How to Use Depakote for Migraines

Depakote, or divalproex sodium, is a medication that was originally used to treat epilepsy. However, it showed promise in preventing migraine headaches, and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved it for that purpose. It is only available with a prescription, and it is a preventative, meaning that it cannot help once a headache starts. However, for many patients, it can be valuable in preventing disabling migraines when it is used properly.

Instructions

• 1

  Visit your doctor for a diagnosis to make sure you are actually having migraine headaches. Certain other conditions can cause similar symptoms. The doctor may be able to make a diagnosis through a routine physical exam if your migraine symptoms are typical or if migraine headaches run in your family. If there is any question, he might order tests like a CT scan or an MRI to rule out other conditions and narrow down the diagnosis.

• 2

  Discuss home remedies with your doctor. Before you try Depakote to treat your migraines, try options with less potential side effects. According to the Mayo Clinic, these might include relaxation exercises, getting plenty of sleep and keeping a diary to identify your migraine triggers so you can avoid them. You may also be able to take an over-the-counter pain reliever.

• 3

  If you are not getting enough relief from other treatments, or if you migraines are frequent, ask your doctor if Depakote might be useful in preventing them. Depakote has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration to prevent the onset of migraines. If they are happening often enough to interfere with your life, preventing them with Depakote might be appropriate.

• 4

  If your doctor prescribes Depakote, follow her instructions for taking it. The Migraine Awareness Groups says she will most likely prescribe a dose of 250 or more, to be taken twice each day.

• 5

  Monitor the effectiveness of the Depakote in preventing your migraine headaches. In clinical trials, it was shown to reduce many patients' migraine headaches by 50 percent or more. You may want to talk to your doctor about trying a different medication if you are not noticing a significant reduction in your migraines.