Generic Depakote for Epilepsy Approved

Author: Heather Hajek

Suffering from epilepsy and want to save money on your prescriptions? Ask for the generic version. Recently the FDA approved generic versions of Depakote delayed-release, a product offered by Abbott Laboratories' that treats epilepsy and is also used to treat migraines and bipolar disorder. The generic is called divalproex sodium.

In 2007, Abbott's Depakote sales soared to $1.5 billion worldwide, the company said. Not only does Abbott now have competition for its delayed release formula, but as of earlier this month they may now have some competition for its extended-release version as well. The company recently settled litigation with Mylan Inc who plans to launch a generic for Depakote extended-release some time before the first of next year.

There have been several companies approved to market the various generic forms of Depakote, including Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd., Novartis AG, Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd, Dr. Reddy's Laboratories Ltd., Lupin Limited, Genpharm Inc, Nu-Pharm Inc, and Upsher-Smith Laboratories.

Generic drugs continue to grow in demand and in the number of generic drugs available. This is great for consumers and insurers alike, especially with the downturn in the economy and as many families continue to try and cut costs. Recently Wal-Mart stores, Sam's Club, and Target started programs in some of their pharmacies offering dozens of generic drugs for $4. Kmart has already been offering generic 90-day supplies for $15.

The new generic for Depakote, divalproex sodium, will have the same warnings as Depakote. Some of the warnings have gained the "black box" warning from the FDA, which is their harshest warning because the drug has the potential to cause liver and pancreatic damage that could lead to death. The black box warnings also points out the possibilities of birth defects, such as neural tube defects. Before taking any new drug, make sure that your doctor is aware of your entire medical history. Certain medical conditions can be compounded by this drug and it is not recommended to take this drug for seizures with any other drug as treatment for epilepsy. If anyone taking Depakote or the generic form experiences nausea, vomiting, stomach pains, or loss of appetite, low fever, dark urine, clay-colored stools, or yellowing under the eyes, they should seek emergency medical attention immediately. Signs of an allergic reaction to the drugs may be hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat and one must seek medical attention immediately.

Many may ask if the generic drugs are the same as the original. They are not exact, and you may want to talk with your doctor before choosing the generic formula. In a news release by the FDA, Gary J. Buehler, RPh, director of the FDA's Office of Generic Drugs stated "Generic drugs undergo a rigorous scientific review to ensure that they will provide the patient the same amount of high-quality, safe, and effective drug as the name-brand product."