Sodium Valproate / Valproic Acid

Dosage Forms Available

• Sodium Valproate / Valproic Acid can be taken orally (tablets, capsules, liquid solutions, and syrups) and intravenous (infusion) routes.

Age and Dose Restrictions

• Sodium Valproate / Valproic Acid is meant for adults and children, subject to specific dosage restrictions.

Contraindications

• This medicine should not be used in patients with known hypersensitivity to Sodium Valproate / Valproic Acid or any other constituents of this medicine.
• Patients with known urea cycle disorders or mitochondrial disorders caused by mutations in mitochondrial DNA polymerase γ (POLG) should refrain from using this medicine.

Other Medications to Avoid with This Medicine

• Sodium Valproate / Valproic Acid may interact with salicylates (eg., aspirin and bismuth subsalicylate), benzodiazepines (eg., diazepam and lorazepam), carbapenem antibiotics (eg., imipenem and meropenem), other anticonvulsants (eg., phenytoin and phenobarbital) and antifungal medicines (eg., ketoconazole and levoketoconazole).

Overdose and Missed Dose

• An overdose of this medicine can cause symptoms such as extreme drowsiness, agitation, or loss of consciousness. If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate medical assistance.
• If you happen to miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your regular schedule. Do not double up on doses to make up for the missed one.

Management of Side Effects

Most side effects of Sodium Valproate / Valproic Acid are temporary, harmless and generally subside after discontinuing the medicine. However, if you experience severe side effects, consult your doctor promptly.

• To manage nausea and vomiting, try taking this medication with meals or a snack.
• If this medicine causes diarrhoea, ensure that you drink enough water to avoid dehydration.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• This medicine may affect your ability to drive or operate heavy machines. Avoid driving if you experience dizziness or drowsiness after taking this medication.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• The use of this medicine during pregnancy or breastfeeding is not recommended without a doctor's advice. Consult your doctor before taking this medication if you are pregnant or nursing.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Patients with a history of depression or liver disease should exercise caution while taking this medicine.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendation

• Regular aerobic exercise can help manage conditions such as epilepsy and bipolar disorder.
• Adequate rest and good sleep practices can also help manage the symptoms of disorders like epilepsy.