Sodium Valproate

Please note: these are basic guidelines, refer to your doctor for a professional medical opinion.

Popular brand names:

Convulex,Epilim, Epilizine, Navalpro, Valeptic

Drug group:

Anticonvulsant drug

Prescription needed?

Yes

What does it do?

• Sodium valproate is effective in treating all forms of epilepsy
• It is particularly useful for children with atonic epilepsy (the sudden relaxing of the muscles throughout the body) or absence seizures (during which the person appears to be daydreaming) - as it does not usually have a sedative effect
• It is also sometimes used for the treatment of bipolar disorder or manic episodes

How does it work?

The action of sodium valproate is similar to that of other anticonvulsants – it reduces excess electrical discharges in the brain that can lead to epileptic seizures.

How should it be used?

• Sodium valproate should be taken after food
• You should try stay on the same brand of sodium valproate

What is the typical dosage?

Your doctor will recommend a dosage tailored to your need, but typically:

Total daily dose for adults: 600mg–2.5g daily (adjusted as necessary), taken 1–2 x daily

How quickly will it start to work?

Within 60 minutes                 
        

How long will the effects last?

12 hours or more                       
            

When should I stop using it?

Do not stop the drug without consulting your doctor.            
                    

Is it safe for prolonged use?

No problems expected. There is a very small risk of liver damage, but this is more likely in the first 6 months of use. Regular blood tests may be needed.

What are the possible side effects?

The following have been reported:

• Uncommon: nausea, indigestion, weight gain, temporary hair loss, irregular or absent menstrual periods
• Rare: liver failure, platelet and bleeding abnormalities
• Report to your doctor before taking your next dose if you experience: rash, drowsiness, jaundice, unusual bruising or bleeding

What other considerations are important?

Dosage may be adjusted by your doctor under certain conditions.

• Certain health problems: liver/kidney problems, porphyria, any blood disorders, current/planned pregnancy
• Other medicines: other anticonvulsant drugs, lamotrigine, antidepressants, antipsychotics, clarithromycin, erythromycin, zidovudine, carbapenems, mefloquine, chloroquine
• Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Not generally recommended in pregnancy but if essential extra folic acid supplements must also be taken. Normal doses are unlikely to adversely affect the breast-fed baby.
• Children: Reduced dose according to weight of child
• Over 60: Reduced dose may be necessary
• Driving and hazardous work: Caution, your underlying condition and the effects of the drug may make these dangerous
• Alcohol:Avoid, enhanced sedative effects