Comparative Pharmacology
Head-to-head clinical analysis: DEPAKOTE versus DEPAKOTE CP.
Peer-Reviewed Evidence
Head-to-head clinical analysis: DEPAKOTE versus DEPAKOTE CP.
DEPAKOTE vs DEPAKOTE CP
Comparing the clinical profiles, pharmacokinetic behaviors, and safety indices of these two therapeutic agents.
Increases GABA levels by inhibiting GABA transaminase and succinic semialdehyde dehydrogenase; also blocks voltage-gated sodium channels and T-type calcium channels.
Valproate increases GABA concentration in the brain by inhibiting GABA transaminase and succinic semialdehyde dehydrogenase. It also blocks voltage-gated sodium channels and T-type calcium channels.
Initial dose 750 mg/day PO in divided doses; increase by 250-500 mg/day every 3-7 days; maintenance dose 1000-2000 mg/day PO divided BID or TID; maximum 60 mg/kg/day.
250-500 mg orally twice daily, titrated by 250 mg/day every 3-7 days; maximum 60 mg/kg/day. Target trough serum concentration: 50-100 mcg/mL.
None Documented
None Documented
Terminal: 9-16 hours (mean 12 h); extended with hepatic dysfunction, co-administered enzyme inhibitors, or in elderly.
Terminal elimination half-life is 9-16 hours (mean ~12 hours) in adults; prolonged in hepatic impairment, elderly, and neonates.
Renal: <3% as unchanged drug; >95% as metabolites (glucuronide conjugates, oxidation products). Biliary/fecal: minor, <5%.
Renal: 30-50% as glucuronide conjugates, 3% as unchanged drug; fecal: minimal; less than 3% excreted in bile.
Category C
Category C
Anticonvulsant
Anticonvulsant