Sodium Valproate
Sodium Valproate is used to treat conditions such as epilepsy and bipolar disorder. It works by preventing extreme mood swings and abnormal brain signals that trigger seizures (fits). It also helps in the prevention of migraines.
Introduction
Generic name: Sodium valproate
Storage: Store below 30°C
Overview
- Valparin 200 Tablet can be used alone or in combination with other medicines. It may be taken with or without food. Your doctor will decide the correct dose for you.
- This may increase gradually until your condition is stable. This medicine may take several weeks to work but it is important to take it regularly to get the benefit. Do not stop taking it, even if you feel fine, unless your doctor advises you to.
- You may have more seizures, or your bipolar disorder may get worse.
- Some of the common side effects of this medicine include headache, nausea, dizziness, sleepiness, constipation, diarrhea, double vision, and weight gain among many others.
- Most side effects wear off, but if they bother you or do not go away, tell your doctor. There may be ways of preventing or reducing these effects.
- Long-term treatment can cause weakness in your bones (osteoporosis), increasing your risk of breaking a bone.
Uses
Epilepsy/Seizures
Prevention of Migraine
Bipolar disorder
Benefits
In Epilepsy/Seizures
Valparin 200 Tablet is an anticonvulsant (or anti-epileptic) medicine that works by decreasing the nerve impulses which cause the seizures. By controlling the frequency of seizures, it will help you go about your daily activities with more confidence. It helps reduce symptoms such as confusion, uncontrollable jerking movements, loss of awareness, and fear or anxiety.
This medicine is not associated with any physical or psychological dependence (addiction) but it should not be stopped suddenly. It must be taken regularly as prescribed to be effective. Missing doses may trigger a seizure.
In Prevention of Migraine
It is not fully established how Valparin 200 Tablet helps prevent migraines. It may change the abnormal and excessive activity of the nerve cells in the brain or increase the activity in a region of the brain associated with migraines. By preventing and reducing the frequency of headaches, it can help you carry out your daily activities and have a better quality of life.
In Bipolar disorder
Valparin 200 Tablet works to restore the normal balance of nerve activity in your brain. It can help prevent extreme changes in mood and help you feel less agitated. You may experience fewer episodes of low mood. It can take several weeks for this medicine to work and you may still feel low during this time. It is likely that you will take this medicine for at least six months but possibly much longer. It needs to be taken regularly to work effectively. Do not stop taking it unless your doctor advises you to. You should continue to eat well and keep fit to reduce symptoms of bipolar disorder.
Directions for use
Take this medicine in the dose and duration as advised by your doctor. Swallow it as a whole. Do not chew, crush or break it. Valparin 200 Tablet is to be taken with food.
How it works?
Valparin 200 Tablet is an antiepileptic medication. It controls seizures or fits by decreasing the abnormal and excessive activity of the nerve cells in the brain.
Side effects
Side effects of valproate include the following
Most side effects do not require any medical attention and disappear as your body adjusts to the medicine. Consult your doctor if they persist or if you’re worried about them
Common side effects of Valparin
Headache
Dizziness
Blurred vision
Nausea
Vomiting
Sleepiness
Hair loss
Weight gain
Tremors
Double vision
Impaired coordination
Weakness
Increased appetite
Insomnia (difficulty in sleeping)
Abdominal pain
Abnormal thoughts