Divalproex (valproate) and Folic acid (folate) interaction

Divalproex (valproate) and Folic acid (folate): the Divalproex (valproate) prescribing label describe an interaction that usually calls for monitoring, a dose change, or spacing the doses.

Moderate

Usually manageable with monitoring or a dose change. Tell your pharmacist you take both.

What the FDA labels say

From the Divalproex (valproate) (Depakote ER) label · effective 2026-03-31

Moderate

Evidence suggests that folic acid supplementation prior to conception and during the first trimester of pregnancy decreases the risk for congenital neural tube defects in the general population [see Use in Specific Populations ( 8.1 )] .

Warnings and precautionsnames Folic acid (folate)View label on DailyMed
Moderate

It is not known whether the risk of neural tube defects or decreased IQ in the offspring of women receiving valproate is reduced by folic acid supplementation.

Warnings and precautionsnames Folic acid (folate)View label on DailyMed
Minor

Dietary folic acid supplementation both prior to conception and during pregnancy should be routinely recommended for women of childbearing potential using valproate.

Warnings and precautionsnames Folic acid (folate)View label on DailyMed

Curated guidance for Folic acid (folate)

Moderate

These antiepileptic drugs lower folate levels, and folic acid supplements can in turn lower blood levels of the drug.

Taking more than these two? Interactions stack. Check your whole list at once; it stays in your browser.

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Not medical advice. Interaction Checker quotes FDA label text and NIH fact sheets. Whether an interaction matters for you depends on doses, timing, kidney and liver function, and other conditions. Confirm with a pharmacist or prescriber.