Valproate
"VAL-pro-ate"
Medication type:
Mood stabiliser
Other names:
- Depakote "DEP-a-coat"
What can it be used for?
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If you are 18 or over, the doctor can prescribe valproate semi-sodium for you as a licensed medicine for mania that happens with bipolar disorder.
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If you are under 18, there is less research about its use and effectiveness in young people. Even so, specialists might prescribe it ‘off label’ if it is the best medicine for you.
Ways to take and what's in it?
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Valproate semi-sodium is available as tablets (250mg and 500mg strengths)
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Sodium valproate, if used, is also available as crushable tablets (100mg strength), enteric coated tablets (200mg and 500mg) controlled release tablets (200mg, 300mg and 500mg strengths), liquid, syrup and granules!
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Valproate tablets contain colours that might cause an allergic reaction if you are allergic to aspirin