Questions and Answers
Which of the following are classifications of Depakote?
The dose range for mood stabilizer is _____ mg/day in divided doses.
750
What therapeutic uses does Depakote have?
Monotherapy or adjunctive therapy for seizures, mood stabilizer, anticonvulsant, manic episodes, prevention of headache, decreased mania, decreased migraines.
What is the pharmacological action of Depakote?
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Which of the following are side effects of Depakote? (Select all that apply)
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What medications increase drug levels when taken with Depakote?
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What should be avoided when taking Depakote?
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What are key nursing interventions for patients taking Depakote?
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What should be monitored in patients taking Depakote?
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How is the effectiveness of Depakote evaluated?
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Study Notes
Drug Classification
- Anticonvulsant and mood stabilizer used in various therapeutic settings.
Dose Range
- Mood Stabilizer: 750 mg/day divided; max 60 mg/kg/day.
- Anticonvulsant: 10-15 mg/kg/day, given in 1 to 4 doses; max 60 mg/kg/day.
Therapeutic Uses
- Effective as monotherapy or adjunctive therapy for seizures.
- Used to stabilize mood and manage manic episodes.
- Helps in preventing headaches and reducing migraine frequency.
Pharmacological Action
- Enhances GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) levels in the central nervous system, contributing to its therapeutic effects.
Side Effects/Adverse Effects
- Possible neurological effects: suicidal thoughts, dizziness, headache, insomnia, visual disturbances.
- Risk of serious conditions: hepatotoxicity, pancreatitis, tremors.
- Other side effects include menstrual changes, nausea/vomiting, weight gain, and ataxia.
Medication/Food Interactions
- Increased levels with drugs like aspirin, carbamazepine, and chlorpromazine.
- Enhanced CNS depression when taken with antihistamines, antidepressants, opioids, MAOIs, or sedatives.
- Warfarin can increase the risk of bleeding when used concurrently.
Nursing Interventions/Client Education
- Advise against alcohol consumption.
- Instruct patients to report suicidal thoughts, worsening depression, anxiety, or aggressive behaviors.
- Urgent consultation needed for symptoms like nausea/vomiting or jaundice.
- Monitor for any skin rashes and teach safe movements to avoid falls.
- Assess patient's gait regularly.
Nursing Administration (Concerns)
- Noteworthy risk for suicidal ideation.
- Heightened bleeding risk when used with warfarin.
- Use cautiously with MAOIs.
- Regular monitoring required for liver function tests.
- Contraindicated for those with hepatic impairment.
- Monitor complete blood count (CBC), platelets, bleeding time, hepatic function, and serum ammonia levels.
- Therapeutic serum levels should be maintained between 50-125.
Evaluation of Medication Effectiveness
- Measured by a decrease in manic episodes among patients diagnosed with bipolar disorder.
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Description
This quiz provides flashcards for the medication Depakote, also known as valproic acid or divalproex sodium. It covers important aspects such as drug classification, dosage ranges, and therapeutic uses. Test your knowledge on this critical medication for seizures and mood stabilization.
