Could STAVZOR work for me? A conversation with your doctor
If you have been newly diagnosed with bipolar disorder, your doctor will recommend medications that can help control your moods and prevent bipolar episodes.
Or you may already be taking a bipolar medication your doctor prescribed.
- Taking bipolar medication as your doctor instructs is the best way to help keep your symptoms under control. Staying on your treatment, even when you feel well, can help keep bipolar disorder under control –– and reduce the chance of your having recurrent, worsening episodes.
Bipolar disorder is a life–long illness, but there is hope.
Bipolar disorder treatment with valproic acid
STAVZOR is a valproic acid (valproate.) Valproate is recommended as a bipolar disorder first-line therapy by the American Psychiatric Association. STAVZOR is approved by the Food and Drug Administration.
- Learn more about how the unique soft gel formulation of STAVZOR may help you start – and stay – on your therapy. STAVZOR is up to 40% smaller than other valproate medications. STAVZOR is a form of valproate that comes in a small, easy-to-swallow soft gel capsule formulation that patients prefer.
Could STAVZOR work for me?
To help determine if STAVZOR could be a treatment option for you, print out this sheet and take it with you to your doctor:
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
