Notice: Images are for illustration only and may not reflect the exact product you receive. Brand-name medications may look different depending on their country of origin—Canadian versions, for example, often include a "PR" symbol on the packaging. Rest assured, the medication, dosage, and active ingredients will be exactly as prescribed. Canada Pharmacy Store is committed to your health and safety, and we work only with licensed pharmacies to ensure you receive trusted, high-quality medication every time.
Valproic (Generic)
General Medication Fact Sheet for Valproic
| Field | Information |
|---|---|
| Generic Name | Valproic Acid |
| Brand Name Versions | Depakote, Depakene, Stavzor |
| Boxed/Label Warning | This medication can cause serious damage to your liver, especially in children under two years old. It can also cause birth defects if taken during pregnancy. |
| Purpose | Antiepileptic and mood stabilizer used to treat seizures, bipolar disorder, and migraine headaches. |
| Mechanism of Action | Increases levels of GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) in the brain, an inhibitory neurotransmitter, and may also affect sodium and calcium channels. |
| Dosage Forms | Tablets (delayed-release, extended-release), capsules, syrup |
| Available Strengths | 125mg, 250mg, 500mg |
| Dosage Frequency | Typically two to three times daily for immediate-release forms; once or twice daily for extended-release forms. |
| Common Side Effects | Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, tremor, hair loss, weight gain, dizziness, drowsiness. |
| Serious Side Effects | Liver damage, pancreatitis, hyperammonemia (elevated ammonia levels), blood disorders (e.g., thrombocytopenia), suicidal thoughts, severe allergic reactions. |
| Drug Interactions | Other antiepileptics (e.g., phenytoin, phenobarbital), aspirin, warfarin, certain antidepressants, Carbamazepine, lamotrigine. |
| Important Notes | Do not stop taking this medication abruptly, as it may increase the risk of seizures. Regular blood tests are needed to monitor liver function and blood counts. Women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception. |
| Storage | Store at room temperature away from moisture and light. |
| Missed Dose | Take as soon as you remember unless it is almost time for your next dose. Do not double the dose. |
| Alternatives | Lamotrigine, Topiramate, Carbamazepine, Lithium, Divalproex Sodium |
Valproic Alternatives
| Medication | Mechanism of Action | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Lamotrigine (Lamictal) | Blocks voltage-sensitive sodium channels and inhibits glutamate release. | Used for seizures and bipolar disorder; often preferred for women of childbearing potential. |
| Topiramate (Topamax) | Blocks sodium channels, enhances GABA activity, and antagonizes glutamate receptors. | Used for seizures and migraine prevention; can cause weight loss. |
| Carbamazepine (Tegretol) | Blocks voltage-sensitive sodium channels. | Used for seizures and bipolar disorder; requires regular blood monitoring. |
| Lithium | Modulates neurotransmitter systems. | Primarily used for bipolar disorder; requires regular blood monitoring. |
| Divalproex Sodium (Depakote) | Increases levels of GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) in the brain. | Another form of valproic acid, sometimes better tolerated. |
Valproic Side Effects
| Common Side Effects | Serious Side Effects |
|---|---|
| Nausea | Liver damage |
| Vomiting | Pancreatitis |
| Diarrhea | Hyperammonemia |
| Abdominal pain | Blood disorders (e.g., thrombocytopenia) |
| Tremor | Suicidal thoughts |
| Hair loss | Severe allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling, difficulty breathing) |
| Weight gain | Encephalopathy (brain dysfunction) |
| Dizziness | Toxic epidermal necrolysis (severe skin reaction) |
| Drowsiness | Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS) |
Valproic Dosage Guide
| Condition | Starting Dose | Maintenance Dose | Administration Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seizures | 10-15 mg/kg/day | Individualized based on response; typically 20-60 mg/kg/day | Divided doses; can be taken with or without food, but consistency is recommended. |
| Bipolar Disorder | 250 mg two or three times daily | Individualized based on response; target plasma level typically 50-125 mcg/mL | Divided doses; extended-release formulations may allow once-daily dosing. |
| Migraine Prophylaxis | 250 mg twice daily (delayed-release) | 500 mg twice daily (delayed-release) | Delayed-release formulation is usually preferred; can take several weeks to see benefit. |
Valproic Price With And Without Insurance
| Purchase Context | Estimated Price |
|---|---|
| With Insurance | $10 – $40 |
| Without Insurance (U.S.) | $75 |
| From Canada | $39 |
