Valkem-OD 500 Tablet (Divalproex )

What is Divalproex Sodium for:

This medication is an anticonvulsant, prescribed for bipolar disorder, epilepsy and to prevent migraine headache. It controls the abnormal activity of nerve impulses in the brain and central nervous system.

How does Divalproex Sodium work:

Valproic acid and derivatives help clear thinking. It raises a chemical called gamma-aminobutyric in the brain. This chemical calms the brain. It helps steady mood.

How should Divalproex Sodium be used:

Adult: PO- Partial seizures; Primary generalized seizures- Initial-10-15 mgkgday in 2-4 divided doses. Max: 60 mgkgday. Acute manic episodes of bipolar disorder- Initial- 25 mgkg once daily. Max: 60 mgkgday. Migraine prophylaxis- 500 mg once daily for 1 wk, up to 1,000 mg once daily. It comes as a tablet to take by mouth, with food.

Common side effects of Divalproex Sodium :

Feeling lightheaded, sleepy, having blurred eyesight, or a change in thinking clearly. Avoid driving and doing other tasks or actions that call for you to be alert or have clear eyesight until you see how this drug affects you. Feeling dizzy. Rise slowly over a few minutes when sitting or lying down. Be careful climbing. Headache. Upset stomach or throwing up. Many small meals, good mouth care, sucking hard, sugar-free candy, or chewing sugar-free gum may help. Loose stools (diarrhea). Belly pain. Hair loss. Muscle weakness. Twitching. Not able to sleep.

Dosage

Valkem-OD 250 Tablet
Valkem-OD 500 Tablet

What do I do if I miss a dose

Take a missed dose as soon as you think about it. If it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your normal time. Do not take 2 doses at the same time or extra doses. Do not change the dose or stop this drug. This could cause seizures. Talk with your doctor.

What precautions should I take when taking Divalproex Sodium :

If you have an allergy to valproic acid or any other part of this drug. Tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs. Make sure to tell about the allergy and what signs you had. This includes telling about rash; hives; itching; shortness of breath; wheezing; cough; swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat; or any other signs. If you have liver disease. If you are pregnant or may be pregnant. If you are breast-feeding.

When do I need to seek medical help

If you think there was an overdose, call your local poison control center or ER right away. Signs of a very bad reaction to the drug. These include wheezing; chest tightness; fever; itching; bad cough; blue or gray skin color; seizures; or swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat. Very bad belly pain. Very upset stomach or throwing up. Not able to eat. Dark urine or yellow skin or eyes. Feeling very tired or weak. Any rash. Side effect or health problem is not better or you are feeling worse.

Can I take Divalproex Sodium with other medicines:

Sometimes drugs are not safe when you take them with certain other drugs and food. – Taking them together can cause bad side effects. – Be sure to talk to your doctor about all the drugs you take.

Are there any food restrictions

Avoid Alcohol

How do I store Divalproex Sodium :

Oral: Store it at controlled room temperature (15-30°C).

Pregnancy Category

Category D : There is positive evidence of human fetal risk based on adverse reaction data from investigational or marketing experience or studies in humans, but potential benefits may warrant use of the drug in pregnant women despite potential risks.

Therapeutic Classification

Antipsychotics, Anticonvulsants, Antimigraine Preparations