A patient recently diagnosed with epilepsy is prescribed valproic acid (Depakene). The nurse should instruct the patient on which common side effect associated with this medication?

Explanation

•Common side effects of valproic acid (Depakene) include nausea/vomiting, alopecia, tremors, vertigo, somnolence, and thrombocytopenia.

•Less common side effects include weight gain, edema, acne, hyperammonemia, hallucinations, and encephalopathy.

•Valproic acid (Depakene) is used in the treatment of seizures and bipolar disorder.

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