Depakote XR 500 Tablet

Short Description

Depakote XR 500 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 500 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.

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 500 Tablet may be taken with or without food but it is better to take it at a fixed time.

Side Effects

Headache Blurred vision Nausea Vomiting Dizziness Tiredness Unsteadiness Bruising Decreased body temperature

Alcohol Warning

Depakote XR 500 Tablet may cause excessive drowsiness with alcohol.

Breastfeeding Warning

Depakote XR 500 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 500 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

Depakote XR 500 Tablet is an antiepileptic medication. It controls seizures or fits by decreasing the abnormal and excessive activity of the nerve cells in the brain.

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.