Valex CR 500

Indications of Valex CR Vaiproate

Valex CR Vaiproate (Sodium Valproate) is prescribed for the management of various types of epilepsy, including:

• Partial Seizures
• Absence Seizures (Petit Mal)
• Generalized Tonic-Clonic Seizures (Grand Mal)
• Myoclonic Seizures
• Atonic Seizures
• Mixed Seizures involving absence attacks
• Prophylaxis for Febrile Convulsions
• Post-Traumatic Epilepsy Prevention

In addition, Valex CR Vaiproate is used for:

• Bipolar Disorder Treatment
• Migraine Prophylaxis

Note: Always follow a registered medical professional’s advice when taking this medication.

Composition of Valex CR Vaiproate

Valex CR Vaiproate is available in several forms with varying strengths:

• Sodium Valproate Tablet: Each enteric-coated tablet contains 200 mg Sodium Valproate BP.
• Sodium Valproate Syrup: Each 5 ml contains 200 mg Sodium Valproate BP.
• Sodium Valproate Controlled Release 200 mg Tablet: Each tablet contains 200 mg Sodium Valproate (composed of 133.2 mg Sodium Valproate BP & 58 mg Valproic Acid BP).
• Sodium Valproate Controlled Release 300 mg Tablet: Each tablet contains 300 mg Sodium Valproate (composed of 199.8 mg Sodium Valproate BP & 87 mg Valproic Acid BP).
• Sodium Valproate Controlled Release 500 mg Tablet: Each tablet contains 500 mg Sodium Valproate (composed of 333 mg Sodium Valproate BP & 145 mg Valproic Acid BP).
• Sodium Valproate Injection: Each 5 ml vial contains 500 mg Sodium Valproate BP (equivalent to Valproic Acid).

Pharmacological Action of Valex CR Vaiproate

Valex CR Vaiproate contains Sodium Valproate, a potent anti-epileptic agent that works across a broad spectrum of seizures. Although the precise mechanism remains unclear, it’s believed that the drug’s effectiveness is linked to increased levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain.

Dosage & Administration

Oral Dosage:
Valex CR Vaiproate tablets are typically administered once or twice a day, and syrup is recommended in divided doses.

For Epilepsy:

• Adults: Start with 600 mg daily in 2 divided doses, preferably after meals. Increase by 200 mg daily every 3 days, up to a maximum of 2.5 g daily. Usual maintenance dose is 1-2 g daily (20-30 mg/kg daily).
• Children (over 20 kg): Start with 400 mg daily in divided doses, titrate as needed, with a maximum of 35 mg/kg daily.
• Children (up to 20 kg): Begin with 20 mg/kg daily in divided doses.

For Febrile Convulsions:

• Children: Administer 20-30 mg/kg/day in 3 divided doses.

For Bipolar Disorder:

• Adults: Initial dose of 600 mg daily (20-30 mg/kg/day) in 2-3 divided doses. Maintenance dose typically ranges from 1000-2000 mg daily.

For Migraine Prevention:

• Adults: Initial dose of 400-600 mg daily, with some patients requiring 1000-1500 mg daily for optimal results.

Injection Dosage:

• Adults: Slow intravenous injection of 400-800 mg, up to a maximum of 2500 mg/day depending on body weight (up to 10 mg/kg).
• Children: Initial dose of 20-30 mg/kg/day, with a maximum of 40 mg/kg/day.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for dosage and administration.

Drug Interactions

Valex CR Vaiproate may inhibit the metabolism of other medications. Significant interactions have been observed with:

• Phenobarbital
• Phenytoin
• Warfarin
• Aspirin

Always consult your doctor before combining Valex CR with other medications.

Contraindications

Valex CR Vaiproate should not be used by individuals who:

• Are hypersensitive to Sodium Valproate or its components.
• Have liver dysfunction.
• Are pregnant or planning to conceive.

Side Effects

While most patients tolerate Valex CR Vaiproate well, some may experience:

• Gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, vomiting, or anorexia (minimized with enteric-coated tablets).
• CNS effects like sedation, tremors, or ataxia (usually manageable by adjusting the dose).
• Rash, hair loss, and increased appetite are occasionally reported.
• Liver enzyme elevation is common, and in rare cases, fulminant hepatitis may occur.
• Hepatic injury, acute pancreatitis, and hyperammonemia have been linked to its use, particularly in children under 2 years and those on multiple anti-epileptic drugs.

Pregnancy & Lactation

• Pregnancy: Sodium Valproate can cross the placenta and is associated with an increased risk of neural tube defects (e.g., anencephaly, spina bifida) when used during the first trimester. Women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant should discuss alternatives with their healthcare provider.
• Breastfeeding: Sodium Valproate is excreted in breast milk, but the risks to the infant are minimal if used appropriately.

Precautions & Warnings

• Regular monitoring of liver function is recommended, especially during the first 6 months of treatment.
• Use caution in patients with renal impairment, systemic lupus erythematosus, or a history of bleeding disorders.
• Sudden withdrawal of therapy may result in worsening seizures; gradual reduction is advised.
• Pregnant women and those of childbearing potential should avoid this medication unless absolutely necessary.

Storage Conditions

Store Valex CR Vaiproate at temperatures below 30°C. Keep the medication away from direct light and out of reach of children.