What are the contraindications of sodium valproate?

25/09/2022

What are the contraindications of sodium valproate?

Valproic acid is contraindicated in patients with hepatic disorders, significant hepatic impairment, hypersensitivity to components of the drug and class of drug, urea cycle disorders, mitochondrial disorders, or suspected disorders in patients <2-year-old, and pregnancy (for migraine headache prophylaxis use of …

What is Convulex tablet used for?

Convulex 500mg Tablet ER is used to treat epilepsy (seizures) and bipolar disorder. It is also used in the prevention of migraines. It has a calming effect on the brain by relaxing the nerves.

What are the contraindications of Epilim?

Epilim Chrono is contraindicated in the following situations: In pregnancy unless there is no suitable alternative treatment (see sections 4.4 and 4.6). In women of childbearing potential unless the conditions of the pregnancy prevention programme are fulfilled (see sections 4.4 and 4.6).

What are the main side effects of sodium valproate?

Common side effects

  • stomach pain, feeling or being sick.
  • diarrhoea.
  • dry or sore mouth, or swollen gums.
  • shakes (tremors) in a part of your body, or unusual eye movements.
  • feeling tired or sleepy.
  • headache.
  • weight gain.
  • thinning hair, or changes to the colour or texture of your hair.

Why valproate is contraindicated in pregnancy?

The use of Sodium valproate (Epilim) is contraindicated in pregnancy due to the risk to the unborn baby (fetus). Congenital malformations have been estimated to affect between 6.7%1 and 12.4%2 of children exposed to Epilim in the womb. The rate of malformations in the general population is 2-3%.

How quickly does sodium valproate work?

Sodium valproate may take several days to show an initial effect and in some cases may take from two to six weeks for maximum effect. Treatment is started with low doses and may be increased over a couple of weeks according to your child’s response.

Can sodium valproate cause high blood pressure?

There are many known side effects of valproate including thrombocytopenia and hepatotoxicity [1]. Cardiovascular side effects are reported in 1–5% of patients taking valproate and include hypertension, tachycardia, and palpitations [2], though hypertensive urgency has not been previously described.

Can sodium valproate make you angry?

The authors point out that as side effects of sodium valproate can include aggression, hyperactivity and behavioural disturbances, then if it is prescribed for the treatment of bipolar disorder with co-occurring behavioural disturbances, it is possible that the medication may make these behaviours worse.