Admin Table of Contents
How long does it take to taper off of Depakote?
The NICE guidelines for bipolar disorder recommend that you gradually reduce your dose of anticonvulsants over at least four weeks. This is to lower your risk of relapse.
What is an alternative to Depakote?
Depakote Alternatives Compared
| Depakote divalproex sodium | Lamictal lamotrigine | Lamotrigine |
|---|---|---|
| Brand Names | ||
| Other divalproex sodium brands include: Depakote ER, Depakote Sprinkles | Other lamotrigine brands include: Lamictal CD, Lamictal ODT, Lamictal XR, Subvenite | Lamictal, Lamictal CD, Lamictal ODT, Lamictal XR, Subvenite |
How do you stop divalproex?
Do not stop using divalproex sodium suddenly, even if you feel fine. Stopping suddenly may cause a serious, life-threatening type of seizure. Follow your doctor’s instructions about tapering your dose. Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
How long does it take for valproic to leave your system?
In healthy adults, it takes 2-3 days, on average, for most of the valproic acid to be gone from the body.
Does Depakote need to be weaned?
It’s important not to discontinue use of the drug before talking with your doctor. Withdrawal symptoms of Depakote can include irritability, anxiety, the return of manic or depressive symptoms, dizziness, and tremors.
Can I cut Depakote in half?
You may take it with food if stomach upset occurs. Do not crush or chew extended-release tablets. Doing so can release all of the drug at once, increasing the risk of side effects. Also, do not split the tablets unless they have a score line and your doctor or pharmacist tells you to do so.
Do you need to wean off Depakote?
Depakote tapering — a gradual, carefully managed reduction — is the safest way to stop taking this mood stabilizer, classed as an antiepileptic medication. Abruptly stopping Depakote is NOT recommended as it can result in seizures that do not stop and other serious withdrawal symptoms.
Is there withdrawal from Depakote?
Withdrawal symptoms of Depakote can include irritability, anxiety, the return of manic or depressive symptoms, dizziness, and tremors.
Can you cut Depakote in half?
Can you stop Depakote cold turkey?
A: Do not stop taking Depakote without first talking to your doctor. Stopping Depakote suddenly can cause serious problems, including seizures that do not stop (also known as “status epilepticus”). Please see Full Prescribing Information with Medication Guide for the complete list of side effects.
Can I stop Depakote cold turkey?
Q: Can I stop taking Depakote at any time? A: Do not stop taking Depakote without first talking to your doctor. Stopping Depakote suddenly can cause serious problems, including seizures that do not stop (also known as “status epilepticus”).
How do I wean off of Depakote?
See a health care provider who can advise you as to how you can best wean yourself off of Depakote using a specific, timed plan. Take the newly prescribed dosages of Depakote daily as per your doctor’s instructions, which will depend on your original dosage and the length of time you have taken the drug.
Typically, little consideration in follow-up care is given as to how to navigate Depakote withdrawal if the drug is no longer useful, or if debilitating Depakote side effects emerge. Physicians often prescribe mood stabilizers, like Depakote, as a lifetime treatment for a fixed diagnosis.
How long should you take Depakote?
Take the newly prescribed dosages of Depakote daily as per your doctor’s instructions, which will depend on your original dosage and the length of time you have taken the drug. You may need to continue taking Depakote for up to three months or more as you gradually taper off your usage.
What is depdepakote used to treat?
Depakote is used in the treatment of seizure disorders, such as epilepsy, often in combination with other medications.