Does depakote cause birth defects?

Question

I recently got put back on depakote. I take 1000 mg a day. My doctor told me that it was more dangerous to not be on meds and be pregnant, than to be on depakote and be pregnant. I'm confused. We plan on conceiving in the next year. Help?

Answer 1

I believe the doctor was referring to what could happen to your mental status should you discontinue the drug. There are some situations that it would be dangerous because of what would happen without a Rx like this, if it is something your body requires to maintain a healthy life.

It might be good to check directly with the manufacturer of the pharmaceutical, and even give them a call. They could tell you the exact instance of similar complications, if they exist.

Also, there may be a support group where someone has already gone through this, and could tell you what good results they got.

Answer 2

Divalproex (Depakote) sodium is in the FDA pregnancy category D. This means that using the medication while you are pregnant could cause harm to the unborn baby. Do not use this medication if you are pregnant. Tell your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment. Use an effective form of birth control while you are using this medication.

Divalproex sodium can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

I don't know if I would risk the health of your baby if you are planing on trying to conceive next year. I think personally I would get off the meds if I found out I was pregnant or trying to become pregnant. Good luck!