divalproex sodium (Depakote)
Meet with a licensed provider online to explore if a mood stabilizer like divalproex sodium (Depakote) may be right for you.
Treatment for:bipolar disorder
585+ insurance plans accepted
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First, choose your state
You’ll get the most accurate information if we know where you’re seeking care, as insurance coverage and self-pay rates vary by state.
Then, pick a plan or self-pay
Below are the insurances we accept in your state. Don’t see yours listed or don’t have insurance? You can still get help through self-pay.
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*This is a common co-pay range for mental health services with an in-network provider; however, you may have a different co-pay or other out-of-pocket costs (such as a deductible), dependent upon your specific plan’s benefits. After confirming that the provider you’d like to work with accepts your plan (over the phone with our support team or on the provider’s profile), please contact your insurance to determine your exact financial responsibility, prior to scheduling.
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Psychiatry/medication management
Reduce or manage symptoms of mental health conditions like anxiety and ADHD, with psychiatric medication.
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Work with a provider who fits your needs — hand-selected by (or for) you.
You can choose therapy in person or online, whichever works best for you; psychiatry is exclusively online.
Receive help quickly — have your first session as soon as this week.
What is a mood stabilizer?
Mood stabilizers are a class of medication that helps support mood stability for mental health conditions like bipolar disorder.
How does a mood stabilizer work?
Mood stabilizers work by regulating the activity of nerve cells in the brain, which can protect against manic or depressive episodes.
How prescribing works
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1
Find a provider who meets your needs
Browse our providers online or call our scheduling team for matching assistance — find a provider who accepts your insurance and meets your needs, whether that’s a clinical specialty or a shared life experience. Choose a date and time that works for you and how you’d prefer to pay (using insurance or self-pay).
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Meet 1:1 to begin treatment
Meet online with your provider to begin treatment. At your first session, share any symptoms or struggles you’re experiencing along with your goals. Together, you and your provider will discuss if medication may be a good next step. Your provider may write you a prescription to be filled at your local pharmacy.
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Attend sessions and start feeling better
Once your treatment plan is created, your provider will regularly check in and encourage feedback to ensure any medication you may be prescribed is effective for you.
FAQs
What is divalproex sodium (Depakote) used for?
Divalproex sodium is an anticonvulsant type of medication used to treat types of seizures, manic phases of bipolar disorder, and migraine headaches.
Does divalproex sodium (Depakote) cause weight gain or loss?
Yes, weight changes are possible due to taking divalproex sodium. Weight gain and loss are common side effects of the medication, as well as changes in appetite (increase or decrease), which could cause shifts in weight. If you're concerned about weight changes while taking divalproex sodium, talk with your provider. They can discuss ways to help you manage a healthy weight during treatment.
Is divalproex sodium (Depakote) a controlled substance?
No, divalproex sodium is not a controlled substance and isn't known to cause addiction. If you have questions about the side effects of divalproex sodium, contact your pharmacist or provider about your concerns.
Does divalproex sodium (Depakote) make you sleepy?
Yes, sleepiness is a common side effect of taking divalproex sodium. You may experience sleepiness when you begin treatment, which may gradually ease. However, until you know how the medication affects you, do not drive or perform tasks that require alertness. Talk with your pharmacist or provider if this side effect is bothersome and doesn't go away.
How long does divalproex sodium (Depakote) stay in your system?
Divalproex sodium has a half-life of 9 to 16 hours. This means it takes this long for around half the drug to leave your system. It typically takes around 5 half-lives for a drug to completely leave your system, so it will likely leave your body fully after 3 or 4 days. However, depending on other health conditions you may have, your age, and other factors, it may take longer in some cases. If you have other questions about how long divalproex sodium can stay in your system, talk with your provider.
How long does it take for divalproex sodium (Depakote) to work?
Divalproex sodium starts to work after you take a dose, and reaches maximum concentration after about 4 hours in the body. However, how long it takes to work for you depends on how you respond to the medication, the severity of your condition, and other individual factors. It may take several weeks of taking the medication before you notice an improvement in your symptoms. Talk with your provider if you have questions about divalproex sodium's effectiveness for you.
What are the side effects of divalproex sodium (Depakote)?
Some common side effects of divalproex sodium include nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, sleepiness, weight changes, hair loss, abdominal pain, depression, constipation, double or blurry vision, problems with coordination, insomnia, sore throat, rash, diarrhea, tremor, and infection, though these are not all the possible side effects. To learn more about all the possible side effects of the medication, talk with your pharmacist or provider.
Can I get a prescription online?
You can meet online with a licensed provider at Thriveworks — if it’s clinically appropriate, they may prescribe you medication for the treatment of a diagnosed mental health condition. Your Thriveworks provider will send your prescription to a local pharmacy to be filled.
Can I use my health insurance for online prescriptions and refills?
Thriveworks accepts most major insurance plans for our online psychiatry and therapy services. Your insurance may also cover the cost of any medication prescribed to you by your Thriveworks provider, which can be filled at a local pharmacy. Check with your insurance provider to confirm your medical and prescription coverage information.
How do I get a prescription at Thriveworks?
Schedule an online appointment with a licensed psychiatric provider at Thriveworks. After meeting with you and discussing your symptoms and treatment plan, your provider may recommend a prescription medication and/or additional services to help you reach your goals.
We offer psychiatry in these select states
Our psychiatry services are done completely online, so you can schedule with any psychiatric provider in your state.
Accepting medication as part of your mental health care plan is an individual and often deeply personal decision. At Thriveworks, we’re here to help you understand your care options and support you on the path toward wellness. We prioritize treating the whole patient, whether through medication, therapy, or a combination of both — guided by clinical best practices and rigorously developed treatment strategies to help clients safely and efficiently resolve their symptoms.
Dr. Scott Gordon Chief Medical Officer
