This medicine works by increasing the amount of
gamma-aminobutyric acid (
GABA) in the brain. GABA is a natural brain chemical that stops or slows down other brain signals. Increasing GABA helps to prevent the abnormal brain signals that lead to a
seizure. It is thought that Depakote may also prevent seizures by affecting sodium channels in the brain.
Depakote comes in the form of delayed-release "sprinkle capsules" and tablets. The tablets and the beads inside the capsules have a special coating that prevents the drug from dissolving too early in the digestive tract (which can be irritating). The medication is often taken several times a day, depending on the specific condition being treated.
(To learn more about this medication, click Depakote. This article covers topics such as dosing guidelines, warnings, and potential side effects.)
