (7%)
  • Blurry vision (6%)
  • Speech problems (6%)

Warnings for Tegretol

  • Severe skin reactions
  • Low blood cell counts
  • Severe allergic reactions
  • Suicidal thoughts or behavior
  • Harm to unborn babies
  • Withdrawal
  • Difficulty with speech, concentration, and movement
  • Liver problems
  • Low sodium levels
  • High eye pressure
  • Heart block (heart rhythm problems)

Summary for Depakote

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 Depakote

Pros and Cons for Depakote

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 Depakote

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 Depakote

  • 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 Tegretol vs. Depakote

Price Card Drug Icon
Carbamazepine180 tablets / 200mg
$39.31$186.95
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Price Card Drug Icon
Divalproex60 tablets / 500mg
$21.66$92.82
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