Depakote

Depakote or Divalproex sodium treats the mania of bipolar disorder, prevents attacks of migraine and reduces the frequency of epileptic seizures. For convenience two forms of Depakote exist with confusing names. The delayed release form must be taken two or three times a day while only one dose suffices of the extended release tablet.
Widespread unapproved prescriptions of Depakote treat schizophrenia and impulsivity associated with the borderline personality disorder or dementia. Other off-label use of Depakote includes treatment for aggression, agitation and alcohol dependence. None of these indications are approved by the FDA.
In the intestine Depakote dissolves into the active form valproic acid or valproate. In the body it appears to act on the neurotransmitter GABA. Nausea, tiredness and significant weight gain occur. Pregnant women must not receive Depakote; it regularly leads to birth defects and harms the developing fetal brain. Depakote causes both benign and malignant tumors in laboratory animals.
Overall Depakote provides some benefit but may not be as helpful as desired.