Epilex Chrono 500 mg

Composition of Epilex Chrono 500 mg

Epilex Chrono 500 mg contains Sodium Valproate 500 mg (controlled release/extended release). It belongs to the Valproate anticonvulsant (GABA-enhancing agent) class of medicines.

Uses of Epilex Chrono 500 mg

• Treatment of epilepsy/seizure disorders (generalised and partial seizures)
• prevention of recurrent seizures; may also be used for bipolar disorder (mania) and migraine prophylaxis as prescribed

Key benefits

• Helps control and prevent seizures
• Reduces frequency and severity of epileptic episodes
• Provides sustained drug release for stable control
• May help prevent migraine attacks (as prescribed)
• May help stabilize mood in bipolar disorder (as prescribed)

How Epilex Chrono 500 mg works

Sodium valproate increases levels of the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA in the brain and modulates neuronal ion channels. This stabilizes overactive nerve activity and helps prevent seizures.

How to take Epilex Chrono 500 mg

Oral tablet (controlled release). Take exactly as prescribed, usually once or twice daily at the same time each day; swallow whole—do not crush or chew. Preferably take with food to reduce stomach upset.

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

Take it as soon as you remember. If your next dose is almost due, skip the one you missed — never take two doses together to catch up.

If you take too much

An overdose of this medicine can cause deep unconsciousness, slowed breathing and dangerous heart rhythm disturbance. Do not wait for symptoms to appear — go to the nearest emergency department and take the pack or strip with you.

Side effects of Epilex Chrono 500 mg

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

• Nausea
• vomiting
• stomach pain
• diarrhoea
• dizziness
• drowsiness
• tremor
• headache
• weight gain
• hair loss
• increased appetite

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 Epilex Chrono 500 mg

Warnings and precautions

Prescription-only antiepileptic. Do not stop suddenly (risk of seizures). Serious risks: liver toxicity (especially in young children or with multiple anticonvulsants), pancreatitis, hyperammonemia/encephalopathy, low platelets/bleeding, severe skin reactions. Contraindicated in active liver disease and known mitochondrial disorders (e.g., POLG mutations). Monitor liver function tests and blood counts; use caution in elderly and in patients with bleeding disorders. May cause drowsiness—avoid driving if affected.

Do not take Epilex Chrono if

Not for anyone with a known allergy to this medicine or to any ingredient in the pack. Valproate-containing medicines are contraindicated in pregnancy for epilepsy unless no alternative exists, and in all women of childbearing potential without a pregnancy prevention programme. Several are not suitable in significant liver disease.

Interactions with other medicines

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

How to store Epilex Chrono 500 mg

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

Expert advice for Epilex Chrono 500 mg

Take it at the same times every day; a missed dose is a common trigger for a seizure. Keep a seizure diary and take it to your appointments. Tell your doctor before planning a pregnancy — the regimen may need to be changed well in advance. Do not drive until you meet the legal seizure-free period and your doctor agrees.

Manufacturer and class

Manufacturer:

ABBOTT HEALTHCARE LIMITED

Therapeutic class:

Antiepileptic

Drug class:

Valproate anticonvulsant (GABA-enhancing agent)