depakote levels how often
â¢ Most clinicians dose Depakote at bedtime in order to increase compliance and minimize side effects, regardless of the formulation used. â¢ Start at 250-500 mg QHS, gradually increasing to achieve a blood Depakote level of 70-80 mcg/mL, which will often be in the 1000-1250 mg QHS range. â¢ When converting from regular Depakote to Depakote ER, be aware that patients will see about 20% less. valproic acid with the ER formulation, making converting somewhat tricky, given that Depakote ER only. comes in the 500 mg option.