EPILEX CHRONO 500MG TABLET

Uses and Benefits of EPILEX CHRONO 500MG TABLET (SODIUM VALPROATE 333MG + VALPROIC ACID 145MG)

This combination medicine is mainly used to treat epilepsy (seizures/fits) and certain mood disorders like bipolar disorder. It may also be used for migraine prevention in some cases.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Control of different types of seizures/epilepsy
• Management of manic episodes in bipolar disorder
• Prevention of migraine headaches (in some patients)

HOW IT WORKS

• Increases levels of a calming brain chemical called GABA
• Reduces abnormal electrical activity in brain cells
• Helps stabilise mood by acting on nerve signalling

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• Not used for treating infections
• Not a painkiller for everyday aches and pains
• Not used for treating anxiety alone without epilepsy or mood disorder
• Not recommended for use during pregnancy unless absolutely necessary and doctor-advised

This medicine should only be used for the condition your doctor has diagnosed and prescribed it for. Do not stop or change the dose without medical advice, as this can trigger seizures.

Side Effects of EPILEX CHRONO 500MG TABLET (SODIUM VALPROATE 333MG + VALPROIC ACID 145MG)

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Nausea or vomiting
• Stomach upset or indigestion
• Tremor (shaking of hands)
• Weight gain
• Hair thinning or hair loss
• Drowsiness

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Mood changes or irritability
• Menstrual irregularities
• Swelling of ankles or feet
• Increased appetite

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice) — sign of liver problems
• Severe stomach pain with vomiting — possible pancreatitis
• Unusual bleeding or bruising
• Severe drowsiness, confusion, or difficulty waking up
• Swelling of face, lips, or throat, or difficulty breathing (allergic reaction)
• Thoughts of self-harm or worsening mood
• Severe skin rash or blistering

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

How to Use EPILEX CHRONO 500MG TABLET (SODIUM VALPROATE 333MG + VALPROIC ACID 145MG)

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually once or twice daily
• Swallow the tablet whole with water; do not crush or chew unless your doctor says it is safe to do so
• Take with food if it causes stomach upset
• Take at the same time(s) each day to maintain steady levels in the body
• Do not stop suddenly, even if you feel better, without consulting your doctor

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take the missed dose 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 double the dose to make up for a missed one
• If you miss doses frequently, inform your doctor as this may affect seizure control

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep out of reach and sight of children
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack
• Keep in the original container/blister until it is time to take it

Safety Information and Precautions for EPILEX CHRONO 500MG TABLET (SODIUM VALPROATE 333MG + VALPROIC ACID 145MG)

This is a prescription-only medicine in India and should not be used without a doctor's prescription.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Have a known liver disease or family history of severe liver problems
• Have a urea cycle disorder
• Are allergic to valproate or any ingredient in this medicine
• Are pregnant or planning pregnancy (unless specifically advised by a specialist)

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have any liver, kidney, or blood disorders
• Are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to conceive
• Have a history of pancreatitis
• Are taking other medicines for epilepsy, mood disorders, or blood thinners
• Have diabetes, as this medicine can affect blood sugar readings

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Other anti-epileptic drugs (like phenytoin, carbamazepine, lamotrigine)
• Blood thinners (like warfarin, aspirin)
• Antidepressants and antipsychotic medicines
• Oral contraceptives (effectiveness may be altered)
• Antibiotics such as carbapenems

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I drink alcohol while taking this medicine?

No, alcohol can increase drowsiness and liver risk, so it should be avoided.

Will this medicine make me gain weight?

Weight gain is a known possible side effect for some people; discuss diet and monitoring with your doctor.

Can I stop this medicine once my seizures are controlled?

• No, stopping suddenly can trigger seizures; any change in dose must be done gradually under medical supervision.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.