Valproic Acid
Generic Name: Valproic Acid val-PROE-ik AS-id
Drug Class: Anticonvulsants, valproic acid |
| Contents |
Description | This medicine's primary use is to prevent seizures. It is also approved to treat bipolar disorder and for prevention of migraine headaches.
Top of page
|
| General Information |
| This information is for educational purposes only. Not every known side effect, adverse effect, or drug interaction is in this database. If you have questions about your medicines, talk to your healthcare provider. Top of page
|
| Proper use of this medicine |
Usual dosing is once daily. The tablets should be swallowed whole and not crushed or chewed.
Top of page
|
| Missed Dose |
Take your next dose as soon as you remember. If it is time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule. Do not double doses.
Top of page
|
| Storage |
Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed.
Top of page
|
| Possible Side Effects |
- Talk to your doctor if these side effects become severe:
- dizziness
- drowsiness
- nervousness
- hair loss (alopecia)
- Contact your doctor immediately if you experience:
- abdominal cramping, diarrhea
- tremor or muscle spasms
- loss of appetite
- weakness
- tired feeling
- bruising
- changes in menstrual cycle
- change in weight
- swelling of the face
- nausea and vomiting
Top of page
|
| Warnings/Precautions |
- Valproic acid should be used cautiously by patients with liver disease and by the elderly.
- This medication should NOT be abruptly discontinued, due to the possibility of life-threatening seizure activity.
- This medicine can cause dizziness or drowsiness.
- Be cautious when driving or performing other hazardous activities. This medicine can impair judgment.
- Alcoholic beverages can increase the side effects of this medicine and should be avoided.
Top of page
|
| Overdose |
Seek medical attention immediately. U.S. residents can call the national poison hotline at 1-800-222-1222. Canadian residents should call their local poison control center directly.
Top of page
|
| Drug Interactions |
- Tell your doctor about all medications that you are taking including:
Top of page
|
| Pregnancy/Nursing |
This medicine can cause fetal damage during the first trimester and should not be used during pregnancy if other options are available. Small amounts of divalproex have been shown to be excreted in breast milk, so should be used with caution while breastfeeding.
Top of page
|
| More Information |
For more information about this medicine, talk to your healthcare provider.
Top of page
|
;)
