Available as crushable tablets, enteric-coated tablets, syrup, liquid and injection all containing the active ingredient sodium valproate, which is a medicine that is used mainly to treat epilepsy. Sodium valproate works by stabilising electrical activity in the brain. Sodium valproate prevents epileptic fits by preventing the excessive electrical activity in the brain. It is thought to achieve this by increasing the activity of a neurotransmitter called GABA in the brain.
Less serious Depakote and Depakote ER side effects include:
Nausea.
Diarrhea.
Vomiting.
Abdominal pain.
Weight gain.
Drowsiness.
Dizziness.
Insomnia
Depakote ER is a valproate and is indicated for the treatment of acute manic or mixed episodes associated with bipolar disorder, with or without psychotic features. A manic episode is a distinct period of abnormally and persistently elevated, expansive, or irritable mood.