Zarontin vs. Depakene for Epilepsy: Important Differences and Potential Risks.

Ethosuximide

(Zarontin)

valproic acid

Summary for Zarontin

Prescription only

Ethosuximide (Zarontin) is an antiepileptic medication that's used for treating absence seizures, also known as petit mal seizures. It works by calming down brain activity to lower the number of seizure attacks. This medication is FDA approved for people 3 years and older. It comes as a capsule and syrup under the brand name Zarontin and in lower-cost generic versions. Ethosuximide (Zarontin) is taken by mouth once a day or in smaller doses throughout the day. Some possible side effects include stomach upset, nausea, and dizziness.

Indications for Zarontin

Absence seizures (also known as petit mal seizures)

Pros and Cons for Zarontin

Pros

A first-choice treatment for absence seizures in children
Available as a pill and a fruit-flavored liquid
Available as a lower-cost generic

Cons

Only treats absence seizures (must take other medications if you have a mixed seizure type)
Requires regular blood tests to check your liver, kidney, and blood cell counts for your safety
Might interact with some other antiepileptic medications

Common Side Effects for Zarontin

Poor appetite
Stomach upset
Nausea or vomiting
Diarrhea
Stomach cramps or stomach pain
Drowsiness
Tiredness
Headache
Dizziness
Difficulty with walking, movement, or coordination
Difficulty concentrating
Weight loss

Warnings for Zarontin

Low blood cell counts
Liver and kidney damage
Lupus
Suicidal thoughts or behavior
Severe allergic reactions
Risk for seizures if you stop taking ethosuximide (Zarontin) suddenly
Treats absence seizures only

Summary for Depakene

Prescription only

Valproic 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 for Depakene

Pros and Cons for Depakene

Pros

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 seizures

Cons

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)
More likely to cause stomach irritations compared to divalproex (Depakote)

Common Side Effects for Depakene

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 for Depakene

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 medications

Prices with our coupons for Zarontin vs. Depakene

Ethosuximide120 capsules / 250mg

$43.50$241.30

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Valproic Acid120 capsules / 250mg

$31.95$72.10

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Zarontin vs. Depakene

Ethosuximide

valproic acid

Summary for Zarontin

Indications for Zarontin

Pros and Cons for Zarontin

Pros

Cons

Common Side Effects for Zarontin

Warnings for Zarontin

Summary for Depakene

Indications for Depakene

Pros and Cons for Depakene

Pros

Cons

Common Side Effects for Depakene

Warnings for Depakene

Prices with our coupons for Zarontin vs. Depakene

Compare other Epilepsy drugs

Browse medications by letter

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Ethosuximide

valproic acid

Summary for Zarontin

Indications for Zarontin

Pros and Cons for Zarontin

Pros

Cons

Common Side Effects for Zarontin

Warnings for Zarontin

Summary for Depakene

Indications for Depakene

Pros and Cons for Depakene

Pros

Cons

Common Side Effects for Depakene

Warnings for Depakene