Can you take Benzethonium chloride / lidocaine topical with Divalproex sodium?
1 drug interaction and 25 additional warnings found for the following 2 drugs:
- benzethonium chloride/lidocaine topical
- divalproex sodium
Drug interactions
Moderate drug interactions
Moderate:
lidocaine topical divalproex sodium
Applies to: benzethonium chloride / lidocaine topical and divalproex sodium
Some of the medication in lidocaine topical may be absorbed into the bloodstream following local application. When present in sufficient concentrations in the blood, local anesthetics such as lidocaine topical may cause methemoglobinemia, a rare condition that can lead to oxygen deprivation in tissues and vital organs due to reduced oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood. The risk is increased when combined with other medications that can also induce methemoglobinemia such as divalproex sodium. Individuals may be more susceptible to developing methemoglobinemia during treatment with these medications if they are very young (especially neonates and infants) or have anemia, diseases of the heart or lungs, blood circulation disorders, liver cirrhosis, shock, sepsis, and certain genetic predispositions such as NADH cytochrome-b5 reductase deficiency, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency, and hemoglobin M. In addition, use of topical anesthetics on inflamed or abraded areas or broken skin, as well as excessive use such as application of large doses or on larger than recommended areas, can increase absorption and result in high blood levels of the medication. Topical anesthetics that are applied to mucous membranes such as inside the mouth, nose, or throat (e.G., for sore throat; for numbing prior to dental procedures or scoping of the lungs or gastrointestinal tract) may also be absorbed to a significant extent. Close medical supervision is necessary when medications that can cause methemoglobinemia are used together. Do not exceed the recommended dose or frequency and duration of use when treated with products that contain local anesthetics, including some over-the-counter preparations. Signs and symptoms of methemoglobinemia may be delayed by several hours after treatment with topical anesthetics. Patients (or their caregivers) should seek immediate medical attention if they develop a gray discoloration of the skin, mouth, or nail bed; nausea; headache; dizziness; lightheadedness; fatigue; shortness of breath; rapid or shallow breathing; a rapid heartbeat; palpitation; anxiety; or confusion. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.
Food/lifestyle interactions
Moderate food/lifestyle interactions
Moderate:
divalproex sodium Food/Lifestyle
Applies to: divalproex sodium
Alcohol can increase the nervous system side effects of divalproex sodium such as dizziness, drowsiness, and difficulty concentrating. Some people may also experience impairment in thinking and judgment. You should avoid or limit the use of alcohol while being treated with divalproex sodium. Do not use more than the recommended dose of divalproex sodium, and avoid activities requiring mental alertness such as driving or operating hazardous machinery until you know how the medication affects you. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns.
Minor food/lifestyle interactions
Minor:
lidocaine topical Food/Lifestyle
Applies to: benzethonium chloride / lidocaine topical
Information for this minor interaction is available on the professional version.
Disease interactions
23 potential interactions Applies to: 19 conditions, including Depression, Seizures, HIV-1 Infection, Psychosis, and Diabetes Mellitus.
Bleeding Disorder
Moderate:
divalproex sodium
Divalproex sodium has a moderate potential interaction with Bleeding Disorder.
The use of valproate derivatives may be associated with dose-related thrombocytopenia, the incidence of which is generally low but has been reported at up to 27% in one study using high dosages (approximately 50 mg/kg/day of valproic acid). In that study, platelet counts returned to normal in all patients, some despite continued treatment. Valproate may also inhibit the secondary phase of platelet aggregation, although this effect is unlikely to be of clinical significance except during the concomitant use of other drugs that affect coagulation. However, altered bleeding time, ecchymosis, petechiae, bruising, hematoma formation, epistaxis, and frank hemorrhage have been reported rarely. Hypofibrinogenemia has also been observed. Therapy with valproate products, particularly at high dosages, should be administered cautiously in patients with significant active bleeding or a hemorrhagic diathesis, including hemostatic and/or coagulation defects associated with hemophilia, vitamin K deficiency, hypoprothrombinemia, thrombocytopenia, thrombocytopathy, or severe hepatic impairment. The manufacturers recommend platelet counts and coagulation tests prior to initiating therapy and at periodic intervals thereafter, as well as before planned surgery. The dosage should be reduced or the drug withdrawn if clinical evidence of hemorrhage, bruising, or a disorder of hemostasis or coagulation occurs.
Brain Anomalies incl Congenital
Major:
divalproex sodium
Divalproex sodium has a major potential interaction with Brain Anomalies incl Congenital.
The use of valproate derivatives is contraindicated in patients with hepatic disease or significant hepatic dysfunction. Serious and potentially fatal hepatotoxicity has been reported in patients treated with these agents. The risk appears to be greatest in children less than 2 years of age--particularly those on multiple anticonvulsants and those with congenital metabolic disorders, severe seizure disorders accompanied by intellectual disability, or organic brain disease--and decreases considerably in progressively older patient groups. Therapy with valproate products should be administered with extreme caution and as a sole agent in patients with risk factors for valproate-related hepatotoxicity. In reported cases, the onset has generally been within the first 6 months of treatment and may be preceded by nonspecific symptoms such as malaise, weakness, lethargy, facial edema, anorexia, nausea, vomiting, and a loss of seizure control. Patients should be monitored closely for appearance of these symptoms, and therapy withdrawn immediately if significant hepatic dysfunction occurs. Liver function tests should be performed prior to initiating therapy and at frequent intervals thereafter, especially during the first 6 months. However, clinicians should bear in mind that transient, dose-related, asymptomatic elevations in serum transaminase, amylase and ammonia levels may commonly occur and often return to normal with or without dosage adjustment.
Coagulation Defects and Disorders
Moderate:
divalproex sodium
Divalproex sodium has a moderate potential interaction with Coagulation Defects and Disorders.
The use of valproate derivatives may be associated with dose-related thrombocytopenia, the incidence of which is generally low but has been reported at up to 27% in one study using high dosages (approximately 50 mg/kg/day of valproic acid). In that study, platelet counts returned to normal in all patients, some despite continued treatment. Valproate may also inhibit the secondary phase of platelet aggregation, although this effect is unlikely to be of clinical significance except during the concomitant use of other drugs that affect coagulation. However, altered bleeding time, ecchymosis, petechiae, bruising, hematoma formation, epistaxis, and frank hemorrhage have been reported rarely. Hypofibrinogenemia has also been observed. Therapy with valproate products, particularly at high dosages, should be administered cautiously in patients with significant active bleeding or a hemorrhagic diathesis, including hemostatic and/or coagulation defects associated with hemophilia, vitamin K deficiency, hypoprothrombinemia, thrombocytopenia, thrombocytopathy, or severe hepatic impairment. The manufacturers recommend platelet counts and coagulation tests prior to initiating therapy and at periodic intervals thereafter, as well as before planned surgery. The dosage should be reduced or the drug withdrawn if clinical evidence of hemorrhage, bruising, or a disorder of hemostasis or coagulation occurs.
Depression
Major:
divalproex sodium
Divalproex sodium has a major potential interaction with Depression.
Antiepileptic drugs can increase depression and suicidal thoughts or behaviors in patients receiving these drugs for any indication. Patients should be monitored for the emergence or worsening of depression, suicidal thoughts and unusual changes in mood or behavior. Caregivers and family should be alert for the emergence or worsening of symptoms. Behaviors of concern should be reported immediately to the healthcare providers.
Moderate:
divalproex sodium
Divalproex sodium has a moderate potential interaction with Depression.
Antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) have been associated with an increased risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior in patients taking these drugs for any indication. Pooled analyses of 199 placebo-controlled clinical studies involving the use of 11 different AEDs showed that patients receiving AEDs had approximately twice the risk of suicidal thinking or behavior compared to patients receiving placebo. AEDs should be administered cautiously in patients with depression or other psychiatric disorders; phentermine-topiramate should be avoided in patients with history of suicidal attempts or active suicidal ideation. The risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior should be carefully assessed against the risk of untreated illness, bearing in mind that epilepsy and many other conditions for which AEDs are prescribed are themselves associated with morbidity and mortality and an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior. Patients, caregivers, and families should be alert to the emergence or worsening of signs and symptoms of depression, any unusual changes in mood or behavior, or the emergence of suicidal thoughts or behavior. If patients have symptoms of suicidal ideation or behavior, a dosage reduction or treatment discontinuation should be considered.
Diabetes Mellitus
Moderate:
divalproex sodium
Divalproex sodium has a moderate potential interaction with Diabetes Mellitus.
Valproate is partially eliminated in the urine as a ketone-containing metabolite, which may lead to a false interpretation of the urine ketone test. Clinicians should be cognizant of this interaction when prescribing or administering valproate products to patients with diabetes.
Heart Block
Major:
benzethonium chloride / lidocaine topical
The lidocaine topical in benzethonium chloride / lidocaine topical has a major potential interaction with Heart Block.
Lidocaine is absorbed through intact skin and mucosal membranes following topical administration. Prolonged exposure, large doses, frequent applications and/or use on compromised skin or mucosa can produce systemic effects. At high plasma levels, lidocaine can cause hypotension, bradycardia, and cardiovascular collapse. Therapy with lidocaine topical should be administered cautiously in patients with shock, sinus bradyarrhythmia, or severe heart block. The recommended dosage should not be exceeded. Children and debilitated, elderly, or acutely ill patients should be given reduced dosages commensurate with their age, weight, and physical condition.
HIV-1 Infection
Moderate:
divalproex sodium
Divalproex sodium has a moderate potential interaction with HIV-1 Infection.
Some in vitro studies suggest that valproate stimulates the replication of the HIV and CMV viruses under certain experimental conditions. The clinical consequences are unknown, and the relevance of these findings is uncertain for patients receiving maximally suppressive antiretroviral therapy. However, this should be borne in mind when interpreting the results from regular monitoring of the viral load in HIV infected patients receiving valproate or when following CMV infected patients clinically.
Intellectual Disability
Major:
divalproex sodium
Divalproex sodium has a major potential interaction with Intellectual Disability.
The use of valproate derivatives is contraindicated in patients with hepatic disease or significant hepatic dysfunction. Serious and potentially fatal hepatotoxicity has been reported in patients treated with these agents. The risk appears to be greatest in children less than 2 years of age--particularly those on multiple anticonvulsants and those with congenital metabolic disorders, severe seizure disorders accompanied by intellectual disability, or organic brain disease--and decreases considerably in progressively older patient groups. Therapy with valproate products should be administered with extreme caution and as a sole agent in patients with risk factors for valproate-related hepatotoxicity. In reported cases, the onset has generally been within the first 6 months of treatment and may be preceded by nonspecific symptoms such as malaise, weakness, lethargy, facial edema, anorexia, nausea, vomiting, and a loss of seizure control. Patients should be monitored closely for appearance of these symptoms, and therapy withdrawn immediately if significant hepatic dysfunction occurs. Liver function tests should be performed prior to initiating therapy and at frequent intervals thereafter, especially during the first 6 months. However, clinicians should bear in mind that transient, dose-related, asymptomatic elevations in serum transaminase, amylase and ammonia levels may commonly occur and often return to normal with or without dosage adjustment.
Major:
divalproex sodium
Divalproex sodium has a major potential interaction with Intellectual Disability.
Valproic acid and derivative products are contraindicated in patients with known urea cycle disorders (UCD), as hyperammonemic encephalopathy, sometimes fatal, has been reported on these patients following the initiation of treatment. Prior to the initiation of therapy, the evaluation for UCD should be considered in patients with history of unexplained encephalopathy or comma, encephalopathy associated with a protein load, pregnancy- related or postpartum encephalopathy, unexplained intellectual disability, or history of elevated plasma ammonia or glutamine. Also, those with family history of UCD or family history of unexplained infant deaths. Patients who develop symptoms of hyperammonemic encephalopathy while receiving valproate therapy should receive prompt treatment including treatment discontinuation and be evaluated for underlying urea cycle disorders.
Liver Disease
Major:
benzethonium chloride / lidocaine topical
The lidocaine topical in benzethonium chloride / lidocaine topical has a major potential interaction with Liver Disease.
Lidocaine topical is absorbed through intact skin and mucosal membranes. Prolonged exposure, large doses, and/or application to compromised skin or mucosa can result in elevated plasma concentrations of lidocaine. Lidocaine is rapidly and extensively metabolized by the liver. Less than 10% is eliminated unchanged in the urine. Several inactive and two active forms (MEGX and GX) have been identified. MEGX and GX exhibit antiarrhythmic and convulsant properties. The pharmacokinetic disposition of lidocaine is altered by changes in hepatic function, including hepatic blood flow. Therapy with lidocaine topical should be administered cautiously and dosing modified for patients with compromised hepatic function.
Major:
divalproex sodium
Divalproex sodium has a major potential interaction with Liver Disease.
The use of valproate derivatives is contraindicated in patients with hepatic disease or significant hepatic dysfunction. Serious and potentially fatal hepatotoxicity has been reported in patients treated with these agents. The risk appears to be greatest in children less than 2 years of age--particularly those on multiple anticonvulsants and those with congenital metabolic disorders, severe seizure disorders accompanied by intellectual disability, or organic brain disease--and decreases considerably in progressively older patient groups. Therapy with valproate products should be administered with extreme caution and as a sole agent in patients with risk factors for valproate-related hepatotoxicity. In reported cases, the onset has generally been within the first 6 months of treatment and may be preceded by nonspecific symptoms such as malaise, weakness, lethargy, facial edema, anorexia, nausea, vomiting, and a loss of seizure control. Patients should be monitored closely for appearance of these symptoms, and therapy withdrawn immediately if significant hepatic dysfunction occurs. Liver function tests should be performed prior to initiating therapy and at frequent intervals thereafter, especially during the first 6 months. However, clinicians should bear in mind that transient, dose-related, asymptomatic elevations in serum transaminase, amylase and ammonia levels may commonly occur and often return to normal with or without dosage adjustment.
Metabolic Disorders
Major:
divalproex sodium
Divalproex sodium has a major potential interaction with Metabolic Disorders.
The use of valproate derivatives is contraindicated in patients with hepatic disease or significant hepatic dysfunction. Serious and potentially fatal hepatotoxicity has been reported in patients treated with these agents. The risk appears to be greatest in children less than 2 years of age--particularly those on multiple anticonvulsants and those with congenital metabolic disorders, severe seizure disorders accompanied by intellectual disability, or organic brain disease--and decreases considerably in progressively older patient groups. Therapy with valproate products should be administered with extreme caution and as a sole agent in patients with risk factors for valproate-related hepatotoxicity. In reported cases, the onset has generally been within the first 6 months of treatment and may be preceded by nonspecific symptoms such as malaise, weakness, lethargy, facial edema, anorexia, nausea, vomiting, and a loss of seizure control. Patients should be monitored closely for appearance of these symptoms, and therapy withdrawn immediately if significant hepatic dysfunction occurs. Liver function tests should be performed prior to initiating therapy and at frequent intervals thereafter, especially during the first 6 months. However, clinicians should bear in mind that transient, dose-related, asymptomatic elevations in serum transaminase, amylase and ammonia levels may commonly occur and often return to normal with or without dosage adjustment.
Major:
divalproex sodium
Divalproex sodium has a major potential interaction with Metabolic Disorders.
Valproic acid and derivative products are contraindicated in patients with known urea cycle disorders (UCD), as hyperammonemic encephalopathy, sometimes fatal, has been reported on these patients following the initiation of treatment. Prior to the initiation of therapy, the evaluation for UCD should be considered in patients with history of unexplained encephalopathy or comma, encephalopathy associated with a protein load, pregnancy- related or postpartum encephalopathy, unexplained intellectual disability, or history of elevated plasma ammonia or glutamine. Also, those with family history of UCD or family history of unexplained infant deaths. Patients who develop symptoms of hyperammonemic encephalopathy while receiving valproate therapy should receive prompt treatment including treatment discontinuation and be evaluated for underlying urea cycle disorders.
Psychosis
Moderate:
divalproex sodium
Divalproex sodium has a moderate potential interaction with Psychosis.
Antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) have been associated with an increased risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior in patients taking these drugs for any indication. Pooled analyses of 199 placebo-controlled clinical studies involving the use of 11 different AEDs showed that patients receiving AEDs had approximately twice the risk of suicidal thinking or behavior compared to patients receiving placebo. AEDs should be administered cautiously in patients with depression or other psychiatric disorders; phentermine-topiramate should be avoided in patients with history of suicidal attempts or active suicidal ideation. The risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior should be carefully assessed against the risk of untreated illness, bearing in mind that epilepsy and many other conditions for which AEDs are prescribed are themselves associated with morbidity and mortality and an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior. Patients, caregivers, and families should be alert to the emergence or worsening of signs and symptoms of depression, any unusual changes in mood or behavior, or the emergence of suicidal thoughts or behavior. If patients have symptoms of suicidal ideation or behavior, a dosage reduction or treatment discontinuation should be considered.
Renal Dysfunction
Major:
benzethonium chloride / lidocaine topical
The lidocaine topical in benzethonium chloride / lidocaine topical has a major potential interaction with Renal Dysfunction.
Lidocaine topical is absorbed through intact skin and mucosal membranes. Prolonged exposure, large doses, and/or application to compromised skin or mucosa can result in elevated plasma concentrations of lidocaine. Lidocaine is primarily eliminated by the kidney. Less than 10% is eliminated unchanged in the urine. Two active metabolites (MEGX and GX) have been identified that exhibit antiarrhythmic and convulsant properties. Serum concentrations of lidocaine and the active metabolites are increased and the half-life prolonged in patients with renal impairment. Therapy with lidocaine topical should be administered cautiously and dosing modified for repeated doses in patients with compromised renal function.
Seizures
Major:
benzethonium chloride / lidocaine topical
The lidocaine topical in benzethonium chloride / lidocaine topical has a major potential interaction with Seizures.
Lidocaine topical is absorbed through intact skin and mucosal membranes. Prolonged exposure, large doses, and/or application to compromised skin or mucosa can result in elevated plasma concentrations of lidocaine. Seizures can occur as a result of accumulation of active metabolites. Therapy with lidocaine topical should be administered cautiously to patients with or predisposed to seizure disorders.
Shock
Major:
benzethonium chloride / lidocaine topical
The lidocaine topical in benzethonium chloride / lidocaine topical has a major potential interaction with Shock.
Lidocaine is absorbed through intact skin and mucosal membranes following topical administration. Prolonged exposure, large doses, frequent applications and/or use on compromised skin or mucosa can produce systemic effects. At high plasma levels, lidocaine can cause hypotension, bradycardia, and cardiovascular collapse. Therapy with lidocaine topical should be administered cautiously in patients with shock, sinus bradyarrhythmia, or severe heart block. The recommended dosage should not be exceeded. Children and debilitated, elderly, or acutely ill patients should be given reduced dosages commensurate with their age, weight, and physical condition.
Teething Syndrome
Major:
benzethonium chloride / lidocaine topical
The lidocaine topical in benzethonium chloride / lidocaine topical has a major potential interaction with Teething Syndrome.
Topical lidocaine is not recommended to be used in teething infants and young children, as its ingestion is dangerous and potentially fatal. Ingestion of the drug has shown to result in seizures, severe brain injury, and heart problems in children.
Thrombocytopathy
Moderate:
divalproex sodium
Divalproex sodium has a moderate potential interaction with Thrombocytopathy.
The use of valproate derivatives may be associated with dose-related thrombocytopenia, the incidence of which is generally low but has been reported at up to 27% in one study using high dosages (approximately 50 mg/kg/day of valproic acid). In that study, platelet counts returned to normal in all patients, some despite continued treatment. Valproate may also inhibit the secondary phase of platelet aggregation, although this effect is unlikely to be of clinical significance except during the concomitant use of other drugs that affect coagulation. However, altered bleeding time, ecchymosis, petechiae, bruising, hematoma formation, epistaxis, and frank hemorrhage have been reported rarely. Hypofibrinogenemia has also been observed. Therapy with valproate products, particularly at high dosages, should be administered cautiously in patients with significant active bleeding or a hemorrhagic diathesis, including hemostatic and/or coagulation defects associated with hemophilia, vitamin K deficiency, hypoprothrombinemia, thrombocytopenia, thrombocytopathy, or severe hepatic impairment. The manufacturers recommend platelet counts and coagulation tests prior to initiating therapy and at periodic intervals thereafter, as well as before planned surgery. The dosage should be reduced or the drug withdrawn if clinical evidence of hemorrhage, bruising, or a disorder of hemostasis or coagulation occurs.
Thrombocytopenia
Moderate:
divalproex sodium
Divalproex sodium has a moderate potential interaction with Thrombocytopenia.
The use of valproate derivatives may be associated with dose-related thrombocytopenia, the incidence of which is generally low but has been reported at up to 27% in one study using high dosages (approximately 50 mg/kg/day of valproic acid). In that study, platelet counts returned to normal in all patients, some despite continued treatment. Valproate may also inhibit the secondary phase of platelet aggregation, although this effect is unlikely to be of clinical significance except during the concomitant use of other drugs that affect coagulation. However, altered bleeding time, ecchymosis, petechiae, bruising, hematoma formation, epistaxis, and frank hemorrhage have been reported rarely. Hypofibrinogenemia has also been observed. Therapy with valproate products, particularly at high dosages, should be administered cautiously in patients with significant active bleeding or a hemorrhagic diathesis, including hemostatic and/or coagulation defects associated with hemophilia, vitamin K deficiency, hypoprothrombinemia, thrombocytopenia, thrombocytopathy, or severe hepatic impairment. The manufacturers recommend platelet counts and coagulation tests prior to initiating therapy and at periodic intervals thereafter, as well as before planned surgery. The dosage should be reduced or the drug withdrawn if clinical evidence of hemorrhage, bruising, or a disorder of hemostasis or coagulation occurs.
Thyroid Disease
Moderate:
divalproex sodium
Divalproex sodium has a moderate potential interaction with Thyroid Disease.
The manufacturers state that there have been reports of altered thyroid function tests associated with the use of valproate. However, no specific information is given. Clinicians should be cognizant of this potential effect when prescribing or administering valproate products to patients with thyroid disease.
Vitamin K Deficiency
Moderate:
divalproex sodium
Divalproex sodium has a moderate potential interaction with Vitamin K Deficiency.
The use of valproate derivatives may be associated with dose-related thrombocytopenia, the incidence of which is generally low but has been reported at up to 27% in one study using high dosages (approximately 50 mg/kg/day of valproic acid). In that study, platelet counts returned to normal in all patients, some despite continued treatment. Valproate may also inhibit the secondary phase of platelet aggregation, although this effect is unlikely to be of clinical significance except during the concomitant use of other drugs that affect coagulation. However, altered bleeding time, ecchymosis, petechiae, bruising, hematoma formation, epistaxis, and frank hemorrhage have been reported rarely. Hypofibrinogenemia has also been observed. Therapy with valproate products, particularly at high dosages, should be administered cautiously in patients with significant active bleeding or a hemorrhagic diathesis, including hemostatic and/or coagulation defects associated with hemophilia, vitamin K deficiency, hypoprothrombinemia, thrombocytopenia, thrombocytopathy, or severe hepatic impairment. The manufacturers recommend platelet counts and coagulation tests prior to initiating therapy and at periodic intervals thereafter, as well as before planned surgery. The dosage should be reduced or the drug withdrawn if clinical evidence of hemorrhage, bruising, or a disorder of hemostasis or coagulation occurs.
More resources
benzethonium chloride / lidocaine topical
A total of 122 drugs are known to interact with benzethonium chloride / lidocaine topical.
- Benzethonium chloride / lidocaine topical is in the drug class miscellaneous topical agents.
divalproex sodium
A total of 446 drugs are known to interact with divalproex sodium.
- Divalproex sodium is in the drug class fatty acid derivative anticonvulsants.
-
Divalproex sodium is used to treat the following conditions:
- Bipolar Disorder
- Borderline Personality Disorder (off-label)
- Cyclothymic Disorder (off-label)
- Epilepsy
- Hyperekplexia (off-label)
- Mania
- Migraine Prevention
- Seizures
Drug Interaction Classification
| Highly clinically significant. Avoid combinations; the risk of the interaction outweighs the benefit. | |
| Moderately clinically significant. Usually avoid combinations; use it only under special circumstances. | |
| Minimally clinically significant. Minimize risk; assess risk and consider an alternative drug, take steps to circumvent the interaction risk and/or institute a monitoring plan. | |
| No interaction information available. |
Further information
Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.