Sodium Valproate (200mg/5ml)

Sodium Valproate (200mg/5ml) — Uses and Benefits

This medicine is mainly used to treat epilepsy and certain mood disorders.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Controlling different types of seizures (fits), including generalised and partial seizures
• Preventing seizures in epilepsy
• Treating manic episodes in bipolar disorder
• Sometimes used to prevent migraine attacks (as advised by doctor)

HOW IT WORKS

• It increases levels of a calming brain chemical called GABA
• This helps reduce abnormal electrical activity in the brain that causes seizures
• It also helps stabilise mood by calming overactive nerve signalling

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It is not a painkiller and does not treat acute pain
• It does not treat infections
• It is not used for occasional headaches unrelated to migraine
• It should not be used as a general sedative or sleep aid

This medicine should only be used for the condition your doctor has diagnosed and prescribed it for.

How to Use Sodium Valproate (200mg/5ml)

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, using the measuring cup or oral syringe provided
• Shake the bottle well before use
• Can be taken with or after food to reduce stomach upset
• Do not stop suddenly without consulting your doctor, as this may trigger seizures
• Swallow the liquid directly; do not mix with carbonated drinks

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 as usual
• Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one
• If you miss doses often, inform your doctor

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep the bottle tightly closed
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the label
• Discard any unused liquid as advised by your pharmacist after opening for a long period

Sodium Valproate (200mg/5ml) — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

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

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Menstrual changes
• Mild memory or concentration problems
• Swelling of legs
• Increased appetite

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice)
• Severe stomach pain (possible pancreatitis)
• Unusual bleeding or bruising
• Severe drowsiness or confusion
• Signs of liver problems like dark urine or extreme tiredness
• Suicidal thoughts or unusual mood changes
• Severe skin rash or allergic reaction

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

Sodium Valproate (200mg/5ml) — Safety Information and Precautions

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

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Have a known allergy to sodium valproate or valproic acid
• Have active liver disease
• Have a known urea cycle disorder
• Are pregnant, unless specifically advised by a specialist doctor

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
• Have liver or kidney disease
• Have a history of blood disorders
• Have a family history of metabolic or genetic disorders
• Are already taking other anti-epileptic or psychiatric medicines

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Other anti-epileptic drugs like phenytoin, carbamazepine, lamotrigine
• Blood thinners such as aspirin or warfarin
• Certain antibiotics like carbapenems
• Antidepressants and antipsychotics
• Always share your complete medicine list with your doctor

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I drink alcohol while taking this medicine?

No, alcohol can increase drowsiness and liver-related side effects, so it should be avoided.

Is this medicine safe during pregnancy?

It carries risk of birth defects and is generally avoided in pregnancy unless no safer alternative exists; discuss carefully with your doctor.

How long do I need to take this medicine?

• Duration depends on your condition and response to treatment, and only your doctor can decide when it is safe to stop.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.