Depakene

Valproic Acid

Formulated to manage epilepsy and bipolar disorder, this medication is indicated to support the control of seizures and is utilized to mitigate mood fluctuations.

Category
Neurology
Active ingredient
Valproic Acid
Supply
Rx
Route
Oral use
Form
Capsule, soft
Strengths
250 · 750mg

Depakene details

Alternative names
Epilim; Depakote
Therapeutic class
Antiepileptic
Pharmacological class
Valproate
Contraindications
hepatic impairment; urea cycle disorders; pregnancy; porphyria
Minor side effects
nausea; tremor; dizziness; somnolence
Moderate side effects
weight gain; hair loss; oedema
Dosage forms
Capsule, soft
Administration route
Oral use
Supply category
Prescription only (specially controlled medicine)
Manufacturer
Abbott
Onset Time
1–4 weeks
Duration
24 hours
Storage instructions
Store at room temperature.
Drug interactions
alcohol; phenobarbital; carbamazepine; rifampicin
Age restrictions
Use with caution in children.
Precautions and warnings

monitor liver function; monitor for signs of depression; avoid rapid discontinuation

Serious side effects

hepatotoxicity, requires immediate medical attention; pancreatitis, requires immediate medical attention; thrombocytopenia, requires immediate medical attention

Patient summary

Formulated to manage epilepsy and bipolar disorder, this medication is indicated to support the control of seizures and is utilized to mitigate mood fluctuations.

Mechanism of action

Valproic acid increases the concentration of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain, thereby inhibiting excessive neuronal activity and reducing seizure frequency.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Pregnancy: Contraindicated; high risk of malformations. Breastfeeding: Consult a physician.

Where this medicine is registered

  • Singapore
  • Hong Kong
  • Thailand
  • Malaysia
  • Philippines
  • Indonesia
  • Taiwan
  • South Korea
  • Japan
  • Australia
  • New Zealand
  • UAE
  • South Africa

About Depakene

Depakene contains valproic acid, an active ingredient used for the management of epilepsy, bipolar disorder and migraine prophylaxis. This medication is also sold under brand names such as Epilim and Depakote, supplied as a capsule in strengths of 250mg and 750mg. Manufactured by Abbott, it remains a standard option for patients requiring this specific treatment.

Buying Depakene online

Depakene is registered across 13 markets including South Korea, Japan and the UAE, with availability also in Singapore, Hong Kong and Thailand. Generic valproic acid, much of it made in India, is far more affordable than the original brand. For expats and people based far from a well stocked pharmacy, this medication is one of the most ordered items in our store across the region.