Depacon
Valproate Sodium Solution for injection
What is this medicine?
VALPROATE SODIUM (val PRO ate SO dee um) is used to treat certain types of seizures in patients with epilepsy.
How should I use this medicine?
This medicine is for infusion into a vein. It is given by a health care professional in a hospital or clinic setting. Read More ›
Depacon can be used to treat the following conditions:
- absence seizures
- agitation
- bipolar disorder
- mania
- myoclonic seizures
- partial seizures
- tonic-clonic seizures
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:
allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
changes in vision
changes in the frequency or severity of seizures
redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth
stomach pain or cramps
trembling of hands or arms
unusual bleeding or bruising or pinpoint red spots on the skin
unusual swelling of the arms or legs
unusually weak or tired
worsening of mood, thoughts or actions of suicide or dying
yellowing of the eyes or skin
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
change in menstrual cycle
diarrhea or constipation
loss of bladder control
loss of hair or unusual growth of hair
loss or increase in appetite
weight gain or loss
What may interact with this medicine?
aspirin
barbiturates, like phenobarbital
diazepam
isoniazid
medicines for depression, anxiety, or psychotic disturbances
medicines that treat or prevent blood clots like warfarin
meropenem
other seizure medicines
rifampin
tolbutamide
zidovudine
Where should I keep my medicine?
This drug is given in a hospital or clinic and will not be stored at home.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
blood disease
brain damage or disease
low blood proteins
suicidal thoughts, plans, or attempt; a previous suicide attempt by you or a family member
urea cycle disorder (UCD)
an unusual or allergic reaction to divalproex sodium, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
pregnant or trying to get pregnant
breast-feeding
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
Your condition will be monitored carefully while you are receiving this medicine.
You may get drowsy, dizzy, or have blurred vision. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medicine affects you. To reduce dizzy or fainting spells, do not sit or stand up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. Alcohol can increase drowsiness and dizziness. Avoid alcoholic drinks.
This medicine can cause blood problems. This can mean slow healing and a risk of infection. Problems can arise if you need dental work, and in the day to day care of your teeth. Try to avoid damage to your teeth and gums when you brush or floss your teeth.
This medicine can make you more sensitive to the sun. Keep out of the sun. If you cannot avoid being in the sun, wear protective clothing and use sunscreen. Do not use sun lamps or tanning beds/booths.
The use of this medicine may increase the chance of suicidal thoughts or actions. Pay special attention to how you are responding while on this medicine. Any worsening of mood, or thoughts of suicide or dying should be reported to your health care professional right away.
Who should not take Depacon?
Check with your doctor if you have any of the following:
abrupt discontinuation, acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), breast-feeding, children, coagulopathy, depression, driving or operating machinery, encephalopathy, geriatric, hepatic disease, hepatitis, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, hypoalbuminemia, infants, neonates, organic brain syndrome, pancreatitis, pregnancy, renal disease, renal failure, renal impairment, seizure disorder, seizures, suicidal ideation, thrombocytopenia
Copyright: © 2000-2010 The StayWell Company, 780 Township Line Road, Yardley, PA 19067. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
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