How Does The Medicine Depakote Work To Prevent Seizures?
Valproic acid for epilepsy Healthwise By Monica Rhodes Examples Brand Name Chemical Name Depakote, Depakote ER Depacon Depakene These medicines usually require several doses each day. A newly approved, once-daily dose of divalproex sodium is also available (Depakote ER). Divalproex sodium and valproic acid are available as capsules and tablets, and valproic acid also has a syrup form. Divalproex sodium also comes in a sprinkle form that is a good choice for children. Valproate sodium is available as a shot (injection). Divalproex sodium irritates the stomach less than valproic acid. How It Works It is not clear how these different types of valproic acid prevent seizures, but they may prevent seizure activity by increasing levels of a certain chemical in the brain. Why It Is Used Valproic acid is a drug of choice for: * Generalized epilepsy of unknown cause that produces more than one type of seizure. * Absence seizures. If a person has absence seizures as well as other types of seizure
