Overview
Depakote is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of manic episodes associated with bipolar disorder. Depakote is also known by its drug name, divalproex sodium.

Depakote is an anti-seizure drug. Scientists believe it works by increasing levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a brain chemical that helps calm nerve activity, which may stabilize mood and reduce manic symptoms.

How do I take it?
Prescribing information states that Depakote is taken orally as delayed-release tablets in divided doses throughout the day. It should be swallowed whole and not crushed or chewed. Dosing typically begins daily and may be increased as quickly as needed to achieve symptom control. The medication should be taken exactly as prescribed by a healthcare provider.

Side effects
Common side effects of Depakote include abdominal pain, alopecia (hair loss), asthenia (weakness), diarrhea, diplopia (double vision), dizziness, headache, infection, insomnia (trouble sleeping), nausea, somnolence (sleepiness), thrombocytopenia (low platelet count), tremor, and vomiting.

Rare but serious side effects may include hepatotoxicity (severe liver damage), pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), suicidal thoughts or behavior, hyperammonemia (high ammonia levels in the blood) and encephalopathy (brain dysfunction), hypothermia (dangerously low body temperature), serious skin reactions including Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS), angioedema (swelling beneath the skin), bleeding disorders, and fetal risks such as neural tube defects and decreased IQ when used during pregnancy.

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Label: Depakote — Divalproex Sodium Tablet, Delayed Release— DailyMed