Stavzor
Valproic Acid Oral capsule
What is this medicine?
VALPROIC ACID (val PROE ik AS id) is used to prevent seizures caused by some forms of epilepsy. It is also used to treat bipolar mania and to prevent migraine headaches.
How should I use this medicine?
Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Do not cut, crush or chew this medicine. Take this medicine with food if it upsets your stomach. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take it more often than directed. Read More ›
Stavzor can be used to treat the following conditions:
- absence seizures
- agitation
- bipolar disorder
- mania
- migraine prophylaxis
- myoclonic seizures
- nystagmus
- partial seizures
- singultus (hiccups)
- 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 the frequency or severity of seizures
double vision or uncontrollable eye movements
redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth
stomach pain or cramps
suicidal thoughts or other mood changes
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
yellowing of skin or eyes
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 and aspirin-like medicines
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
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
Where should I keep my medicine?
Keep out of reach of children.
Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Keep container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
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 valproic acid, divalproex, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
pregnant or trying to get pregnant
breast-feeding
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. If you are taking this medicine to treat epilepsy (seizures), do not stop taking it suddenly. This increases the risk of seizures. Wear a medical identification bracelet or chain to say you have epilepsy or seizures, and carry a card that lists all your medicines.
You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medicine affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells. Alcohol may interfere with the effect of this medicine. Avoid alcoholic drinks.
This medicine can slow healing and increase the 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 feeling while on this medicine. Any worsening of mood, or thoughts of suicide or dying should be reported to your health care professional right away.
Women who become pregnant while using this medicine may enroll in the North American Antiepileptic Drug Pregnancy Registry by calling 1-888-233-2334. This registry collects information about the safety of antiepileptic drug use during pregnancy.
Who should not take Stavzor?
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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