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Stavzor

For family and friends – seizure first aid

If a family member or friend is having a generalized tonic clonic (grand mal) seizure, here's how to help:

  • Stay calm and reassuring. Tell the individual you will stay to help.
  • If in a public space, ask bystanders to provide privacy and leave the area.
  • Let the seizure take its course. Most seizures last only a few minutes.

    Call 911 immediately when a seizure continues for more than 5 minutes without sign of stopping.

  • Keep the individual's airway clear. Make sure there is nothing in the mouth, such as food or chewing gum.
  • If possible, turn the individual onto his or her side.
  • Remove objects nearby that can be harmful during the seizure.
  • Note how long the seizure lasts and provide this information to the individual later.
  • Stay with the individual until the seizure concludes naturally. Then help the individual find a safe place to rest. Follow-up with medical attention if needed.
Bipolar Symptoms Checker
Download My Seizure Plan PDF

Important Safety Information You Should Know about STAVZOR

Liver problems Your doctor should check your liver function before you start taking STAVZOR and at frequent intervals while you're on therapy. If you feel generally ill (malaise), weak, and tired, if your face is swollen and you lose your appetite, and start vomiting, call your doctor immediately.

Pregnancy: Birth defectsWomen who can become pregnant need to know that valproic acid has been associated with birth defects, in particular with spina bifida, a condition in which the baby's spinal canal fails to close. If you are planning to become pregnant, you should discuss the risks of birth defects, along with other possible treatment options, with your doctor. If you do become pregnant while taking STAVZOR, call your doctor immediately.
Read more important safety information about pregnancy.

PancreatitisSome people taking valproate have experienced a serious, life-threatening illness called pancreatitis (inflamed pancreas). If you experience stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, and/or loss of appetite, call your doctor immediately.

Common side effects reported in studies with valproate were nausea, drowsiness, vomiting, and dizziness. These are not all the side effects that may occur. You will find a complete list of side effects in the full Prescribing Information.

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088.


Recent Information about Antiepileptic Medications including STAVZOR® (valproic acid) Delayed Release Capsules for any use

For Patients and Caregivers

All antiepileptic medicines, used for any condition, may increase suicidal thoughts or actions in some patients. Pay close attention to any changes, especially sudden changes, in mood, behaviors, thoughts, or feelings. Keep all follow-up visits with the healthcare provider as scheduled. Call the healthcare provider between visits as needed, especially if you have concerns about symptoms.

Watch for and call the healthcare provider right away to report if you or your family member see the appearance or worsening of symptoms of depression, any unusual changes in mood or behavior, or the appearance of suicidal thoughts, behavior, or thoughts about self-harm. Behaviors of concern should be reported immediately to the healthcare provider.

For Healthcare Professionals

All antiepileptic drugs (AEDs), including STAVZOR, increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior in patients taking these drugs for any indication. Anyone considering prescribing Stavzor or any other AED must balance their risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior with the risk of untreated illness.

Patients, their caregivers, and families should be informed that AEDs increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior and should be advised of the need to be alert for the emergence or worsening of the signs and symptoms of depression, any unusual changes in mood or behavior, or the emergence of suicidal thoughts, behavior or thoughts about self-harm. Behaviors of concern should be reported immediately to healthcare providers.

For medical inquiries specific to Stavzor, please call 1-800-455-8070