A study to evaluate the use of extended release divalproex

BACKGROUND: Delayed release divalproex has become a mainstay in the treatment of many psychiatric conditions. An extended release preparation with different pharmacokinetics is now available, but its efficacy in psychiatric patients has yet to be established. METHODS: The authors report a retrospective chart review of psychiatric outpatients treated with extended release divalproex. Fourteen charts were identified and reviewed for indications of efficacy and tolerability over a 10-month period. Case reports were provided for four of the patients. RESULTS: Of the 14 patients, only one was unable to tolerate the extended release preparation. No patient was discontinued due to lack of efficacy or for safety reasons. Among the patients remaining on the extended release preparation, only minor side effects were reported. CONCLUSIONS: This chart review suggests that extended release divalproex was well tolerated and efficacious in a population of psychiatric outpatients. Further studies are needed to validate these findings.