USAGE

For patients taking the capsule form of valproic acid: swallow the capsule whole without chewing, crushing, or breaking. This is to prevent irritation of the mouth or throat.

For patients taking the delayed-release capsule form of divalproex: swallow the capsule whole, or sprinkle the contents on a small amount of soft food, such as applesauce or pudding, and swallow without chewing.

For patients taking the delayed-release tablet form of divalproex: swallow the tablet whole without chewing, breaking, or crushing. This is to prevent damage to the special coating that helps lessen irritation of the stomach.

For patients taking the syrup form of valproic acid: the syrup may be mixed with any liquid or added to food for a better taste.

For patients taking the oral dosage forms of valproic acid and divalproex: these medicines may be taken with meals or snacks to reduce stomach upset.

DOSAGE

For seizures, therapy is initiated at 10-15 mg/kg/day and increased by 5-10 mg/kg/day every week to achieve the desired response. Response is usually seen when the blood concentration of valproic acid is 50-100 mcg/mL.

For acute mania due to bipolar disorder, treatment is started at 750 mg per day of divalproex delayed-release tablets in divided doses. The dose should be increased rapidly to achieve the desired effect. The maximum dose is 60 mg/kg/day.

The recommended dose for prevention of migraines is 250 mg twice daily of divalproex delayed-release tablets. The maximum recommended dose is 1000 mg/day. When using divalproex ER tablets, the recommended dose is 500-1000 mg given once daily.

 

FDA Information

Why is this medication prescribed?

Other uses for this medicine

What special precautions should I follow?

What should I do if I forget a dose?

What side effects can this medication cause?

What storage conditions are needed for this medicine?

In case of an emergency/overdose