Sodium Valproate 200mg

Sodium Valproate 200mg — Uses and Benefits

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

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Controlling different types of seizures (fits) in epilepsy
• Treating and preventing episodes of mania in bipolar disorder
• Sometimes used to prevent migraine headaches

HOW IT WORKS

• Increases the level of a calming brain chemical called GABA
• Stabilizes electrical activity in nerve cells
• Reduces abnormal, excessive signalling that causes seizures or mood swings

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It is not a painkiller and does not treat headaches directly other than migraine prevention
• It is not used for infections
• It is not a first-choice treatment during pregnancy due to risks to the unborn baby
• It does not cure epilepsy or bipolar disorder, it only controls symptoms

How to Use Sodium Valproate 200mg

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually with food to reduce stomach upset
• Swallow the tablet whole with water; do not crush or chew unless your doctor says it is okay
• Do not stop taking it suddenly, even if you feel better, as this can trigger seizures
• Take it at the same time(s) each day to maintain steady levels in the body

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember
• If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your normal schedule
• Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one
• If you miss multiple doses, contact your doctor before restarting

STORAGE

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

Sodium Valproate 200mg — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

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

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Mood changes or irritability
• Menstrual irregularities
• Swelling of ankles or legs
• Blurred vision

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

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

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

Sodium Valproate 200mg — Safety Information and Precautions

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

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to sodium valproate or its ingredients
• Have active liver disease
• Have a known disorder of the urea cycle
• Are pregnant or planning pregnancy, unless specifically advised by a specialist

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have any liver or kidney problems
• Have a bleeding disorder
• Are breastfeeding
• Have a history of pancreatitis
• Are taking any other medicines, including herbal or over-the-counter products

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Other anti-epileptic drugs like lamotrigine, phenytoin, carbamazepine
• Blood thinners such as warfarin or aspirin
• Antidepressants and antipsychotics
• Oral contraceptives (effectiveness may be affected)

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I drink alcohol while taking this medicine?

It is best to avoid alcohol as it can increase drowsiness and affect liver function.

Will this medicine make me gain weight?

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

Can I take this medicine during pregnancy?

• It is generally avoided in pregnancy due to risk of birth defects; consult your doctor for safer alternatives.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.