The correctional system provides an opportunity to improve the functionality and quality of life of inmates who are mentally ill. Patients’ ability to tolerate medications influences their adherence to a medication regimen. Rates of nonadherence among bipolar patients are unacceptably high. In an effort to reduce treatment costs, many correctional programs are considering eliminating newer psychotropic medicines on their formularies in favor of cheaper generic medications. We retrospectively identified all patients incarcerated in the Muscogee County Jail who were treated with valproic acid, Depakote DR, or the recently available extended release form of divalproic sodium, Depakote ER. The purpose was to discover if patient compliance improved when switched from valproic acid or Depakote DR to the once-a-day dose of Depakote ER.
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