Last update: June 9, 2016 (confirmed July 20, no new updates)
Some of the generic valproic acid capsules are in shortage according to information provided by pharmaceutical companies on drugshortages.ca.
For information about divalproex sodium (Epival) click here
Current shortages:
- PMS-Valproic Acid Enteric Coated (E.C.) 500mg capsules
Drug Identification number (DIN): 02229628
Estimated resupply date: Pharmascience has limited stock coming in May and August, and is expecting to have full market coverage by September 29, 2016.
Reason: No explanation provided
Resolved shortages:
- Apo-Valproic 250mg capsules
Drug identification number (DIN): 02238048
Estimated resupply date: June 8, 2016
Shortage notice changed to “resolved” on: May 31, 2016
Reason: No explanation provided
Valproic acid products that are presumably available:
As of May 27, 2016 the following valproic acid products are not listed as current shortages on drugshortages.ca and presumably are available:
- Syrup: There are no current shortages of valproic acid syrup posted on drugshortages.ca
- Depakene (BGP Pharma) – there are no current shortages reported of Depakene 250 mg capsules or Depakene syrup
- Apo-Valproic capsules (250 mg) – see resolved shortage notice
What does this mean for people with epilepsy who take valproic acid capsules?
The best source of information about the supply of your medications is your pharmacist.
Shortages of some valproic acid capsules have been reported, but other products are not posted on the drug shortage notification website and should be available.
Click here for answers to frequently asked questions about drug shortages.
If you need information or assistance regarding a drug shortage, please contact Epilepsy Ontario by calling 1-800-463-1119 or email [email protected].
Also, please let us know if a drug shortage is causing problems and if you are unable to get your medication.
Background:
The pharmaceutical companies have not provided an explanation for these shortages on the drug shortage notification website, but they may be due to the severe shortage this year of divalproex sodium (Epival). Many patients who normally take divalproex were swtiched this winter/spring to valporic acid because their regular medication was not avaialble. This has presumably caused a depletion of some of the valproic acid capsules.
The divalproex shortage is beginnning to recover which should in turn help the supply of valporic acid capsules recover as well.
