Divalproex Sodium

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Harshi Dhingra, M.D.

Last Reviewed: Apr 26, 2024

Common Questions


Common Questions about Divalproex (Depakote ER)


Is divalproex an antipsychotic drug?

No, divalproex is not an antipsychotic drug. It is an antiepileptic drug that is used to treat certain types of seizures. It is also used to treat mental health conditions such as manic episodes associated with bipolar disorder. Additionally, divalproex is used for migraine prevention.



What’s the difference between divalproex and valproic acid?

Divalproex gets broken down into valproic acid in the body. Your doctor may prescribe divalproex or valproic acid to control seizures. These medications should not be taken together or substituted for one another without your doctor’s approval.



Does divalproex cause weight gain?

Divalproex can cause weight changes, both weight gain and weight loss. High doses are more likely to cause weight gain. Talk to your healthcare provider about healthy lifestyle changes for weight management if weight gain is a concern for you.



Is divalproex safe during pregnancy?

Divalproex is not safe during pregnancy. It can cause serious birth defects in the unborn baby. You should use effective birth control while on this medicine if you are a woman of childbearing age. Tell your doctor immediately if you become pregnant while on divalproex.



Does divalproex work immediately?

Divalproex does not work immediately. It may take 1-2 weeks for you to get the full benefits of this medicine. Tell your doctor if your seizures are not controlled after you have been on this medicine for a couple of weeks. They may adjust your dose.



What is the price of divalproex without insurance?

Without insurance, divalproex can be as high as $260.99, but with a free BuzzRx prescription discount coupon, you could pay as low as $24.96 for the most common version of this medication. Use the BuzzRx drug price look-up tool to find the lowest discounted price, and be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity for the most accurate pricing. While generics tend to have the best savings, you can also use your BuzzRx card and coupons to purchase brand-name versions. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescription drugs—whether you have insurance or not.



What is the price of divalproex with insurance?

Ask your pharmacist or insurance provider for your copay price on divalproex—Copay amounts vary depending on the type of insurance plan you have and if there is a deductible to reach before prescription drug coverage begins.

You could save up to 80% on your prescription medication with a free BuzzRx discount coupon for divalproex. When using the BuzzRx lookup tool to find the price of your medicine, be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity to receive the most accurate discounted pricing. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescriptions—whether you have insurance or not.