For expectant mothers taking Depakote, spina bifida is a risk
for your unborn child If you are expecting a child and are
taking Depakote, there is a serious risk of your child
developing spina bifida. Depakote (Valproic acid,) in the form
of divalproex sodium, is an active ingredient in the anti-
epileptic drug Depakote, and valproic acid has been linked to
serious birth defects. Of all of the potential birth defects,
unborn children are at greatest risk of developing Spina bifida.
Depakote's known side effects include nausea, weight gain, hair
loss and the potential for worsened seizures/ worsened
depression. (1) Among the birth defects associated with valproic
acid drugs (Depakote among them), spina bifida is the ailment
unborn children are most likely to suffer, according to a 2010
study. (2) There is a relationship between Depakote usage in the
first trimester and the fetus' development of spina bifida, and
the FDA has issued a warning to pregnant women and their
healthcare providers informing them of this