Depakote is the brand name used in the United States for divalproex sodium, a compound of sodium valproate and valproic acid. The same product is known as Epival in Canada. Divalproex sodium dissociates to the valproate ion in the gastrointestinal tract, so its effects are virtually identical to those of other forms of valproate. These include oral sodium valproate (Epilim in the UK and Australia) and valproic acid (Depakene in the U.S. and Canada, Convulex in the UK), as well as an injectable solution of valproate sodium (Depacon).

Depakote has been marketed in the United States since 1983. It is also available in an extended-release form, Depakote ER. Divalproex sodium is not available in generic form.

Forms
Depakote is marketed in the United States by Abbott Laboratories. The name or appearance may differ in other places. These descriptions apply to the U.S. versions:

Tablets

		125-mg (salmon pink)
		250-mg (peach color)
		500-mg (lavender)

Sprinkle capsules

125-mg (white and blue) Capsules oversized for easy opening

How to take and store Depakote
All forms of Depakote can be taken either with food or without food, but many patients find that taking the tablets with food helps to avoid gastrointestinal irritation.

The sprinkle capsule is a way for small children or older people who have trouble swallowing pills to take Depakote. It can be swallowed whole, but it also can be opened and the contents sprinkled onto a teaspoon of soft food such as applesauce, custard, ice cream, oatmeal, pudding, or yogurt. After combining the two, the entire spoonful should be swallowed right away and not chewed. Drinking a glass of water or another fluid may help with swallowing. The drug/food mixture should not be stored for future use.

Depakote tablets should be stored at a temperature below 86°F (30°C). The sprinkle capsules should be stored below 77°F (25°C). Both forms should be kept away from light and dampness.

Missed doses
In general, tell patients that if they forget a dose, they should take it as soon as they remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, they should delay that dose for a few hours, instead of taking two doses very close together.

Patients who often forget doses may benefit from using a special pillbox or watch with an alarm. Switching to a once-a-day extended-release form (in the U.S., Depakote ER) may also help with compliance.