Divalrate ER 500

Composition of Divalrate ER 500

Divalrate ER 500 contains Divalproex (500mg). It belongs to the Anticonvulsant (valproate) class of medicines.

Uses of Divalrate ER 500

• Treatment of epilepsy/seizure disorders (partial and generalized seizures)
• management of manic episodes associated with bipolar disorder
• prevention of migraine headaches (prophylaxis)

Key benefits

• Controls and prevents seizures
• Helps treat acute mania in bipolar disorder
• Prevents migraine attacks
• Stabilizes abnormal brain electrical activity

How Divalrate ER 500 works

Divalproex sodium dissociates to valproate in the body. Valproate increases brain GABA levels and modulates sodium and calcium channels, stabilizing neuronal firing and reducing abnormal electrical activity.

How to take Divalrate ER 500

Oral extended-release tablet; swallow whole with water (do not crush/chew/split). Take once daily at the same time each day, with or without food (with food if stomach upset). Dose and duration as prescribed; do not stop abruptly.

Take it exactly as your doctor prescribed. Do not change the dose or stop early on your own.

Missed dose and overdose

If you miss a dose

If you miss a dose of Divalrate 500mg Tablet ER, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.

If you take too much

Taking more Divalrate ER than prescribed can be harmful. If you suspect an overdose, contact a doctor or go to the nearest emergency department at once, and carry the pack or strip with you. In India the emergency number is 112.

Side effects of Divalrate ER 500

Most side effects of Divalrate ER are mild and settle as the body adjusts. Reported side effects include:

• Nausea
• vomiting
• abdominal pain
• diarrhea
• indigestion
• increased appetite
• weight gain
• tremor
• dizziness
• drowsiness
• headache
• hair loss
• blurred vision
• low platelet count

Stop the medicine and seek help immediately for a rash, swelling of the face or lips, wheezing or difficulty breathing. Tell your doctor about any side effect that persists or worries you.

Safety advice for Divalrate ER 500

Warnings and precautions

Contraindicated in active liver disease or significant hepatic dysfunction; risk of severe hepatotoxicity (especially in first 6 months), pancreatitis, hyperammonemic encephalopathy, thrombocytopenia and bleeding. Monitor liver function tests, CBC/platelets, and ammonia if symptoms occur. Can cause sedation—use caution while driving. Do not stop suddenly due to seizure risk. Use caution in elderly, renal impairment, and in patients with metabolic/urea-cycle disorders.

Interactions with other medicines

Carbamazepine, phenytoin, phenobarbital, lamotrigine (increased rash risk), topiramate (hyperammonemia), aspirin (increases valproate levels/bleeding), warfarin/anticoagulants (bleeding), benzodiazepines and other CNS depressants (added sedation), alcohol (added CNS depression), rifampicin (reduced levels)

How to store Divalrate ER 500

Store below 25°C in a dry place, protected from light and moisture. Keep in original pack and out of reach of children.

Expert advice for Divalrate ER 500

Take your medication regularly as directed by your doctor, as missing doses can trigger seizures. Take it at the same time every day to maintain consistent levels in your body. It can be taken with or without food; however, consider taking it with food to avoid an upset stomach. Do not change the brand of your medicine, and make sure that you have a sufficient amount of medicine present with you. It may cause dizziness and sleepiness. Do not drive or do anything that requires mental focus until you know how it affects you. Monitor your weight during treatment with this medicine, as it can cause weight gain. Your doctor may get regular blood tests done to monitor how the medication is affecting your body. Inform your doctor if you notice yellowing of the eyes or skin, dark urine, or stomach pain. Avoid consuming alcohol when taking Divalrate 500mg Tablet ER, as it may cause excessive sleepiness or drowsiness. Inform your doctor if you develop any unusual changes in mood or behavior, new or worsening depression, or suicidal thoughts or behavior. Do not take Divalrate 500mg Tablet ER if you are pregnant or planning to conceive or breastfeed.

Manufacturer and class

Manufacturer:

IPCA LABORATORIES LTD`

Therapeutic class:

Antiepileptic / Mood stabilizer / Antimigraine prophylactic

Drug class:

Anticonvulsant (valproate)

Chemical class:

Methyl- branched fatty acids