How to Use Depakote With the Hepatitis C Condition
Depakote (valproic acid) is a prescription medication manufactured by Abbott Pharmaceuticals that's commonly used to treat depression, seizure disorders and bipolar disorder. Depakote may also be used as a supplementary treatment for hepatitis C patients with depression. However, there are several risks involved in using Depakote with the hepatitis C condition.
Instructions
Use Depakote (generic name: divalproex sodium) in tandem with hepatitis C only when your doctor prescribes the medication.
Be aware that Depakote can impair liver function, and in rare cases has caused life-threatening liver failure. The hepatitis C virus, for which there is no cure, directly attacks the liver.
Talk to your physician about alternate treatments for depression and migraines. Some antidepressants, such as lithium, do not metabolize in the liver and may be an alternative to using Depakote.
Consult with a doctor immediately if you have been taking Depakote and have recently been diagnosed with hepatitis C or any other blood disorder. The physician may decide to switch your antidepressant medications.