FDA label d06b0dec-ffcd-77d5-e053-2995a90a70a9
openFDA label record#
This page contains supplementary openFDA label data. For the canonical label presentation, use the corresponding DailyMed Structured Product Label.
Verified complete openFDA source JSON
- SPL set ID
- a97675ce-cf0d-43f3-9b0a-aee6ccc90913
- SPL ID
- d06b0dec-ffcd-77d5-e053-2995a90a70a9
- Version
- 3
- Effective date
- 2021-11-10
- Source export date
- 2026-10-12
- Source partition
- 8
- Source file
- https://download.open.fda.gov/drug/label/drug-label-0008-of-0014.json.zip
- Source object key
- raw/openfda/drug-label/2026-10-12/fa098e7c5cff0b1ab653ce934059d1f4b90b860bafc0383a1f66223ce1037518/drug-label-0008-of-0014.json.zip
- Source manifest SHA-256
- 7e6b178df8f32cac9a78e0f5d09c588344509b04fe41effb1dde9102e2a45be6
- Import run
- 20261013T011858Z
- Imported at
- 2026-10-13 02:08:11
Harmonized identifier links#
Every typed identifier imported from the complete openFDA harmonization object is paginated here; values are not reduced to a first match.
| Type | Scope | Identifier | Source field |
|---|---|---|---|
| spl id | d06b0dec-ffcd-77d5-e053-2995a90a70a9 | id | |
| spl set id | a97675ce-cf0d-43f3-9b0a-aee6ccc90913 | set_id |
Boxed warning cross-check#
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WARNING: LIFE THREATENING ADVERSE REACTIONS Hepatotoxicity General Population: Hepatic failure resulting in fatalities has occurred in patients receiving valproate and its derivatives. These incidents usually have occurred during the first six months of treatment. Serious or fatal hepatotoxicity may be preceded by non-specific symptoms such as malaise, weakness, lethargy, facial edema, anorexia, and vomiting. In patients with epilepsy, a loss of seizure control may also occur. Patients should be monitored closely for appearance of these symptoms. Serum liver tests should be performed prior to therapy and at frequent intervals thereafter, especially during the first six months [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )] . Children under the age of two years are at a considerably increased risk of developing fatal hepatotoxicity, especially those on multiple anticonvulsants, those with congenital metabolic disorders, those with severe seizure disorders accompanied by mental retardation, and those with organic brain disease. When divalproex sodium extended-release tablets are used in this patient group, it should be used with extreme caution and as a sole agent. The benefits of therapy should be weighed against the risks. The incidence of fatal hepatotoxicity decreases considerably in progressively older patient groups. Patients with Mitochondrial Disease: There is an increased risk of valproate-induced acute liver failure and resultant deaths in patients with hereditary neurometabolic syndromes caused by DNA mutations of the mitochondrial DNA Polymerase γ (POLG) gene (e.g., Alpers Huttenlocher Syndrome). Divalproex sodium extended-release tablets are contraindicated in patients known to have mitochondrial disorders caused by POLG mutations and children under two years of age who are clinically suspected of having a mitochondrial disorder [see Contraindications ( 4 )] . In patients over two years of age who are clinically suspected of having a hereditary mitochondrial disease, divalproex sodium extended-release tablets should only be used after other anticonvulsants have failed. This older group of patients should be closely monitored during treatment with divalproex sodium extended-release tablets for the development of acute liver injury with regular clinical assessments and serum liver testing. POLG mutation screening should be performed in accordance with current clinical practice [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )] . Fetal Risk Valproate can cause major congenital malformations, particularly neural tube defects (e.g., spina bifida). In addition, valproate can cause decreased IQ scores and neurodevelopmental disorders following in utero exposure. Valproate is therefore contraindicated for prophylaxis of migraine headaches in pregnant women and in women of childbearing potential who are not using effective contraception [see Contraindications ( 4 )] . Valproate should not be used to treat women with epilepsy or bipolar disorder who are pregnant or who plan to become pregnant unless other medications have failed to provide adequate symptom control or are otherwise unacceptable. Valproate should not be administered to a woman of childbearing potential unless other medications have failed to provide adequate symptom control or are otherwise unacceptable. In such situations, effective contraception should be used [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 , 5.3 , 5.4 )] . A Medication Guide describing the risks of valproate is available for patients [see Patient Counseling Information ( 17 )] . Pancreatitis Cases of life-threatening pancreatitis have been reported in both children and adults receiving valproate. Some of the cases have been described as hemorrhagic with a rapid progression from initial symptoms to death. Cases have been reported shortly after initial use as well as after several years of use. Patients and guardians should be warned that abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and/or anorexia can be symptoms of pancreatitis that require prompt medical evaluation. If pancreatitis is diagnosed, valproate should ordinarily be discontinued. Alternative treatment for the underlying medical condition should be initiated as clinically indicated [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.5 )] . WARNING: LIFE THREATENING ADVERSE REACTIONS See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning . Hepatotoxicity, including fatalities, usually during the first 6 months of treatment. Children under the age of two years and patients with mitochondrial disorders are at higher risk. Monitor patients closely, and perform serum liver testing prior to therapy and at frequent intervals thereafter (5.1) Fetal Risk, particularly neural tube defects, other major malformations, and decreased IQ (5.2 , 5.3 , 5.4) Pancreatitis, including fatal hemorrhagic cases (5.5)
Warnings cross-check#
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warnings and cautions
5.4 Use in Women of Childbearing Potential Because of the risk to the fetus of decreased IQ, neurodevelopmental disorders, and major congenital malformations (including neural tube defects), which may occur very early in pregnancy, valproate should not be administered to a woman of childbearing potential unless other medications have failed to provide adequate symptom control or are otherwise unacceptable. This is especially important when valproate use is considered for a condition not usually associated with permanent injury or death such as prophylaxis of migraine headaches [see Contraindications ( 4 )] . Women should use effective contraception while using valproate. Women of childbearing potential should be counseled regularly regarding the relative risks and benefits of valproate use during pregnancy. This is especially important for women planning a pregnancy and for girls at the onset of puberty; alternative therapeutic options should be considered for these patients [see Boxed Warning and Use in Specific Populations (8.1) ] . To prevent major seizures, valproate should not be discontinued abruptly, as this can precipitate status epilepticus with resulting maternal and fetal hypoxia and threat to life. Evidence suggests that folic acid supplementation prior to conception and during the first trimester of pregnancy decreases the risk for congenital neural tube defects in the general population. It is not known whether the risk of neural tube defects or decreased IQ in the offspring of women receiving valproate is reduced by folic acid supplementation. Dietary folic acid supplementation both prior to conception and during pregnancy should be routinely recommended for patients using valproate.
warnings and cautions
5.5 Pancreatitis Cases of life-threatening pancreatitis have been reported in both children and adults receiving valproate. Some of the cases have been described as hemorrhagic with rapid progression from initial symptoms to death. Some cases have occurred shortly after initial use as well as after several years of use. The rate based upon the reported cases exceeds that expected in the general population and there have been cases in which pancreatitis recurred after rechallenge with valproate. In clinical trials, there were 2 cases of pancreatitis without alternative etiology in 2,416 patients, representing 1,044 patient-years experience. Patients and guardians should be warned that abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and/or anorexia can be symptoms of pancreatitis that require prompt medical evaluation. If pancreatitis is diagnosed, divalproex sodium extended-release tablets should ordinarily be discontinued. Alternative treatment for the underlying medical condition should be initiated as clinically indicated [see Boxed Warning ] .
warnings and cautions
5.6 Urea Cycle Disorders Divalproex sodium extended-release tablets are contraindicated in patients with known urea cycle disorders (UCD). Hyperammonemic encephalopathy, sometimes fatal, has been reported following initiation of valproate therapy in patients with urea cycle disorders, a group of uncommon genetic abnormalities, particularly ornithine transcarbamylase deficiency. Prior to the initiation of divalproex sodium extended-release tablets therapy, evaluation for UCD should be considered in the following patients: 1) those with a history of unexplained encephalopathy or coma, encephalopathy associated with a protein load, pregnancy-related or postpartum encephalopathy, unexplained mental retardation, or history of elevated plasma ammonia or glutamine; 2) those with cyclical vomiting and lethargy, episodic extreme irritability, ataxia, low BUN, or protein avoidance; 3) those with a family history of UCD or a family history of unexplained infant deaths (particularly males); 4) those with other signs or symptoms of UCD. Patients who develop symptoms of unexplained hyperammonemic encephalopathy while receiving valproate therapy should receive prompt treatment (including discontinuation of valproate therapy) and be evaluated for underlying urea cycle disorders [see Contraindications (4) and Warnings and Precautions (5.10) ] .
warnings and cautions
5.7 Suicidal Behavior and Ideation Antiepileptic drugs (AEDs), including divalproex sodium extended-release tablets, increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior in patients taking these drugs for any indication. Patients treated with any AED for any indication should be monitored for the emergence or worsening of depression, suicidal thoughts or behavior, and/or any unusual changes in mood or behavior. Pooled analyses of 199 placebo-controlled clinical trials (mono- and adjunctive therapy) of 11 different AEDs showed that patients randomized to one of the AEDs had approximately twice the risk (adjusted Relative Risk 1.8, 95% CI:1.2, 2.7) of suicidal thinking or behavior compared to patients randomized to placebo. In these trials, which had a median treatment duration of 12 weeks, the estimated incidence rate of suicidal behavior or ideation among 27,863 AED-treated patients was 0.43%, compared to 0.24% among 16,029 placebo-treated patients, representing an increase of approximately one case of suicidal thinking or behavior for every 530 patients treated. There were four suicides in drug-treated patients in the trials and none in placebo-treated patients, but the number is too small to allow any conclusion about drug effect on suicide. The increased risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior with AEDs was observed as early as one week after starting drug treatment with AEDs and persisted for the duration of treatment assessed. Because most trials included in the analysis did not extend beyond 24 weeks, the risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior beyond 24 weeks could not be assessed. The risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior was generally consistent among drugs in the data analyzed. The finding of increased risk with AEDs of varying mechanisms of action and across a range of indications suggests that the risk applies to all AEDs used for any indication. The risk did not vary substantially by age (5-100 years) in the clinical trials analyzed. Table 2 shows absolute and relative risk by indication for all evaluated AEDs. Table 2. Risk by Indication for Antiepileptic Drugs in the Pooled Analysis Indication Placebo Patients with Events Per 1,000 Patients Drug Patients with Events Per 1,000 Patients Relative Risk: Incidence of Events in Drug Patients/Incidence in Placebo Patients Risk Difference: Additional Drug Patients with Events Per 1,000 Patients Epilepsy 1.0 3.4 3.5 2.4 Psychiatric 5.7 8.5 1.5 2.9 Other 1.0 1.8 1.9 0.9 Total 2.4 4.3 1.8 1.9 The relative risk for suicidal thoughts or behavior was higher in clinical trials for epilepsy than in clinical trials for psychiatric or other conditions, but the absolute risk differences were similar for the epilepsy and psychiatric indications. Anyone considering prescribing divalproex sodium extended-release tablets or any other AED must balance the risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior with the risk of untreated illness. Epilepsy and many other illnesses for which AEDs are prescribed are themselves associated with morbidity and mortality and an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior. Should suicidal thoughts and behavior emerge during treatment, the prescriber needs to consider whether the emergence of these symptoms in any given patient may be related to the illness being treated.
Adverse reactions cross-check#
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adverse reactions
6 ADVERSE REACTIONS The following serious adverse reactions are described below and elsewhere in the labeling: Hepatic failure [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] Birth defects [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] Decreased IQ following in utero exposure [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] Pancreatitis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ] Hyperammonemic encephalopathy [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6 , 5.9 , 5.10) ] Suicidal behavior and ideation [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) ] Bleeding and other hematopoietic disorders [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8) ] Hypothermia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.11) ] Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS)/Multiorgan hypersensitivity reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.12) ] Somnolence in the elderly [see Warnings and Precautions (5.14) ] Because clinical studies are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical studies of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical studies of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. Information on pediatric adverse reactions is presented in section 8. Most common adverse reactions (reported >5%) are abdominal pain, alopecia, amblyopia/blurred vision, amnesia, anorexia, asthenia, ataxia, back pain, bronchitis, constipation, depression, diarrhea, diplopia, dizziness, dyspnea, dyspepsia, ecchymosis, emotional lability, fever, flu syndrome, headache, increased appetite, infection, insomnia, nausea, nervousness, nystagmus, peripheral edema, pharyngitis, rash, rhinitis, somnolence, thinking abnormal, thrombocytopenia, tinnitus, tremor, vomiting, weight gain, weight loss (6.1 , 6.2 , 6.3 ). The safety and tolerability of valproate in pediatric patients were shown to be comparable to those in adults (8.4) . To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact AMTA LABS LIMITED at 1-408-906-9529 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch. 6.1 Mania The incidence of treatment-emergent events has been ascertained based on combined data from two three week placebo-controlled clinical trials of divalproex sodium extended-release tablets in the treatment of manic episodes associated with bipolar disorder. Table 3 summarizes those adverse reactions reported for patients in these trials where the incidence rate in the divalproex sodium extended-release tablets-treated group was greater than 5% and greater than the placebo incidence. Table 3. Adverse Reactions Reported by >5% of Divalproex Sodium Delayed-Release Tablets-Treated Patients During Placebo-Controlled Trials of Acute Mania 1 Adverse Event Divalproex Sodium Extended-Release Tablets (n=338) % Placebo (n=263) % Somnolence 26 14 Dyspepsia 23 11 Nausea 19 13 Vomiting 13 5 Diarrhea 12 8 Dizziness 12 7 Pain 11 10 Abdominal Pain 10 5 Accidental Injury 6 5 Asthenia 6 5 Pharyngitis 6 5 1 The following adverse reactions/event occurred at an equal or greater incidence for placebo than for divalproex sodium extended-release tablets: headache The following additional adverse reactions were reported by greater than 1% of the divalproex sodium extended-release tablets-treated patients in controlled clinical trials: Body as a Whole: Back Pain, Chills, Chills and Fever, Drug Level Increased, Flu Syndrome, Infection, Infection Fungal, Neck Rigidity. Cardiovascular System: Arrhythmia, Hypertension, Hypotension, Postural Hypotension. Digestive System: Constipation, Dry Mouth, Dysphagia, Fecal Incontinence, Flatulence, Gastroenteritis, Glossitis, Gum Hemorrhage, Mouth Ulceration. Hemic and Lymphatic System: Anemia, Bleeding Time Increased, Ecchymosis, Leucopenia. Metabolic and Nutritional Disorders: Hypoproteinemia, Peripheral Edema. Musculoskeletal System: Arthrosis, Myalgia. Nervous System: Abnormal Gait, Agitation, Catatonic Reaction, Dysarthria, Hallucinations, Hypertonia, Hypokinesia, Psychosis, Reflexes Increased, Sleep Disorder, Tardive Dyskinesia, Tremor. Respiratory System: Hiccup, Rhinitis. Skin and Appendages: Discoid Lupus Erythematosus, Erythema Nodosum, Furunculosis, Maculopapular Rash, Pruritus, Rash, Seborrhea, Sweating, Vesiculobullous Rash. Special Senses: Conjunctivitis, Dry Eyes, Eye Disorder, Eye Pain, Photophobia, Taste Perversion. Urogenital System : Cystitis, Urinary Tract Infection, Menstrual Disorder, Vaginitis. 6.2 Epilepsy Based on a placebo-controlled trial of adjunctive therapy for treatment of complex partial seizures, divalproex sodium delayed-release tablets were generally well tolerated with most adverse reactions rated as mild to moderate in severity. Intolerance was the primary reason for discontinuation in the divalproex sodium delayed-release tablets-treated patients (6%), compared to 1% of placebo-treated patients. Table 4 lists treatment-emergent adverse reactions which were reported by ≥5% of divalproex sodium delayed-release tablets-treated patients and for which the incidence was greater than in the placebo group, in the placebo-controlled trial of adjunctive therapy for treatment of complex partial seizures. Since patients were also treated with other antiepilepsy drugs, it is not possible, in most cases, to determine whether the following adverse reactions can be ascribed to divalproex sodium delayed-release tablets alone, or the combination of divalproex sodium delayed-release tablets and other antiepilepsy drugs. Table 4. Adverse Reactions Reported by ≥5% of Patients Treated with Valproate During Placebo-Controlled Trial of Adjunctive Therapy for Complex Partial Seizures Body System/Event Divalproex Sodium Delayed-Release Tablets (N=77) % Placebo (N=70) % Body as a Whole Headache 31 21 Asthenia 27 7 Fever 6 4 Gastrointestinal System Nausea 48 14 Vomiting 27 7 Abdominal Pain 23 6 Diarrhea 13 6 Anorexia 12 0 Dyspepsia 8 4 Constipation 5 1 Nervous System Somnolence 27 11 Tremor 25 6 Dizziness 25 13 Diplopia 16 9 Amblyopia/Blurred Vision 12 9 Ataxia 8 1 Nystagmus 8 1 Emotional Lability 6 4 Thinking Abnormal 6 0 Amnesia 5 1 Respiratory System Flu Syndrome 12 9 Infection 12 6 Bronchitis 5 1 Rhinitis 5 4 Other Alopecia 6 1 Weight Loss 6 0 Table 5 lists treatment-emergent adverse reactions which were reported by ≥5% of patients in the high dose valproate group, and for which the incidence was greater than in the low dose group, in a controlled trial of divalproex sodium delayed-release tablets monotherapy treatment of complex partial seizures. Since patients were being titrated off another antiepilepsy drug during the first portion of the trial, it is not possible, in many cases, to determine whether the following adverse reactions can be ascribed to divalproex sodium delayed-release tablets alone, or the combination of valproate and other antiepilepsy drugs. Table 5. Adverse Reactions Reported by ≥5% of Patients in the High Dose Group in the Controlled Trial of Valproate Monotherapy for Complex Partial Seizures 1 Body System/Event High Dose (n=131) % Low Dose (n=134) % Body as a Whole Asthenia 21 10 Digestive System Nausea 34 26 Diarrhea 23 19 Vomiting 23 15 Abdominal Pain 12 9 Anorexia 11 4 Dyspepsia 11 10 Hemic/Lymphatic System Thrombocytopenia 24 1 Ecchymosis 5 4 Metabolic/Nutritional Weight Gain 9 4 Peripheral Edema 8 3 Nervous System Tremor 57 19 Somnolence 30 18 Dizziness 18 13 Insomnia 15 9 Nervousness 11 7 Amnesia 7 4 Nystagmus 7 1 Depression 5 4 Respiratory System Infection 20 13 Pharyngitis 8 2 Dyspnea 5 1 Skin and Appendages Alopecia 24 13 Special Senses Amblyopia/Blurred Vision 8 4 Tinnitus 7 1 1 Headache was the only adverse event that occurred in ≥5% of patients in the high dose group and at an equal or greater incidence in the low dose group. The following additional adverse reactions were reported by greater than 1% but less than 5% of the 358 patients treated with valproate in the controlled trials of complex partial seizures: Body as a Whole: Back pain, chest pain, malaise. Cardiovascular System: Tachycardia, hypertension, palpitation. Digestive System: Increased appetite, flatulence, hematemesis, eructation, pancreatitis, periodontal abscess. Hemic and Lymphatic System: Petechia. Metabolic and Nutritional Disorders: SGOT increased, SGPT increased. Musculoskeletal System: Myalgia, twitching, arthralgia, leg cramps, myasthenia. Nervous System: Anxiety, confusion, abnormal gait, paresthesia, hypertonia, incoordination, abnormal dreams, personality disorder. Respiratory System: Sinusitis, cough increased, pneumonia, epistaxis. Skin and Appendages: Rash, pruritus, dry skin. Special Senses: Taste perversion, abnormal vision, deafness, otitis media. Urogenital System: Urinary incontinence, vaginitis, dysmenorrhea, amenorrhea, urinary frequency. 6.3 Migraine Based on two placebo-controlled clinical trials and their long term extension, valproate was generally well tolerated with most adverse reactions rated as mild to moderate in severity. Of the 202 patients exposed to valproate in the placebo-controlled trials, 17% discontinued for intolerance. This is compared to a rate of 5% for the 81 placebo patients. Including the long term extension study, the adverse reactions reported as the primary reason for discontinuation by ≥1% of 248 valproate-treated patients were alopecia (6%), nausea and/or vomiting (5%), weight gain (2%), tremor (2%), somnolence (1%), elevated SGOT and/or SGPT (1%), and depression (1%). Table 6 includes those adverse reactions reported for patients in the placebo-controlled trial where the incidence rate in the divalproex sodium extended-release tablets-treated group was greater than 5% and was greater than that for placebo patients. Table 6. Adverse Reactions Reported by >5% of Divalproex Sodium Extended-Release Tablets-Treated Patients During the Migraine Placebo-Controlled Trial with a Greater Incidence than Patients Taking Placebo 1 Body System Event Divalproex Sodium Extended-Release Tablets (n=122) % Placebo (n=115) % Gastrointestinal System Nausea 15 9 Dyspepsia 7 4 Diarrhea 7 3 Vomiting 7 2 Abdominal Pain 7 5 Nervous System Somnolence 7 2 Other Infection 15 14 1 The following adverse reactions occurred in greater than 5% of divalproex sodium extended-release tablets-treated patients and at a greater incidence for placebo than for divalproex sodium extended-release tablets: asthenia and flu syndrome. The following additional adverse reactions were reported by greater than 1% but not more than 5% of divalproex sodium extended-release tablets-treated patients and with a greater incidence than placebo in the placebo-controlled clinical trial for migraine prophylaxis: Body as a Whole: Accidental injury, viral infection. Digestive System: Increased appetite, tooth disorder. Metabolic and Nutritional Disorders: Edema, weight gain. Nervous System: Abnormal gait, dizziness, hypertonia, insomnia, nervousness, tremor, vertigo. Respiratory System: Pharyngitis, rhinitis. Skin and Appendages: Rash. Special Senses: Tinnitus. Table 7 includes those adverse reactions reported for patients in the placebo-controlled trials where the incidence rate in the valproate-treated group was greater than 5% and was greater than that for placebo patients. Table 7. Adverse Reactions Reported by >5% of Valproate-Treated Patients During Migraine Placebo-Controlled Trials with a Greater Incidence than Patients Taking Placebo 1 Body System Reaction Divalproex Sodium Delayed-Release Tablets (n=202) % Placebo (n=81) % Gastrointestinal System Nausea 31 10 Dyspepsia 13 9 Diarrhea 12 7 Vomiting 11 1 Abdominal Pain 9 4 Increased Appetite 6 4 Nervous System Asthenia 20 9 Somnolence 17 5 Dizziness 12 6 Tremor 9 0 Other Weight Gain 8 2 Back Pain 8 6 Alopecia 7 1 1 The following adverse reactions occurred in greater than 5% of divalproex sodium delayed-release tablets-treated patients and at a greater incidence for placebo than for divalproex sodium delayed-release tablets: flu syndrome and pharyngitis. The following additional adverse reactions were reported by greater than 1% but not more than 5% of the 202 valproate-treated patients in the controlled clinical trials: Body as a Whole: Chest pain. Cardiovascular System: Vasodilatation. Digestive System: Constipation, dry mouth, flatulence, and stomatitis. Hemic and Lymphatic System: Ecchymosis. Metabolic and Nutritional Disorders: Peripheral edema. Musculoskeletal System: Leg cramps. Nervous System: Abnormal dreams, confusion, paresthesia, speech disorder, and thinking abnormalities. Respiratory System: Dyspnea, and sinusitis. Skin and Appendages: Pruritus. Urogenital System: Metrorrhagia. 6.4 Postmarketing Experience The following adverse reactions have been identified during post approval use of divalproex sodium delayed-release tablets. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure. Dermatologic: Hair texture changes, hair color changes, photosensitivity, erythema multiforme, toxic epidermal necrolysis, nail and nail bed disorders, and Stevens-Johnson syndrome. Psychiatric: Emotional upset, psychosis, aggression, psychomotor hyperactivity, hostility, disturbance in attention, learning disorder, and behavioral deterioration. Neurologic: Paradoxical convulsion, parkinsonism There have been several reports of acute or subacute cognitive decline and behavioral changes (apathy or irritability) with cerebral pseudoatrophy on imaging associated with valproate therapy; both the cognitive/behavioral changes and cerebral pseudoatrophy reversed partially or fully after valproate discontinuation. There have been reports of acute or subacute encephalopathy in the absence of elevated ammonia levels, elevated valproate levels, or neuroimaging changes. The encephalopathy reversed partially or fully after valproate discontinuation. Musculoskeletal: Fractures, decreased bone mineral density, osteopenia, osteoporosis, and weakness. Hematologic: Relative lymphocytosis, macrocytosis, leukopenia, anemia including macrocytic with or without folate deficiency, bone marrow suppression, pancytopenia, aplastic anemia, agranulocytosis, and acute intermittent porphyria. Endocrine: Irregular menses, secondary amenorrhea, hyperandrogenism, hirsutism, elevated testosterone level, breast enlargement, galactorrhea, parotid gland swelling, polycystic ovary disease, decreased carnitine concentrations, hyponatremia, hyperglycinemia, and inappropriate ADH secretion. There have been rare reports of Fanconi's syndrome occurring chiefly in children. Metabolism and nutrition: Weight gain. Reproductive: Aspermia, azoospermia, decreased sperm count, decreased spermatozoa motility, male infertility, and abnormal spermatozoa morphology. Genitourinary: Enuresis and urinary tract infection. Special Senses: Hearing loss. Other: Allergic reaction, anaphylaxis, developmental delay, bone pain, bradycardia, and cutaneous vasculitis.
adverse reactions
6.1 Mania The incidence of treatment-emergent events has been ascertained based on combined data from two three week placebo-controlled clinical trials of divalproex sodium extended-release tablets in the treatment of manic episodes associated with bipolar disorder. Table 3 summarizes those adverse reactions reported for patients in these trials where the incidence rate in the divalproex sodium extended-release tablets-treated group was greater than 5% and greater than the placebo incidence. Table 3. Adverse Reactions Reported by >5% of Divalproex Sodium Delayed-Release Tablets-Treated Patients During Placebo-Controlled Trials of Acute Mania 1 Adverse Event Divalproex Sodium Extended-Release Tablets (n=338) % Placebo (n=263) % Somnolence 26 14 Dyspepsia 23 11 Nausea 19 13 Vomiting 13 5 Diarrhea 12 8 Dizziness 12 7 Pain 11 10 Abdominal Pain 10 5 Accidental Injury 6 5 Asthenia 6 5 Pharyngitis 6 5 1 The following adverse reactions/event occurred at an equal or greater incidence for placebo than for divalproex sodium extended-release tablets: headache The following additional adverse reactions were reported by greater than 1% of the divalproex sodium extended-release tablets-treated patients in controlled clinical trials: Body as a Whole: Back Pain, Chills, Chills and Fever, Drug Level Increased, Flu Syndrome, Infection, Infection Fungal, Neck Rigidity. Cardiovascular System: Arrhythmia, Hypertension, Hypotension, Postural Hypotension. Digestive System: Constipation, Dry Mouth, Dysphagia, Fecal Incontinence, Flatulence, Gastroenteritis, Glossitis, Gum Hemorrhage, Mouth Ulceration. Hemic and Lymphatic System: Anemia, Bleeding Time Increased, Ecchymosis, Leucopenia. Metabolic and Nutritional Disorders: Hypoproteinemia, Peripheral Edema. Musculoskeletal System: Arthrosis, Myalgia. Nervous System: Abnormal Gait, Agitation, Catatonic Reaction, Dysarthria, Hallucinations, Hypertonia, Hypokinesia, Psychosis, Reflexes Increased, Sleep Disorder, Tardive Dyskinesia, Tremor. Respiratory System: Hiccup, Rhinitis. Skin and Appendages: Discoid Lupus Erythematosus, Erythema Nodosum, Furunculosis, Maculopapular Rash, Pruritus, Rash, Seborrhea, Sweating, Vesiculobullous Rash. Special Senses: Conjunctivitis, Dry Eyes, Eye Disorder, Eye Pain, Photophobia, Taste Perversion. Urogenital System : Cystitis, Urinary Tract Infection, Menstrual Disorder, Vaginitis.
adverse reactions
6.2 Epilepsy Based on a placebo-controlled trial of adjunctive therapy for treatment of complex partial seizures, divalproex sodium delayed-release tablets were generally well tolerated with most adverse reactions rated as mild to moderate in severity. Intolerance was the primary reason for discontinuation in the divalproex sodium delayed-release tablets-treated patients (6%), compared to 1% of placebo-treated patients. Table 4 lists treatment-emergent adverse reactions which were reported by ≥5% of divalproex sodium delayed-release tablets-treated patients and for which the incidence was greater than in the placebo group, in the placebo-controlled trial of adjunctive therapy for treatment of complex partial seizures. Since patients were also treated with other antiepilepsy drugs, it is not possible, in most cases, to determine whether the following adverse reactions can be ascribed to divalproex sodium delayed-release tablets alone, or the combination of divalproex sodium delayed-release tablets and other antiepilepsy drugs. Table 4. Adverse Reactions Reported by ≥5% of Patients Treated with Valproate During Placebo-Controlled Trial of Adjunctive Therapy for Complex Partial Seizures Body System/Event Divalproex Sodium Delayed-Release Tablets (N=77) % Placebo (N=70) % Body as a Whole Headache 31 21 Asthenia 27 7 Fever 6 4 Gastrointestinal System Nausea 48 14 Vomiting 27 7 Abdominal Pain 23 6 Diarrhea 13 6 Anorexia 12 0 Dyspepsia 8 4 Constipation 5 1 Nervous System Somnolence 27 11 Tremor 25 6 Dizziness 25 13 Diplopia 16 9 Amblyopia/Blurred Vision 12 9 Ataxia 8 1 Nystagmus 8 1 Emotional Lability 6 4 Thinking Abnormal 6 0 Amnesia 5 1 Respiratory System Flu Syndrome 12 9 Infection 12 6 Bronchitis 5 1 Rhinitis 5 4 Other Alopecia 6 1 Weight Loss 6 0 Table 5 lists treatment-emergent adverse reactions which were reported by ≥5% of patients in the high dose valproate group, and for which the incidence was greater than in the low dose group, in a controlled trial of divalproex sodium delayed-release tablets monotherapy treatment of complex partial seizures. Since patients were being titrated off another antiepilepsy drug during the first portion of the trial, it is not possible, in many cases, to determine whether the following adverse reactions can be ascribed to divalproex sodium delayed-release tablets alone, or the combination of valproate and other antiepilepsy drugs. Table 5. Adverse Reactions Reported by ≥5% of Patients in the High Dose Group in the Controlled Trial of Valproate Monotherapy for Complex Partial Seizures 1 Body System/Event High Dose (n=131) % Low Dose (n=134) % Body as a Whole Asthenia 21 10 Digestive System Nausea 34 26 Diarrhea 23 19 Vomiting 23 15 Abdominal Pain 12 9 Anorexia 11 4 Dyspepsia 11 10 Hemic/Lymphatic System Thrombocytopenia 24 1 Ecchymosis 5 4 Metabolic/Nutritional Weight Gain 9 4 Peripheral Edema 8 3 Nervous System Tremor 57 19 Somnolence 30 18 Dizziness 18 13 Insomnia 15 9 Nervousness 11 7 Amnesia 7 4 Nystagmus 7 1 Depression 5 4 Respiratory System Infection 20 13 Pharyngitis 8 2 Dyspnea 5 1 Skin and Appendages Alopecia 24 13 Special Senses Amblyopia/Blurred Vision 8 4 Tinnitus 7 1 1 Headache was the only adverse event that occurred in ≥5% of patients in the high dose group and at an equal or greater incidence in the low dose group. The following additional adverse reactions were reported by greater than 1% but less than 5% of the 358 patients treated with valproate in the controlled trials of complex partial seizures: Body as a Whole: Back pain, chest pain, malaise. Cardiovascular System: Tachycardia, hypertension, palpitation. Digestive System: Increased appetite, flatulence, hematemesis, eructation, pancreatitis, periodontal abscess. Hemic and Lymphatic System: Petechia. Metabolic and Nutritional Disorders: SGOT increased, SGPT increased. Musculoskeletal System: Myalgia, twitching, arthralgia, leg cramps, myasthenia. Nervous System: Anxiety, confusion, abnormal gait, paresthesia, hypertonia, incoordination, abnormal dreams, personality disorder. Respiratory System: Sinusitis, cough increased, pneumonia, epistaxis. Skin and Appendages: Rash, pruritus, dry skin. Special Senses: Taste perversion, abnormal vision, deafness, otitis media. Urogenital System: Urinary incontinence, vaginitis, dysmenorrhea, amenorrhea, urinary frequency.
adverse reactions
6.3 Migraine Based on two placebo-controlled clinical trials and their long term extension, valproate was generally well tolerated with most adverse reactions rated as mild to moderate in severity. Of the 202 patients exposed to valproate in the placebo-controlled trials, 17% discontinued for intolerance. This is compared to a rate of 5% for the 81 placebo patients. Including the long term extension study, the adverse reactions reported as the primary reason for discontinuation by ≥1% of 248 valproate-treated patients were alopecia (6%), nausea and/or vomiting (5%), weight gain (2%), tremor (2%), somnolence (1%), elevated SGOT and/or SGPT (1%), and depression (1%). Table 6 includes those adverse reactions reported for patients in the placebo-controlled trial where the incidence rate in the divalproex sodium extended-release tablets-treated group was greater than 5% and was greater than that for placebo patients. Table 6. Adverse Reactions Reported by >5% of Divalproex Sodium Extended-Release Tablets-Treated Patients During the Migraine Placebo-Controlled Trial with a Greater Incidence than Patients Taking Placebo 1 Body System Event Divalproex Sodium Extended-Release Tablets (n=122) % Placebo (n=115) % Gastrointestinal System Nausea 15 9 Dyspepsia 7 4 Diarrhea 7 3 Vomiting 7 2 Abdominal Pain 7 5 Nervous System Somnolence 7 2 Other Infection 15 14 1 The following adverse reactions occurred in greater than 5% of divalproex sodium extended-release tablets-treated patients and at a greater incidence for placebo than for divalproex sodium extended-release tablets: asthenia and flu syndrome. The following additional adverse reactions were reported by greater than 1% but not more than 5% of divalproex sodium extended-release tablets-treated patients and with a greater incidence than placebo in the placebo-controlled clinical trial for migraine prophylaxis: Body as a Whole: Accidental injury, viral infection. Digestive System: Increased appetite, tooth disorder. Metabolic and Nutritional Disorders: Edema, weight gain. Nervous System: Abnormal gait, dizziness, hypertonia, insomnia, nervousness, tremor, vertigo. Respiratory System: Pharyngitis, rhinitis. Skin and Appendages: Rash. Special Senses: Tinnitus. Table 7 includes those adverse reactions reported for patients in the placebo-controlled trials where the incidence rate in the valproate-treated group was greater than 5% and was greater than that for placebo patients. Table 7. Adverse Reactions Reported by >5% of Valproate-Treated Patients During Migraine Placebo-Controlled Trials with a Greater Incidence than Patients Taking Placebo 1 Body System Reaction Divalproex Sodium Delayed-Release Tablets (n=202) % Placebo (n=81) % Gastrointestinal System Nausea 31 10 Dyspepsia 13 9 Diarrhea 12 7 Vomiting 11 1 Abdominal Pain 9 4 Increased Appetite 6 4 Nervous System Asthenia 20 9 Somnolence 17 5 Dizziness 12 6 Tremor 9 0 Other Weight Gain 8 2 Back Pain 8 6 Alopecia 7 1 1 The following adverse reactions occurred in greater than 5% of divalproex sodium delayed-release tablets-treated patients and at a greater incidence for placebo than for divalproex sodium delayed-release tablets: flu syndrome and pharyngitis. The following additional adverse reactions were reported by greater than 1% but not more than 5% of the 202 valproate-treated patients in the controlled clinical trials: Body as a Whole: Chest pain. Cardiovascular System: Vasodilatation. Digestive System: Constipation, dry mouth, flatulence, and stomatitis. Hemic and Lymphatic System: Ecchymosis. Metabolic and Nutritional Disorders: Peripheral edema. Musculoskeletal System: Leg cramps. Nervous System: Abnormal dreams, confusion, paresthesia, speech disorder, and thinking abnormalities. Respiratory System: Dyspnea, and sinusitis. Skin and Appendages: Pruritus. Urogenital System: Metrorrhagia.
Reported adverse events (FAERS/openFDA)#
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