Drug | Tablet

Epilepsy (partial and generalized seizures), Bipolar disorder (acute mania and maintenance, as prescribed), Migraine prophylaxis (prevention)

Valproate increases the level of the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA in the brain and reduces abnormal neuronal firing. It also modulates voltage-gated sodium and calcium channels, helping stabilize electrical activity and prevent seizures/mood swings.

Swallow tablet whole with water; do not crush/chew as it is prolonged-release. Take at the same time each day, preferably with food to reduce stomach upset. Dose and schedule are as prescribed; do not stop suddenly without medical advice.

Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, indigestion, diarrhea, increased appetite, weight gain, tremor, dizziness, drowsiness, hair loss, headache, elevated liver enzymes, thrombocytopenia

Prescription medicine. Risk of severe liver injury (especially in young children and in the first 6 months), pancreatitis, and hyperammonemic encephalopathy—seek urgent care for severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, jaundice, unusual drowsiness/confusion. Teratogenic: high risk of major birth defects and neurodevelopmental disorders; avoid in pregnancy unless no alternative—effective contraception required for women of childbearing potential. Monitor liver function, blood counts, and valproate levels as advised. Use caution in liver disease, bleeding disorders, mitochondrial disorders (e.g., POLG mutations), and in elderly (sedation/falls). Do not discontinue abruptly (seizure risk).

Carbamazepine, phenytoin, phenobarbital, lamotrigine (increased risk of serious rash—dose adjustment needed), topiramate (hyperammonemia), clobazam, benzodiazepines and other CNS depressants, aspirin/salicylates and anticoagulants/antiplatelets (bleeding risk), rifampicin, erythromycin, cimetidine, zidovudine, meropenem/imipenem (carbapenems reduce valproate levels markedly—avoid), alcohol

Store below 25°C, protect from moisture and light, keep in original strip/container and out of reach of children.

Valparin Chrono 200 Tablet (other pack), Valparin 200 Tablet, Encorate Chrono 200 Tablet, Divalproex ER 250 Tablet (equivalent strength differs—doctor to match dose), Valprol CR 200 Tablet