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Divalproex (DV)
Divalproex inhibits histone deacetylase and enhances GABA neurotransmission, leading to increased inhibitory signaling in the central nervous system.
Divalproex inhibits histone deacetylase and enhances GABA neurotransmission, leading to increased inhibitory signaling in the central nervous system. Used for Epilepsy and seizure disorders, Bipolar disorder (acute mania), Migraine prophylaxis.
At a glance
| Generic name | Divalproex (DV) |
|---|---|
| Also known as | Valproate |
| Sponsor | Weill Medical College of Cornell University |
| Drug class | Histone deacetylase inhibitor; anticonvulsant; mood stabilizer |
| Target | Histone deacetylase; GABA metabolism; sodium and calcium channels |
| Modality | Small molecule |
| Therapeutic area | Neurology; Psychiatry |
| Phase | FDA-approved |
Mechanism of action
Divalproex is a compound of sodium valproate and valproic acid that works through multiple mechanisms: it inhibits histone deacetylase enzymes (affecting gene expression), increases GABA synthesis and reduces GABA catabolism (enhancing inhibitory neurotransmission), and may modulate sodium and calcium channels. These combined effects produce anticonvulsant, mood-stabilizing, and neuroprotective properties.
Approved indications
- Epilepsy and seizure disorders
- Bipolar disorder (acute mania)
- Migraine prophylaxis
Common side effects
- Tremor
- Nausea and vomiting
- Sedation/somnolence
- Weight gain
- Alopecia (hair loss)
- Hepatotoxicity
- Pancreatitis
- Thrombocytopenia
Key clinical trials
- Sequential Multiple Assignment Treatment for Bipolar Disorder (PHASE4)
- Treatment of Bipolar Mania in Older Adults (PHASE4)
Primary sources
Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.
| Source | Used for |
|---|---|
| ClinicalTrials.gov | Trial enrolment, design, endpoints, results |
Competitive intelligence
For the full competitive landscape — auto-detected comparators, recent regulatory actions across the set, upcoming PDUFA, patent timeline, sponsor landscape:
- Divalproex (DV) CI brief — competitive landscape report
- Divalproex (DV) updates RSS · CI watch RSS
- Weill Medical College of Cornell University portfolio CI