Tablets
DIVALPROEX (dye-VAL-pro-ex) is the chemical name for Depakote.

Depakote Common Uses
Depakote is used to control seizures; this medicine is an anticonvulsant. Treatment of migraine headaches, manic episodes, and other conditions may also be done by using this medicine. It can also be used in other circumstances for treatment, as if determined by your doctor.

Before Using Depakote
Patients using this drug may hardly have serious (possibly fatal) liver problems. For Children: If children also have a severe seizure disorder along with mental retardation; are using more than one seizure control drug; have body process (metabolic) problems or have brain disorders and are under the age of 2 years than they have higher risk to experience liver problems. For these patients, that any additional seizure control drugs with this medicine must not be used. Loss of seizure control, vomiting, and unusual tiredness/weakness, loss of appetite, yellowing eyes/skin, or swelling of the face are the early symptoms of liver problems. If you develop any of these signs, immediately contact your doctor. Before start taking this drug and also while taking this drug, you should have your Liver tests. Patients using this drug may hardly have serious (possibly fatal) pancreatitis. Abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite are the early symptoms of pancreatitis. If you develop any of these signs, immediately contact your doctor. Patients using this drug may hardly have serious (possibly fatal) encephalopathy (decreased mental status). Unusual weakness, vomiting, or mental changes are the early symptoms of encephalopathy. If you develop any of these signs, immediately contact your doctor. Birth defects may be caused by this drug. There are chances that any other medicines or medical conditions may interact with this medicine therefore all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking should be known by your doctor or pharmacist. If you are taking barbiturates, benzodiazepines, or other medicine for seizures than additional observation should be required of your dose or condition. Without consulting doctor do not start or stop taking the medicine. If you have any other medical conditions, allergies, pregnancy, or breast-feeding than immediately inform your doctor. If you have a history of liver conditions, pancreatitis, or a certain metabolic disorder (urea cycle disorder), it is recommended not to use this medicine. If you have any further queries regarding the medicine than contact your doctor.

Storage
Depakote should be stored at room temperature between 15-30°C (59-86°F) in a tightly-sealed container and in a dry place and away from heat and direct light.