When do you measure Depakote levels?
It is recommended that trough levels for the DR version be drawn immediately prior to the morning dose, assuming a twice-daily dosing strategy. For once-daily divalproex ER regimens, the ideal time to draw serum levels is immediately prior to the next scheduled dose.
What happens if your Depakote levels are too high?
Increased ammonia levels. If this happens, you may get confused, disoriented, or have difficulty thinking.
What happens if you take Depakote and don’t need it?
A: Do not stop taking Depakote without first talking to your doctor. Stopping Depakote suddenly can cause serious problems, including seizures that do not stop (also known as “status epilepticus”).
Can Depakote help with depression?
Depakote (divalproex sodium) and Abilify (aripiprazole) are used to treat manic episodes associated with bipolar disorder. Depakote is also used to treat epilepsy and migraine headaches. Abilify is also used to treat schizophrenia, depression, autistic disorder, and some irritable behavior disorders.
Can Depakote change your personality?
What are the potential psychological side effects of taking Depakote? Depakote causes suicidal thoughts in a small percentage of people who take the medication. Seek medical help if you experience these thoughts or other changes in your behavior or mood.
How long does it take Depakote to work for mood?
Tablets take 4 hours to reach a peak, Depakote sprinkles take just over three. Food can delay the absorption of Depakote (food has a more significant effect on the tablets compared with the sprinkles). It may take several weeks of regular dosing before an effect on mood or seizure frequency is reported.
Is Depakote a bad drug?
Side effects of Depakote and Depakote ER can be serious and sometimes deadly. Depakote side effects include liver damage, life-threatening pancreatitis, suicidal thoughts, and blood and metabolic disorders. When women take Depakote during pregnancy, their children have a higher risk of birth defects.