Abbott Laboratories, the maker of Depakote, says valproate has been linked to:
- Liver failure and death from liver failure
- Pancreatitis
- Developmental delay, autism and/or autism spectrum disorder
- Elevated ammonia levels and hypothermia (an unintentional drop in body temperature)
Abbott Laboratories also lists dozens of minor side effects from Depakote, such as nausea, vomiting, extreme drowsiness, dizziness, weakness, abdominal pain, stomach upset and rash.
Antiepileptic or anticonvulsant drugs like Depakote / valproate can also cause an increased risk of suicidal thoughts or actions, the FDA says.