Product Description.:
WARNING: This medication has rarely caused serious (sometimes fatal) liver problems. Children less than 2 years old are more likely to develop severe liver problems, especially if they have metabolic problems, severe seizures with mental retardation, brain disease (organic) or if they take more than one drug for seizures. If valproic acid is being used in patients with these conditions, then it should not be taken with additional anti-seizure medications. Liver function tests should be performed before and during treatment. Early signs of serious liver problems include vomiting, unusual tiredness, swelling of the face or loss of seizure control in patients with seizure disorder. Tell your doctor immediately if you develop any of these symptoms. This medication has rarely caused severe (sometimes fatal) disease of the pancreas (pancreatitis). This problem may occur at any time during therapy and may worsen quickly. Tell your doctor immediately if you experience stomach/abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite while taking this medication. This medication can cause birth defects. (See also Precautions section)
USES: This medication is used to treat seizure disorders. It works by restoring the balance of certain natural substances (neurotransmitters) in the brain.
OTHER USES: This drug may also be used for the prevention of migraine headaches and treatment of certain psychiatric conditions (e.g., manic phase of bipolar disorder, schizophrenia).
HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor. You may take it with food if stomach upset occurs. Swallow the capsule whole. Do not crush or chew the capsule, which can irritate the mouth or throat. Dosage is based on your weight, medical condition, and response to therapy. Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Remember to use it at the same time each day to keep the amount of medication in your blood constant. If this medication is used for seizures, do not stop taking it without consulting your doctor. Your condition may become worse if the drug is suddenly stopped. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased. This medication does not relieve acute migraine headaches. Take other medications as directed by your doctor for acute attacks. Inform your doctor if your condition does not improve.
SIDE EFFECTS: See also Warning section. Diarrhea, dizziness, drowsiness, hair loss, blurred/double vision, change in menstrual periods, ringing in the ears, shakiness (tremor), unsteadiness, weight changes may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur: mental/mood changes, signs of infection (e.g., fever, persistent sore throat). Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: chest pain, easy bruising/unexplained bleeding, fast/irregular heartbeat, swelling of hands/feet, uncontrolled eye movement (nystagmus). Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely but very serious side effects occur: dark urine, persistent nausea/vomiting, severe stomach/abdominal pain, yellowing eyes or skin. Severe (sometimes fatal) brain disorder (encephalopathy) has rarely occurred, particularly in patients with certain metabolic disorders (urea cycle disorders). Tell your doctor immediately if you develop unexplained weakness and vomiting or sudden mental changes. A serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: See also Warning section. Before taking valproic acid, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it or to divalproex or valproate sodium or if you have any other allergies. This medication should not be used if you have certain medical conditions. Before using this drug, consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have: liver disease, pancreatitis, certain metabolic disorders (urea cycle disorders). Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: alcohol abuse, bleeding problems, brain disease (dementia), kidney disease, low body water (dehydration), poor nutrition. Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist that you are taking valproic acid. This drug may make you dizzy, drowsy, or cause blurred vision. Use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness or clear vision such as driving or using machinery. Do not engage in such activities until you know how this medication affects you. Limit alcoholic beverages. Caution is advised when using this drug in the elderly because they may be more sensitive to its side effects, especially drowsiness or tremor.
