If you have seizures, bipolar disorder, or migraine, you may be interested in learning more about divalproex sodium. It’s a generic prescription drug used to:
- treat certain kinds of seizure in adults and some children with epilepsy
- treat manic or mixed episodes in adults with bipolar disorder
- help prevent migraine episodes in adults
Divalproex sodium comes as delayed-release (DR)* and extended-release (ER)† tablets that you swallow. It also comes in DR capsules that you swallow whole or open and sprinkle onto food. Divalproex sodium can be used as a short-term or long-term treatment.
This article describes divalproex sodium’s side effects. For more information about divalproex sodium, including details about its uses, see this in-depth article.
* DR means the drug’s release is delayed until the tablet or capsule reaches your stomach.
† ER means the drug slowly releases its active ingredient into your system over a period of time. (An active ingredient is what makes a drug work.)
Some people may experience mild to serious side effects during their divalproex sodium treatment. Examples of the drug’s commonly reported side effects include:
Keep reading to learn about other possible mild and serious side effects of divalproex sodium.
* To learn more about this side effect, see the “Divalproex sodium’s side effects explained” section below.
Note: After the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approves a drug, it tracks and reviews side effects of the medication. If you’d like to notify the FDA about a side effect you’ve had with divalproex sodium, visit MedWatch.
Some people may have mild side effects while taking divalproex sodium. Examples include:
- problems with digestion, such as:
- constipation
- diarrhea
- nausea and vomiting
- eye problems, such as:
- double vision
- dizziness
- headache
- increased or decreased appetite
- sleep problems, such as insomnia (trouble sleeping) or sleepiness
- tremor
- weakness
- weight gain or loss
- hair loss*
- mild allergic reaction*†
* To learn more about this side effect, see the “Divalproex sodium’s side effects explained” section below.
† An allergic reaction is possible after using divalproex sodium. This side effect wasn’t reported in studies of divalproex sodium DR tablets, divalproex sodium ER tablets, or divalproex sodium DR capsules. But allergic reaction has been reported since the drug became available for use.
In most cases, these side effects should be temporary. And some may be easily managed. But if you have symptoms that are ongoing or bother you, talk with your doctor or pharmacist. And do not stop taking divalproex sodium unless your doctor recommends it.
Divalproex sodium may cause mild side effects other than those listed above. See the prescribing information on divalproex sodium DR tablets, divalproex sodium ER tablets, and divalproex sodium DR capsules for details.
Serious side effects may occur with divalproex sodium. Possible serious side effects include:
- high blood level of ammonia (a chemical your body makes when it breaks down protein)
- memory loss
- mental health side effects, such as depression and suicidal thoughts
- very low body temperature
- severe skin reaction that can cause problems with other organs, such as your kidneys or heart
- risk of liver problems*
- risk of pancreas problems*
- risk of harm if used during pregnancy†
- low level of platelets‡
- severe allergic reaction‡§
If you develop serious side effects while taking divalproex sodium, call your doctor right away. If the side effects seem life threatening or you think you’re having a medical emergency, immediately call 911 or your local emergency number.
* Divalproex sodium DR tablets, divalproex sodium ER tablets, and divalproex sodium DR capsules have a
† Divalproex sodium DR tablets, divalproex sodium ER tablets, and divalproex sodium DR capsules have a boxed warning for this side effect. This is the most serious warning from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). To learn more, see “Pregnancy and breastfeeding while taking divalproex sodium” in the “Divalproex sodium warnings” section below.
‡ To learn more about this side effect, see the “Divalproex sodium’s side effects explained” section below.
§ An allergic reaction is possible after taking divalproex sodium. This side effect wasn’t reported in studies of divalproex sodium DR tablets, divalproex sodium ER tablets, or divalproex sodium DR capsules. But allergic reaction has been reported since the drug became available for use.
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Divalproex sodium is used to treat certain seizures caused by epilepsy in children ages 10 years and older.
This drug has a
This risk is highest in people with mitochondrial disease and children younger than 2 years of age. (Keep in mind that divalproex sodium isn’t approved for use in children of this age.) For details, see the “Divalproex sodium’s side effects explained” section below.
Get answers to some frequently asked questions about divalproex sodium’s side effects.
How do side effects of divalproex sodium 250-mg and 500-mg strengths compare?
The side effects of divalproex sodium are expected to be the same regardless of the strength you take. But higher doses of the drug can increase your risk of certain side effects. For example, high doses can increase your risk of liver problems* or a low level of platelets.
Divalproex sodium comes in the following forms and strengths:
- delayed-release (DR)† tablets:
- 125 milligrams (mg)
- 250 mg
- 500 mg
- extended-release (ER)‡ tablets:
- 250 mg
- 500 mg
- DR capsules: 125 mg
Your doctor can tell you more about your risk of side effects with divalproex sodium based on the dosage or strength you take.
* Divalproex sodium DR tablets, divalproex sodium ER tablets, and divalproex sodium DR capsules have a
† DR means the drug’s release is delayed until the tablet or capsule reaches your stomach.
‡ ER means the drug slowly releases its active ingredient into your system over a period of time. (An active ingredient is what makes a drug work.)
Do divalproex sodium ER tablets cause different side effects than the drug’s other forms?
No, probably not. The side effects of divalproex sodium ER tablets are thought to be the same as the drug’s other forms. Divalproex sodium also comes in DR tablets and capsules.
For lists of possible side effects, see the “What are the mild side effects of divalproex sodium?” and “What are the serious side effects of divalproex sodium?” sections above.
Learn more about some of the side effects divalproex sodium may cause.
Risk of liver problems
Divalproex sodium has a
Taking this drug may cause liver problems, such as liver failure. People with mitochondrial disease and children younger than 2 years of age* have the highest risk of this side effect.
* Keep in mind that divalproex sodium is approved to treat certain seizures caused by epilepsy in children ages 10 years and older. The drug is not approved for use in children younger than this age.
Liver problems with divalproex sodium are most likely to happen during the first 6 months of treatment. Taking higher doses of the drug may increase your risk of this side effect. In rare cases, liver problems with divalproex sodium may be fatal.
Below are symptoms that may occur with liver damage:
- jaundice (yellowing of your skin or the whites of your eyes)
- nausea or vomiting
- loss of appetite
- dark urine
- pain in the right side of your belly
What might help
Before you start taking divalproex sodium, your doctor may give you tests to check how well your liver is working. And they may repeat these tests from time to time while you’re taking the drug. If you have liver problems before taking divalproex sodium, your doctor can recommend whether the drug is right for you.
If you have symptoms of liver problems while taking this medication, tell your doctor right away. If you’re found to have liver problems, they’ll likely switch you to a different treatment for your condition.
Risk of pancreas problems
Divalproex sodium has a
Symptoms of pancreatitis can include:
- nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
- loss of appetite
- pain in the center of your belly
What might help
If you have symptoms of pancreatitis while taking divalproex sodium, tell your doctor right away. If you’re found to have pancreatitis, they’ll likely switch you to a different treatment for your condition. Your doctor may also prescribe treatment for your pancreatitis.
Hair loss
Hair loss was a less common side effect in studies of divalproex sodium DR tablets, divalproex sodium ER tablets, and divalproex sodium DR capsules.
In most cases, hair loss with divalproex sodium is expected to be temporary. Hair will usually grow back after you’ve stopped taking this drug.
What might help
If you have bothersome hair loss from divalproex sodium, talk with your doctor. They can suggest ways to help manage this side effect.
For example, they may suggest that you avoid styling tools that are harsh on your hair. This might include not using a curling iron or the high heat setting on a hair dryer. For more tips on how to manage hair loss related to medications, see this article.
Low level of platelets
Divalproex sodium may cause a low level of platelets in your blood. This was one of the most common side effects in studies of divalproex sodium DR tablets, divalproex sodium ER tablets, and divalproex sodium DR capsules.
Platelets are a type of red blood cell that help your blood clot. With low platelet levels, you may bruise or bleed more easily than usual.
Your risk of this side effect may be greater at higher doses of divalproex sodium.
What might help
Before starting treatment with divalproex sodium, your doctor may check your platelet level with a blood test. And they may keep checking it from time to time throughout your treatment. If you’re found to have a low platelet level, your doctor may lower your dosage or switch you to a different medication.
Allergic reaction
Like most drugs, divalproex sodium can cause an allergic reaction in some people. This side effect wasn’t reported in studies of divalproex sodium DR tablets, divalproex sodium ER tablets, or divalproex sodium DR capsules. But allergic reaction has been reported since the drug became available for use.
Symptoms can be mild to serious and can include:
What might help
If you have mild symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as a mild rash, call your doctor right away. They may suggest a treatment to manage your symptoms. Examples include:
- an antihistamine you swallow, such as Benadryl (diphenhydramine)
- a product you apply to your skin, such as hydrocortisone cream
If your doctor confirms you’ve had a mild allergic reaction to divalproex sodium, they’ll decide whether you should continue using it.
If you have symptoms of a severe allergic reaction, such as swelling or trouble breathing, call 911 or your local emergency number right away. These symptoms could be life threatening and require immediate medical care.
If your doctor confirms you’ve had a serious allergic reaction to divalproex sodium, they may have you switch to a different treatment.
Keeping track of side effectsDuring your divalproex sodium treatment, consider taking notes on any side effects you’re having. You can then share this information with your doctor. This is especially helpful when you first start taking new drugs or using a combination of treatments.
Your side effect notes can include things such as:
- what dose of the drug you were taking when you had the side effect
- how soon you had the side effect after starting that dose
- what your symptoms were
- how it affected your daily activities
- what other medications you were taking
- any other information you feel is important
Keeping notes and sharing them with your doctor will help them learn more about how divalproex sodium affects you. They can then use this information to adjust your treatment plan if needed.
Below are several warnings for divalproex sodium.
Boxed warnings
Divalproex sodium has
Risk of liver problems. Taking divalproex sodium may cause liver problems, such as liver failure. This risk is highest in people with mitochondrial disease and children younger than 2 years of age. (Keep in mind that this drug isn’t approved for use in children of this age.) In rare cases, liver problems with divalproex sodium may be fatal.
Risk of pancreas problems. Divalproex sodium may cause pancreatitis (swelling of the pancreas). In rare cases, this side effect may cause severe or fatal bleeding.
Risk of harm if used during pregnancy. Divalproex may cause problems with fetal development (commonly known as birth defects) if the drug is used during pregnancy. It may also lead to other problems with development in children born to people who take divalproex sodium while pregnant.
To learn more about liver or pancreas problems, see the “Divalproex sodium’s side effects explained” section above. For more information about the risks if the drug is used while pregnant, see “Pregnancy and breastfeeding while taking divalproex sodium” below.
Other warnings
Divalproex sodium may not be right for you if you have certain medical conditions. (This is known as a drug-condition interaction.) Other factors may also affect whether this drug is a good treatment option for you. Talk with your doctor about your health history before starting divalproex sodium. Factors to consider include those described below.
Urea cycle disorder. Before taking divalproex sodium, tell your doctor if you have a urea cycle disorder. With this condition, your body has trouble getting rid of urea. Urea is a chemical made from ammonia, which your body makes when it breaks down protein.
This drug can cause a high blood level of ammonia. And your risk of this side effect is greater if you have urea cycle disorder. If you have this condition, your doctor will likely prescribe a treatment other than divalproex sodium for you.
Digestive conditions. Before starting treatment with divalproex sodium, tell your doctor if you have any digestive conditions. Examples include having had an ileostomy or colostomy in the past.
If you have a digestive condition, your body may not break down divalproex sodium tablets or capsules. If this happens, you may notice pieces of the drug’s tablet or capsule in your stool. And this could mean your body isn’t getting enough divalproex sodium to treat your condition.
If you have a digestive condition, your doctor may prescribe a drug other than divalproex sodium for you.
Allergic reaction. If you’ve had an allergic reaction to divalproex sodium or any of its ingredients, your doctor will likely not prescribe it for you. Ask them about other medications that might be better options.
Mitochondrial disease. If you have mitochondrial disease, tell your doctor before starting divalproex sodium treatment. This condition can increase your risk of liver problems with the drug. If you have mitochondrial disease, your doctor may prescribe a drug other than divalproex sodium for you.
Alcohol and divalproex sodium
It may not be safe to drink alcohol during your divalproex sodium treatment. This is because both divalproex sodium and alcohol can cause sleepiness and dizziness. Drinking alcohol while taking this drug may worsen these side effects.
If you drink alcohol, talk with your doctor before taking divalproex sodium. They can tell you about the risks of consuming alcohol with this medication.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding while taking divalproex sodium
Below is information about using divalproex sodium during pregnancy and while breastfeeding.
Risk of harm if used during pregnancy
Divalproex sodium has a
Studies* have shown that divalproex sodium may cause problems with fetal development (commonly known as birth defects) if it’s used during pregnancy. Examples include problems with the brain and spinal cord, such as spina bifida.
Divalproex sodium may also lead to other problems with development in children born to people who take this drug during pregnancy. Examples include autism spectrum disorder and lower IQ scores.
Due to these risks, your doctor will likely recommend that you use effective birth control while you’re taking divalproex sodium. If you become pregnant while taking this drug, tell your doctor right away. They can discuss with you the risks and benefits of continuing treatment during pregnancy.
* See the prescribing information for divalproex sodium DR tablets, divalproex sodium ER tablets, and divalproex sodium DR capsules for details.
Divalproex sodium pregnancy registry
If you become pregnant while taking divalproex sodium, you can participate in the North American Antiepileptic Drug Pregnancy Registry. This registry helps collect information about how seizure drugs, such as divalproex sodium, may affect pregnancy. To learn more, talk with your doctor. You can also call 888-233-2334 or visit the registry website.
Divalproex sodium and breastfeeding
It may not be safe to breastfeed while taking divalproex sodium. This drug passes into breast milk and could cause side effects in a child who is breastfed. Examples include liver problems and unusual bleeding or bruising.
Before starting divalproex sodium, tell your doctor if you’re breastfeeding or planning to do so. They may discuss other healthy ways to feed your child or suggest other treatment options with you.
Both mild and serious side effects are possible with divalproex sodium. If you have any questions about side effects this drug can cause, talk with your doctor.
Here are some questions you may want to ask to help you decide whether divalproex sodium is right for you:
- If I have side effects from divalproex sodium, will I need to stop taking it?
- Will any other medications I take increase my risk of side effects from this drug?
- How should I manage side effects I may have from this drug?
You can also ask your doctor about Depakote or Depakote ER, which are the brand-name versions of divalproex sodium. A generic drug and its brand-name version are expected to have the same side effects because they contain the same active ingredient. (An active ingredient is what makes a drug work.)
To learn more about divalproex sodium or Depakote, see these articles:
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Disclaimer: Healthline has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.