Divalproex ER

Divalproex ER is a medication that is prescribed for the prevention of migraine headaches and for the treatment of epilepsy and manic depression. It can help improve bipolar symptoms, prevent migraines from occurring, and decrease seizure frequency. Divalproex ER comes as extended-release tablets and is usually taken once a day. Some possible side effects of divalproex ER include nausea or vomiting, drowsiness, and indigestion.

 

What Is Divalproex ER?

Divalproex ER (Depakote ER®) is a prescription medication used to treat the following conditions:
 
  • Mania -- divalproex ER is approved to treat manic or mixed episodes associated with bipolar disorder (manic depression)
     
  • Epilepsy -- divalproex ER is approved to treat complex partial seizures and simple or complex absence seizures
     
  • Migraines -- divalproex ER is approved to help prevent migraine headaches (but does not help treat a headache once it starts).
     
(Click What Is Divalproex ER Used For? for more information on divalproex ER uses, including possible off-label uses.)
 

Who Makes Divalproex ER?

Divalproex ER is made by Abbott Pharmaceuticals.
 

How Does Divalproex ER Work?

Epilepsy is a brain disorder that occurs when there are recurring, brief changes in how the brain's electrical system works. These changes in brain activity can lead to a seizure (see Epilepsy Symptoms).
 
Divalproex ER works by increasing the amount of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. GABA is a natural brain chemical that stops or slows down other brain signals. Increasing GABA helps prevent the abnormal brain signals that lead to a seizure. It is also thought that divalproex ER may also prevent seizures by affecting sodium channels in the brain.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;