Sodium valproate is used to control some types of seizures (commonly known as fits). It is also used as a mood stabiliser to help reduce mood swings in bipolar disorder. This medication is also used in other medical conditions such as prevention of migraine headaches.
Like all medications, sodium valproate may cause some possible side effects but not everyone experiences them. Consult your healthcare professional if any of the side effects lasts more than a few days or become severe and bothersome.
The common side effects of sodium valproate include:
In rare cases, this medication may cause the following changes to a person's mental condition, especially in the first few weeks of treatment or during dose changes:
Please inform your doctor as soon as possible, or for your family or caregiver to inform your doctor if you are unable to seek treatment on your own.
Do not stop taking this medication on your own without discussing with your doctor.
It is important to note that your doctor has prescribed this medication as he/she feels you will benefit more from taking this medication over the possible risks that it may cause, which have a low chance of occurring, and most people take this medication without any such problems.
The symptoms of a drug allergy include one or more of the following:
If you experience any of these symptoms, you should stop your medication and see your healthcare professional immediately.
Inform your healthcare professionals if you have the following medical conditions before starting on sodium valproate:
For female patients of child-bearing age: Discuss with your doctor regarding family planning if you will be starting or currently taking sodium valproate.
Consult your healthcare professional immediately if your seizures get worse or become different after you have started this medication.
If you miss a dose, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only the usual dose. Do not double your dose or use extra medicine to make up for the missed dose.
Keep the medication in the original container, tightly closed or sealed.
Pack this medication into a black trash bag and seal it tightly before throwing into the rubbish chute or bin.
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