Depakote XR 250 Tablet
Manufacturer
Sanofi India Ltd
Salt Composition
Divalproex (250mg)
Key Information
Short Description
Depakote XR 250 Tablet is a medicine used to treat epilepsy, prevent and control seizures (fits), and prevent migraines. It is also used to treat bipolar disorder.
Dosage Form
Tablet ER
Introduction
Depakote XR 250 Tablet may be used alone or in combination with other medicines. The dose and how often you need to take it will be decided by your doctor so that you get the right amount to control your symptoms. You can take this medicine with or without food but take it at the same time each day to get the most benefit. It usually takes a couple of weeks to work. It is important to take this medicine regularly and for as long as you are advised even if you feel well. Missing doses may trigger seizures and if you stop your condition may get worse. It should never be stopped suddenly.
Directions for Use
Take this medicine in the dose and duration as advised by your doctor. Swallow it as a whole. Do not chew, crush or break it. Depakote XR 250 Tablet may be taken with or without food but it is better to take it at a fixed time.
Safety Information
Side Effects
Headache Blurred vision Nausea Vomiting Dizziness Tiredness Unsteadiness Bruising Decreased body temperature
Alcohol Warning
Depakote XR 250 Tablet may cause excessive drowsiness with alcohol.
Breastfeeding Warning
Depakote XR 250 Tablet is safe to use during breastfeeding. Human studies suggest that the drug does not pass into the breastmilk in a significant amount and is not harmful to the baby.
Pregnancy Warning
Depakote XR 250 Tablet is unsafe to use during pregnancy as there is definite evidence of risk to the developing baby. However, the doctor may rarely prescribe it in some life-threatening situations if the benefits are more than the potential risks. Please consult your doctor.
Interacting Medicines
Alprazolam Chlordiazepoxide Clobazam Clonazepam
How it works
Depakote XR 250 Tablet is an antiepileptic medication. It controls seizures or fits by decreasing the abnormal and excessive activity of the nerve cells in the brain.
Quick Tips
Take your medication regularly as directed by your doctor as missing doses can trigger seizures. It can be taken with or without food but better to take with food to avoid stomach upset. Do not change the brand of your medicine and make sure that you have sufficient amount of medicine present with you. Practice yoga every day. Get enough sleep at nighttime. Limit the use of screen time such as mobile/laptop. Take your medication on time. Monitor your weight during treatment with this medicine as it can cause weight gain.
Related Medicines
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Multiprox-ER 250 Tablet
Divalpin 250mg Tablet ER
Dilavexx OD 250 Tablet ER
Divalneuro 250mg Tablet ER
Diivrex 250mg Tablet ER
D-Valneb 250 Tablet ER
Lamiprex 250 Tablet ER
Frequently asked questions
What should I do if I stop taking Depakote XR 250 Tablet?
You should not stop taking Depakote XR 250 Tablet without consulting your doctor. The dose of Depakote XR 250 Tablet should be gradually reduced under the supervision of a doctor or specialist. Abruptly stopping medication can lead to recurrence of symptoms, such as irritability, anxiety, dizziness, and tremors.
Is Depakote XR 250 Tablet used for mood stabilization?
Yes, Depakote XR 250 Tablet can sometimes be used as a mood stabilizer. It is prescribed to individuals experiencing rapid mood swings. It works by calming the overactivity in the brain during mood changes.
Can Depakote XR 250 Tablet cause weight gain?
Yes, Depakote XR 250 Tablet may lead to weight gain. This increase can be due to increased hunger. Regular dietary monitoring and physical activity can help prevent any weight gain. If you have concerns about weight gain, consult your doctor.
Does Depakote XR 250 Tablet make me sleepy?
Yes, Depakote XR 250 Tablet may cause drowsiness. Driving or other tasks requiring mental focus should be avoided until you know how it affects you.
Does Depakote XR 250 Tablet cause hair loss?
Yes, Depakote XR 250 Tablet may cause temporary hair loss. This is typically dose-related and resolves within a short time frame. However, if the hair loss persists for an extended period, consult your doctor.
Can Depakote XR 250 Tablet damage my liver?
Yes, Depakote XR 250 Tablet can potentially cause liver damage. This risk is higher during the first six months of treatment. Symptoms of liver damage include nausea or vomiting, loss of appetite, stomach pain, dark-colored urine, facial swelling, yellowing of the skin or white of the eyes. Regular liver function tests are crucial before starting the medication and for monitoring throughout the initial 6 months, especially in individuals with a history of liver disease.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Depakote XR 250 Tablet?
Avoid consuming alcohol while on Depakote XR 250 Tablet. Mixing alcohol with this medication may increase drowsiness, dizziness, or lightheadedness.
What laboratory tests are recommended before taking Depakote XR 250 Tablet?
Before starting treatment with Depakote XR 250 Tablet, your doctor might order blood tests. These may include a complete blood count (CBC), which assesses platelet levels and bleeding time, as well as coagulation tests to assess the risk of spontaneous bruising or bleeding. Additionally, liver function tests are essential before therapy to evaluate liver health.
What should I do if I experience abdominal pain, nausea, and anorexia?
If you experience severe abdominal pain accompanied by nausea and vomiting, it might indicate pancreatitis. Seek immediate medical attention; your doctor may order a serum amylase test to check for pancreatic issues. If the test results are positive for pancreatitis, stop taking Depakote XR 250 Tablet immediately.
How do I determine if there is an overdose of Depakote XR 250 Tablet?
Depakote XR 250 Tablet overdose can manifest as headaches, blurred vision due to pupil dilation, lack of reflexes, confusion, and fatigue. You may also experience weak or “floppy” muscles, seizures, loss of consciousness, behavioral changes, and breathing difficulties such as rapid breathing, shortness of breath, or chest pain. In case of overdose, immediate medical attention is crucial.
