Brand Name
Epival ECT
Common Name
divalproex
In this drug factsheet:
DIN (Drug Identification Number)| 00596418 | EPIVAL ECT 125MG TABLET |
| 00596426 | EPIVAL ECT 250MG TABLET |
| 00596434 | EPIVAL ECT 500MG TABLET |
How does this medication work? What will it do for me?
Divalproex belongs to the family of medications called anticonvulsants. It is used to manage and control of certain types of seizures. It can be used alone or in combination with other seizure control medications. It is also used for people 18 years of age and older with manic depression (bipolar disorder) to treat manic episodes.
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed in these drug information articles. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.
Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to take this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it.
How should I use this medication?
The recommended adult dose of divalproex to treat seizures, is based on weight and the final dose is determined by control of seizures with minimum of side effects.
When taken to treat manic episodes, the starting dose is 250 mg 3 times daily.
Many things can affect the dose of a medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
When the dose of divalproex increases above 250 mg per day, it should be taken in divided doses.
The tablets should be swallowed whole and can be taken with or without food. This medication should not be stopped suddenly due to the possibility of a rebound major seizure.
It is important to take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue on with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you are not sure what to do after missing a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
Store this medication at room temperature, protect it from light and moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children.
Do not dispose of medications in wastewater (e.g. down the sink or in the toilet) or in household garbage. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medications that are no longer needed or have expired.
What form(s) does this medication come in?
125 mg
Each enteric-coated, salmon-pink tablet contains divalproex sodium equivalent to valproic acid 125 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients: cellulosic polymers, diacetylated monoglycerides, FD&C Red No. 40, povidone, pregelatinized starch (contains cornstarch), silicon dioxide, talc, titanium dioxide, and vanillin. Alcohol-, gluten-, lactose-, paraben-, sucrose-, sulfite- and tartrazine-free.
250 mg
Each enteric-coated, peach-coloured tablet contains divalproex sodium equivalent to valproic acid 250 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients: cellulosic polymers, diacetylated monoglycerides, FD&C Yellow No. 6, povidone, pregelatinized starch (contains cornstarch), silicon dioxide, talc, titanium dioxide, and vanillin. Alcohol-, gluten-, lactose-, paraben-, sucrose-, sulfite- and tartrazine-free.
500 mg
Each enteric-coated, pink-coloured tablet contains divalproex sodium equivalent to valproic acid 500 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients: cellulosic polymers, D&C Red No. 30, diacetylated monoglycerides, FD&C Blue No. 2, povidone, pregelatinized starch (contains cornstarch), silicon dioxide, talc, titanium dioxide, and vanillin. Alcohol-, gluten-, lactose-, paraben-, sucrose-, sulfite- and tartrazine-free.
Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.
Who should NOT take this medication?
Divalproex should not be taken by anyone who:
- is allergic to valproic acid, divalproex, or to any of the ingredients of the medication
- has been diagnosed with a urea cycle disorder
- has liver disease or a significant reduction in liver function
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