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Sodium Valproate
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Sodium Valproate
CAS number 1069-66-5
DRUG DESCRIPTION
DOSAGE
SIDE EFFECTS
PRECAUTIONS
INTERACTION
CONSUMER INFORMATION
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CONSUMER INFORMATION
Sodium Valproate CAS number 1069-66-5
WARNING: This medication has rarely caused serious (sometimes fatal)
liver problems. Children less than 2 years old are more likely to develop
severe liver problems, especially if they have metabolic problems, severe
seizures with mental retardation, brain disease (organic) or if they take
more than one drug for seizures. If valproate sodium is being used in
patients with these conditions, then it should not be taken with additional
anti-seizure medications. Liver function tests should be performed before
and during treatment. Early signs of serious liver problems include
vomiting, unusual tiredness, swelling of the face or loss of seizure control
in patients with seizure disorder. Tell your doctor immediately if you
develop any of these symptoms. This medication has rarely caused severe
(sometimes fatal) disease of the pancreas (pancreatitis). This problem may
occur at any time during therapy and may worsen quickly
USES: This medication is used to treat seizure disorders. It works by
restoring the balance of certain natural substances (neurotransmitters) in
the brain.
HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor.
You may take it with food if stomach upset occurs. Use a specially marked
device to measure the correct amount of medication. Valproate sodium syrup
should not be mixed with carbonated drinks because it may irritate the mouth
and throat Dosage is based on your weight, medical condition, and response
to therapy. Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit
from it. Remember to use it at the same time each day to keep the amount of
medication in your blood constant. If this medication is used for seizures,
do not stop taking it without consulting your doctor. Your condition may
become worse if the drug is suddenly stopped. Your dose may need to be
gradually decreased
SIDE EFFECTS: Diarrhea, dizziness, drowsiness, hair loss,
blurred/double vision, change in menstrual periods, ringing in the ears,
shakiness (tremor), unsteadiness, weight changes may occur. If any of these
effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Tell
your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur:
mental/mood changes, signs of infection (e.g., fever, persistent sore
throat). Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious
side effects occur: chest pain, easy bruising/unexplained bleeding,
fast/irregular heartbeat, swelling of hands/feet, uncontrolled eye movement
(nystagmus). Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely
but very serious side effects occur: dark urine, persistent nausea/vomiting,
severe stomach/abdominal pain, yellowing eyes or skin. Severe (sometimes
fatal) brain disorder (encephalopathy) has rarely occurred, particularly in
patients with certain metabolic disorders (urea cycle disorders). Tell your
doctor immediately if you develop unexplained weakness and vomiting or
sudden mental changes. A serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely,
but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious
allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness,
trouble breathing
PRECAUTIONS: See also Warning section. Before taking valproate
sodium, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to
valproic acid or divalproex sodium; or if you have any other allergies. This
medication should not be used if you have certain medical conditions. Before
using this drug, consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have: liver
disease, pancreatitis, certain metabolic disorders (urea cycle disorders).
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical
history, especially of: alcohol abuse, bleeding problems, brain disease
(dementia), kidney disease, low body water (dehydration), poor nutrition.
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist that you are taking this
medication. This drug may make you dizzy, drowsy, or cause blurred vision.
Use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness or clear vision such
as driving or using machinery. Do not engage in such activities until you
know how this medication affects you. Limit alcoholic beverages.
MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If
it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your
usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
STORAGE: Store the US product at room temperature below 86 degrees F
(30 degrees F) away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom.
Store the Canadian product at room temperature between 59-77 degrees F
(15-25 degrees C) away from light and moisture. Do not store in the
bathroom. Keep all medicines away from children and pets.
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