Sodium Valproate 200mg + Valproic Acid 87mg

Sodium Valproate 200mg + Valproic Acid 87mg — Uses and Benefits

This composition is mainly used to treat epilepsy (seizures) and to help manage episodes of mania in bipolar disorder.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Controlling different types of seizures, including generalised and partial seizures
• Preventing seizure recurrence in known epilepsy patients
• Managing manic episodes in bipolar disorder
• Sometimes used for prevention of migraine, as advised by a doctor

HOW IT WORKS

• Increases the levels of a calming brain chemical called GABA
• Reduces abnormal, excessive electrical activity in brain cells
• Helps stabilise mood and prevent sudden seizure activity

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• Not a painkiller for headaches other than migraine prevention
• Not used for treating infections
• Not a first-choice medicine for anxiety or routine sleep problems
• Should not be used to self-treat any fits without medical diagnosis

How to Use Sodium Valproate 200mg + Valproic Acid 87mg

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually once or twice daily
• Swallow tablets whole with water; do not crush or chew unless your doctor says it is fine
• Take with food to reduce stomach irritation
• Do not stop suddenly, even if you feel better, as this can trigger seizures
• Continue regular blood tests if advised, to monitor liver function and drug levels

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 as usual
• Do not take two doses together to make up for a missed one
• If you miss doses often, inform your doctor as it 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 after the expiry date

Sodium Valproate 200mg + Valproic Acid 87mg — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

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

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Menstrual irregularities
• Mild memory or concentration problems
• Increased appetite
• Mild swelling of legs

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine (signs of liver problems)
• Severe stomach pain (possible pancreatitis)
• Unusual bleeding, bruising, or infections (blood disorder)
• Severe drowsiness, confusion, or unsteady walking
• Signs of severe allergic reaction: rash, swelling of face/lips, difficulty breathing
• Thoughts of self-harm or worsening mood changes

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

Sodium Valproate 200mg + Valproic Acid 87mg — 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 known active liver disease
• Have a personal or family history of severe liver problems linked to valproate
• Have a diagnosed urea cycle disorder
• Are allergic to valproate or related compounds
• Are pregnant, unless specifically advised by your doctor, due to risk of birth defects

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
• Have any liver or kidney disease
• Have a blood clotting disorder
• Are already taking other seizure or psychiatric medicines
• Have a history of pancreatitis

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Other anti-epileptic drugs (e.g., phenytoin, carbamazepine, lamotrigine)
• Blood thinners like warfarin or aspirin
• Certain antibiotics such as carbapenems
• Sedatives, sleeping pills, or alcohol
• Oral contraceptives, as effectiveness may change

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I stop this medicine once my seizures are controlled?

No, stopping suddenly can cause seizures to return; any change should be done gradually under your doctor's guidance.

Is it safe during pregnancy?

It carries a known risk of birth defects, so women planning pregnancy must discuss alternatives with their doctor beforehand.

Will this medicine make me feel sleepy all the time?

• Some drowsiness can occur initially but often improves; avoid driving or heavy machinery until you know how it affects you.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.