How Depakote ER is Different for Epilepsy Treatment?

What makes Depakote ER a once-daily dose

The "ER" in Depakote ER stands for Extended Release. Depakote ER contains the same ingredients as Depakote (divalproex sodium delayed-release tablets) but it is designed to slowly deliver the right amount of medication over a 24-hour period. That means that Depakote ER only has to be taken once a day. Once-a-day medications are usually convenient to take. If you have been prescribed Depakote ask your doctor if Depakote ER is right for you.

Here's how the Depakote ER delivery system works:

Upon entering the stomach, the film coating dissolves, exposing the hydrophilic polymermatrix tablet

The outer layer of the matrix becomes partially hydrated, forming a gel layer, and drug begins to be released

As fluid enters the tablet, the gel layer increases in thickness, extending the release of drug

Once the outer layer becomes fully hydrated, it erodes and is released from the tablet, while fluid continues to penetrate toward the tablet core

When the hydration process is complete, the last of the drug is absorbed 18 to 24 hours following ingestion

It's important to take your medication on time, as directed by your doctor.

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