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Epival
Pronounced:Epp-eh-val
Generic name: Divalproex sodium
Divalproex is converted to valproic acid in your body, however Divalproex is easier on the stomach than valproic acid and this may be one of the reasons that your doctor has chosen this medication.
Epival, in both delayed-release tablet and capsule form, is used to treat certain types of seizures and convulsions. It may be prescribed alone or with other epilepsy medications.
The delayed-release tablets are also used to control the manic episodes--periods of abnormally high spirits and energy--that occur in bipolar disorder (manic depression).
An extended-release form of this drug, Depakote ER, is prescribed to prevent migraine headaches. The delayed-release tablets are also used for this purpose.
EPILEPSY
Dosage for adults and children 10 years of age or older is determined by body weight. The usual recommended starting dose is 10 to 15 milligrams per 2.2 pounds per day, depending on the type of seizure. Your doctor may increase the dose at 1-week intervals by 5 to 10 milligrams per 2.2 pounds per day until your seizures are controlled or the side effects become too severe. The most you should take is 60 milligrams per 2.2 pounds per day. If your total dosage is more than 250 milligrams a day, your doctor will divide it into smaller individual doses.
Older adults usually begin taking this medication at lower dosages, and the dosage is increased more slowly.
MANIC EPISODES
The usual starting dose for those aged 18 and over is 750 milligrams a day, divided into smaller doses. Your doctor will adjust the dose for best results.
MIGRAINE PREVENTION
Delayed-Release Tablets
The usual starting dose for those aged 16 and over is 250 milligrams twice a day. Your doctor will adjust the dose, up to a maximum of 1,000 milligrams a day.
Extended-Release Tablets
The usual starting dose is 500 milligrams once a day for 1 week. The dose may then be increased to 1000 milligrams once a day.
Depakote delayed-release and extended-release tablets work differently, so you cannot substitute one type for the other.
Researchers have not established the safety and effectiveness of Epival for prevention of migraines in children or adults over 65. |
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