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

• 1

  Use Depakote (generic name: divalproex sodium) in tandem with hepatitis C only when your doctor prescribes the medication.

• 2

  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.

• 3

  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.

• 4

  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.