Depakote (divalproex sodium) and Topamax (topiramate) are anticonvulsants used to treat epilepsy and migraine headaches. Depakote is also used to treat manic episodes associated with bipolar disorder.
Is Depakote good for migraine headaches?
However, divalproex sodium (Depakote), which is approved by the FDA as a migraine prophylactic agent, is the first in the anticonvulsant class of medication for migraine headache and has expanded the options in headache treatment.
How long does it take for Depakote to help with migraines?
As with most preventives, Depakote needs four to six weeks to become effective. It is FDA-approved for migraine prevention.
What is the strongest medication for migraines?
Triptans. Prescription drugs such as sumatriptan (Imitrex, Tosymra) and rizatriptan (Maxalt, Maxalt-MLT) are used to treat migraine because they block pain pathways in the brain. Taken as pills, shots or nasal sprays, they can relieve many symptoms of migraine.
Does Depakote help cluster headaches?
Sodium Valproate (Depakote): This medication is usually used for seizures, but has also been very helpful for headache prevention. Depakote has proven useful for migraine, chronic daily, and cluster headache. Valproate needs to be monitored, but it has proven to be a safe and effective medication.
How much Depakote should I take for migraines?
The initial dose is 250 mg twice per day. This is effective for many patients. However, higher doses of Depakote® are commonly used. In migraine prevention, doses of 750 to 1500 mg per day are optimal for many patients.
How quickly can Depakote work?
How long does it take for divalproex (Depakote) to start working? While it only takes a few hours for your body to fully absorb divalproex (Depakote), it can take a few weeks before you start to notice a difference in your symptoms. If you’re not seeing any improvement after 6 to 8 weeks, let your provider know.
Is Depakote a good drug?
Depakote has an average rating of 6.2 out of 10 from a total of 292 ratings on Drugs.com. 47% of reviewers reported a positive effect, while 29% reported a negative effect.
Is Topamax good for migraines?
Several randomized, controlled trials have shown that Topamax reduces the frequency, intensity, and duration of migraine attacks in adults. Topamax has been found to be a cost-effective treatment that helps improve the quality of life for people who live with migraine.
Do you gain weight on Depakote?
Weight changes
Depakote often causes an increased appetite, which can lead to weight gain. People taking it to treat migraine headaches may have decreased serotonin levels, which can also lead to cravings and overeating. Depakote can also cause drowsiness, which may decrease activity level.
What is the fastest way to get rid of a migraine?
In this Article
- Try a Cold Pack.
- Use a Heating Pad or Hot Compress.
- Ease Pressure on Your Scalp or Head.
- Dim the Lights.
- Try Not to Chew.
- Hydrate.
- Get Some Caffeine.
- Practice Relaxation.
Which painkiller is best for migraine?
Which OTC drugs are commonly recommended to treat migraine headaches? NSAIDS — or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs — are the first line of treatment when it comes to migraines. These include ibuprofen, which is known by the brand names of Motrin and Advil; and naproxen, which is known as Aleve.
What is the migraine cocktail?
A migraine cocktail is a combination of medications that’s given to treat severe migraine symptoms. The exact medications used in a migraine cocktail can vary, but it typically includes triptans, NSAIDs, and antiemetics. A migraine cocktail is also available in OTC medication.
How do you break a migraine cycle?
At the first sign of a migraine, take a break and step away from whatever you’re doing if possible.
- Turn off the lights. Migraines often increase sensitivity to light and sound.
- Try temperature therapy. Apply hot or cold compresses to your head or neck.
- Drink a caffeinated beverage.
What drugs interact with Depakote?
Some products that may interact with this drug include: certain antidepressants (such as amitriptyline, nortriptyline, phenelzine), certain antibiotics (carbapenems such as imipenem), irinotecan, mefloquine, orlistat, other medications for seizure (such as ethosuximide, lamotrigine, phenytoin, rufinamide, topiramate),
How much topiramate should I take for migraines?
The recommended dosage of topiramate for migraine prevention is 50 mg twice per day. Patients should start with 25 mg once per day, then increase by 25 mg per week up to the recommended dosage.
Does gabapentin help migraines?
Conclusion: Gabapentin is an effective prophylactic agent for patients with migraine. In addition, gabapentin appears generally well tolerated with mild to moderate somnolence and dizziness.
Is Depakote available as an injection?
Depacon (valproate sodium) Injection is an antiepileptic used to treat various types of seizure disorders. Depacon is available in generic form.
Epilepsy.
| Body System/Reaction | Depakote (n = 77) % | Placebo (n = 70) % |
|---|---|---|
| Somnolence | 27 | 11 |
| Tremor | 25 | 6 |
| Dizziness | 25 | 13 |
| Diplopia | 16 | 9 |
Does Depakote help with anxiety?
Valproic Acid (Depakote)
Valproic acid is an epilepsy medication that is now used for the treatment of panic attacks as well as other psychiatric problems.
Is Depakote sedating?
A: Common side effects experienced with Depakote include drowsiness, nausea, abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting, low platelet count, tremors, tiredness, and hair loss. The side effects may be mild to moderate, but they may also be signs of a more serious condition.
How do you feel on Depakote?
Common side effects
- Nausea or vomiting.
- Headache.
- Drowsiness or dizziness.
- Tremor.
- Muscle weakness.
- Insomnia.
- Hair loss.
- Weight gain.
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