Valkem OD 1000MG Tab

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)

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.

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.

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

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.

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)

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

Valparin Chrono 1000 Tablet, Encorate Chrono 1000 Tablet, Divalproex ER 1000 Tablet, Valprol CR 1000 Tablet, Valcivir-CR/Valproate CR 1000 Tablet