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Compare Trileptal vs. Depakote

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

Key takeaways

Trileptal (oxcarbazepine) and divalproex (Depakote) are both antiepileptic medications, but they have different uses and side effects. Trileptal is mainly used to treat partial-onset seizures and is available in both immediate-release and extended-release forms (Oxtellar XR). Divalproex, on the other hand, is used for a broader range of conditions, including seizures, bipolar disorder, and migraine prevention. While Trileptal works by blocking sodium channels in the brain, divalproex increases the levels of GABA, a calming chemical in the brain. Both medications can cause dizziness and nausea, but divalproex has a higher risk of serious side effects like liver problems and pancreatitis. Both medications are available in generic forms, making them more affordable options.

Trileptal (oxcarbazepine)
Divalproex (Depakote)
Trileptal (oxcarbazepine)
Divalproex (Depakote)
Summary of Trileptal vs. Depakote
Summary for Antiepileptic
Prescription only
Trileptal (oxcarbazepine) helps treat partial-onset seizures (also known as focal onset aware seizures), which are seizures that start on one side of the brain. It can be taken by both adults and children, either on its own or with other antiseizure medications. Trileptal (oxcarbazepine) is taken by mouth, either once or twice daily. Some common side effects include dizziness, nausea, and headaches. It's available as generic tablets and oral suspensions, and also under the brand names Trileptal and Oxtellar XR.
Summary for Antiepileptic
Prescription only
Divalproex (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 Trileptal vs. Depakote
Indications for

•Partial-onset seizures

Indications for

•Bipolar disorder

•Seizures (focal impaired awareness seizure, absence seizure)

•Migraine prevention
Pros and Cons of Trileptal vs. Depakote
Pros and Const for Antiepileptic
Pros

•Works well for partial-onset seizures

•Immediate-release oxcarbazepine (Trileptal) can be used in children as young as 2 years old

•Available as an extended-release tablet taken once daily

•Available as an oral liquid for people having trouble swallowing the tablets

Cons

•Safety in pregnant and breastfeeding females isn't completely clear

•Interacts with many medications

•Can affect focus, concentration, and your ability to react quickly

•Can cause life-threatening skin reactions

Pros and Const for Antiepileptic
Pros

•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 seizures

Cons

•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 healthy
Common Side Effects of Trileptal vs. Depakote
Common Side Effects for

•Dizziness (22%)

•Nausea (16%)

•Headache (13%)

•Vomiting (7%)

•Diarrhea (7%)

•Runny nose, sore throat, and other symptoms of an upper respiratory tract infection (7%)

Please note: These side effects were reported by people in clinical trials who took Trileptal (oxcarbazepine) on its own, without having taken other antiseizure medications before. The side effects you experience might be different if you're taking or have taken other antiseizure medications.
Common Side Effects for
Bipolar 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 Trileptal vs. Depakote
Common Side Effects for

•Low blood sodium levels

•Severe allergic and skin reactions

•Risk of suicidal thoughts

•Difficulty with speech, concentration, and movement

•Higher risk for other seizures

•Withdrawal

Common 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 medications
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Key takeaways

Summary of Trileptal vs. Depakote

Indications of Trileptal vs. Depakote

Pros and Cons of Trileptal vs. Depakote

Common Side Effects of Trileptal vs. Depakote

Warnings of Trileptal vs. Depakote

Prices with our coupons for Trileptal vs. Depakote

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