Overview

Depakene was a prescription drug approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat epilepsy. Depakene was sometimes prescribed to treat depressive symptoms in people with bipolar disorder. Since the FDA had not approved Depakene specifically for this usage, it was considered “off-label.” Depakene was also known by its drug name, valproic acid. 

Depakene was an anticonvulsant. In cases of depression, Depakene was thought to work as a mood stabilizer. Depakene was believed to work by changing the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain.

How was it taken?

Depakene was taken as prescribed. Depakene came in capsule form.

Side effects

The FDA-approved label for Depakene listed common side effects including dizziness, drowsiness, weakness, blurred or double vision, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), unsteadiness, tremors, hair loss, strange taste in the mouth, diarrhea, constipation, and upset stomach. 

Rare but serious side effects listed for Depakene included liver damage, pancreatitis, and suicidal thoughts.

For more details about this treatment, visit:

Depakene Capsules — Drugs.com