Valkem OD 1000 mg Tablet

Composition of Valkem OD 1000 mg Tablet

Valkem OD 1000 mg Tablet contains Divalproex (1000mg). It belongs to the Anticonvulsant (valproate; GABA enhancer) class of medicines.

Uses of Valkem OD 1000 mg Tablet

Treatment of epilepsy/seizure disorders (generalised and partial seizures); management of bipolar disorder (acute mania and maintenance) as prescribed; prevention of migraine (when prescribed)

Key benefits

• Controls and prevents seizures
• Helps stabilize mood in bipolar disorder
• Helps reduce frequency of migraine attacks (when prescribed)
• Once-daily prolonged-release dosing for better adherence

How Valkem OD 1000 mg Tablet works

Valproate increases the levels of the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA and also modulates sodium and calcium channels in the brain. This stabilizes neuronal firing and helps prevent seizures and mood swings.

How to take Valkem OD 1000 mg Tablet

Tablet (OD/prolonged-release): take exactly as prescribed, usually once daily at the same time. Swallow whole with water; do not crush/chew/split prolonged-release tablets. 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

If you miss a dose of Valkem OD 1000mg Tablet, 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 Valkem OD 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 Valkem OD 1000 mg Tablet

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

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

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 Valkem OD 1000 mg Tablet

Warnings and precautions

Prescription-only medicine. Risk of serious liver injury (especially in first 6 months), pancreatitis, and hyperammonaemia—seek urgent care for severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, jaundice, confusion, unusual bruising/bleeding. May cause drowsiness—avoid driving if affected. Monitor liver function tests, platelet count and valproate levels as advised. Use caution in patients with liver disease, bleeding disorders, mitochondrial disorders (POLG), and in children. Do not stop abruptly without medical advice.

Interactions with other medicines

Alcohol (additive sedation), lamotrigine (increases lamotrigine levels/risk of rash), carbamazepine/phenytoin/phenobarbital (altered levels), topiramate (risk of hyperammonaemia/encephalopathy), aspirin/NSAIDs and warfarin (increased bleeding risk), rifampicin (reduced valproate levels), antidepressants/benzodiazepines (additive CNS depression)

How to store Valkem OD 1000 mg Tablet

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

Expert advice for Valkem OD 1000 mg Tablet

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 Valkem OD 1000mg Tablet, 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 Valkem OD 1000mg Tablet if you are pregnant or planning to conceive or breastfeed.

Manufacturer and class

Manufacturer:

ALKEM LAB

Therapeutic class:

Antiepileptic

Drug class:

Anticonvulsant (valproate; GABA enhancer)

Chemical class:

Methyl- branched fatty acids