From the Guidelines
Depakote can cause several serious side effects, including liver problems, pancreatitis, and birth defects, and patients should be closely monitored while taking this medication. According to the most recent and highest quality study available 1, common side effects of Depakote include weight gain, tremor, nausea, alopecia, while more serious side effects include pancreatitis, liver failure, and thrombocytopenia.
Some key points to consider when taking Depakote include:
- The medication can cause weight gain, which may lead to other health issues such as insulin resistance and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) 1
- Depakote can decrease the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives, and patients should discuss alternative birth control methods with their doctor
- Blood tests are typically required to monitor liver function, platelet counts, and medication levels while taking Depakote
- Patients should never stop taking Depakote suddenly without medical supervision, as this can trigger seizures or worsen the condition being treated
It's essential for patients to be aware of these potential side effects and to work closely with their doctor to monitor their condition and adjust their treatment plan as needed. By prioritizing the patient's safety and well-being, healthcare providers can help minimize the risks associated with Depakote and ensure the best possible outcomes for patients taking this medication.
From the FDA Drug Label
The most commonly reported side effects at the initiation of therapy are nausea, vomiting, and indigestion. Diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and constipation have been reported. Both anorexia with some weight loss and increased appetite with weight gain have also been reported CNS Effects: Sedative effects have occurred in patients receiving valproate alone but occur most often in patients receiving combination therapy. Sedation usually abates upon reduction of other antiepileptic medication Tremor (may be dose-related), hallucinations, ataxia, headache, nystagmus, diplopia, asterixis, "spots before eyes", dysarthria, dizziness, confusion, hypesthesia, vertigo, incoordination, and Parkinsonism have been reported with the use of valproate. The common side effects of Valproic Acid Oral Solution, USP include: •nausea •headache •sleepiness •vomiting •weakness •tremor •dizziness •stomach pain •blurry vision •double vision •diarrhea •increased appetite •weight gain •hair loss •loss of appetite •problems with walking or coordination
Common side effects of Depakote (valproate) include:
- Gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
- CNS effects like sedation, tremor, and dizziness
- Other side effects like headache, weakness, and hair loss It is essential to note that the frequency and severity of these side effects may vary depending on the individual patient and the dosage of the medication 2, 2, 2.
From the Research
Depakote Side Effects
- Common side effects of antiepileptic drugs like Depakote include:
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Mental slowing
- Other reported side effects of antiepileptic drugs, including Depakote, are:
- Weight gain
- Metabolic acidosis
- Nephrolithiasis
- Angle closure glaucoma
- Skin rash
- Hepatotoxicity
- Colitis
- Movement and behavioral disorders 3
Comparison with Newer Antiepileptics
- Newer generation antiepileptics have been developed to overcome the shortcomings of older drugs like Depakote, with features such as:
- Better tolerability profiles
- Low interaction potential
- Significantly less enzyme inducing or inhibiting properties 3