Epival Oral Solution can be used alone or in combination with other medicines. It may be taken with or without food. Your doctor will decide the correct dose for you. This may increase gradually until your condition is stable. This medicine may take several weeks to work but it is important to take it regularly to get the benefit. Do not stop taking it, even if you feel fine, unless your doctor advises you to. You may have more seizures, or your bipolar disorder may get worse.

Some of the common side effects of this medicine include headache, nausea, dizziness, sleepiness, constipation, diarrhea, double vision, and weight gain among many others. Most side effects wear off, but if they bother you or do not go away, tell your doctor. There may be ways of preventing or reducing these effects. Long-term treatment can cause weakness in your bones (osteoporosis), increasing your risk of breaking a bone.

Before taking this medicine, tell your doctor if you have kidney or liver problems, meningitis or depression, or suicidal thoughts. Also let your healthcare team know about all other medications you are using as some may affect, or be affected by, this medicine, including contraceptive pills. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, the dose may be adjusted. You should avoid driving or riding a bicycle if this medicine makes you drowsy or dizzy. You may need frequent blood tests to check how you are responding to this medicine.