valproate sodium-injection, Depacon

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GENERIC NAME: VALPROATE SODIUM - INJECTION (val-PROE-ate SOE-dee-um)

BRAND NAME(S): Depacon

Warning | Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage | Medical Alert

WARNING: Rarely, serious (sometimes fatal) liver problems have occurred in patients using this drug. Children under 2 years of age who are using this drug are at higher risk for these liver problems, especially if they have a severe seizure disorder with mental retardation; are using more than one anti-seizure drug; have body process (metabolic) problems; or have brain disorders. If this drug is used in these patients, do not use additional anti-seizure drugs. Early signs of liver problems include: loss of seizure control, vomiting, unusual tiredness/weakness, loss of appetite, yellowing eyes or skin, or swelling of the face. Contact your doctor promptly if you develop any of these symptoms. Liver tests should be done before starting, and during the use of this drug. Rarely, severe (sometimes fatal) swelling of the pancreas (pancreatitis) has occurred in some people while taking this drug. Tell your doctor immediately if you develop severe stomach pain, vomiting, and loss of appetite. Rarely, severe (sometimes fatal) encephalopathy (decreased mental status) has occurred during use of this medication. This has occurred in patients with a specific metabolic disorder (urea cycle disorder). Symptoms may include unusual weakness, vomiting, or mental changes. Contact your doctor promptly if you develop any of these symptoms. This drug may cause birth defects (sometimes death). Consult your doctor about the use of this medication during pregnancy.

USES: Valproate sodium is used to help control seizures and treat seizure disorders (complex partial seizures, absence seizures, other seizures). It is usually used when the patient cannot take the oral form of this drug (e.g., valproic acid)

HOW TO USE: Follow all instructions for proper mixing and dilution with the correct IV fluids. If you have questions regarding the use of this medication, consult your pharmacist. Give this medication by vein (IV), usually over 60 minutes in a dextrose (D5W) or saline (NS) solution, as directed by your doctor. You will be switched to an oral form of this drug when you are able to take medication by mouth. The dosage is based on your weight, medical condition, and response to treatment. Use this medication exactly as prescribed. Do not increase your dose, give it more frequently, or use it for a longer period of time than prescribed. Doing so could increase side effects. Also, if used for an extended period of time, do not suddenly stop using this drug. Doing so could cause an increase in seizures. Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. Learn how to store and discard needles and medical supplies safely. Consult your pharmacist.

Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088. Need help identifying pills and medications? Use the pill identifier tool on RxList.