ENCORATE 300MG TABLET

Uses and Benefits of ENCORATE 300MG TABLET (SODIUM VALPROATE 300MG)

Sodium Valproate is mainly used to treat epilepsy and certain mood disorders.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Control of various types of seizures (fits) including generalised and partial seizures
• Prevention of seizures in epilepsy
• Treatment of manic episodes in bipolar disorder
• Prevention of migraine headaches in some patients

HOW IT WORKS

• Increases the levels of a calming brain chemical called GABA
• Reduces abnormal and excessive electrical activity in brain cells
• Helps stabilise mood by balancing brain chemical activity

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• Not a painkiller for everyday headaches
• Not used for treating infections
• Not a first-choice treatment during pregnancy due to risk to the unborn baby
• Not meant for occasional or as-needed use; it is a regular preventive treatment

Side Effects of ENCORATE 300MG TABLET (SODIUM VALPROATE 300MG)

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Nausea and stomach upset
• Weight gain
• Hair thinning or hair loss
• Tremor (shaking of hands)
• Drowsiness or tiredness

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Menstrual irregularities
• Mild swelling of legs
• Confusion or mood changes
• Increased appetite

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice) suggesting liver problems
• Severe stomach pain, which may indicate pancreatitis
• Unusual bleeding or bruising
• Severe drowsiness, confusion or loss of consciousness
• Signs of allergic reaction such as rash, swelling of face or difficulty breathing
• Suicidal thoughts or worsening mood

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

How to Use ENCORATE 300MG TABLET (SODIUM VALPROATE 300MG)

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually once or twice a day
• Swallow the tablet whole with water; do not chew or crush unless your doctor says it is fine
• Take with food to reduce stomach irritation
• Do not stop suddenly as this can trigger seizures; any dose change must be done gradually under medical supervision
• Continue taking it regularly even if you feel well, since it is a preventive treatment

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember
• If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule
• Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one
• If you miss doses often, inform your doctor as this can affect seizure control

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not store in the bathroom or near a sink
• Discard expired medicine safely, do not use it

Safety Information and Precautions for ENCORATE 300MG TABLET (SODIUM VALPROATE 300MG)

This is a prescription-only medicine in India and should be used only under medical supervision.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to sodium valproate or valproic acid
• Have active liver disease or a family history of severe liver problems on this medicine
• Have a known urea cycle disorder
• Are pregnant or planning pregnancy, unless specifically advised by your doctor

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have any liver or kidney disease
• Have a bleeding disorder
• Are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning a pregnancy
• Have a history of depression or suicidal thoughts
• Are already taking other seizure or psychiatric medicines

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Other anti-epileptic drugs like phenytoin, carbamazepine or lamotrigine
• Blood thinners such as warfarin or aspirin
• Certain antibiotics like meropenem
• Other medicines affecting the liver
• Alcohol, which can increase drowsiness and liver risk

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I drink alcohol while taking this medicine?

It is best to avoid alcohol as it can increase drowsiness and liver-related side effects.

Is this medicine safe during pregnancy?

It carries a high risk of birth defects and should generally be avoided in pregnancy unless no safer alternative exists; discuss this carefully with your doctor.

How long do I need to take this medicine?

• Treatment duration depends on your condition and response, and is usually decided by your doctor after periodic review.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.