Dictate 250mg Tablet ER
Manufacturer
Blue Eye Pharmaceuticals
Salt Composition
Divalproex (250mg)
Key Information
Short Description
Dictate 250mg Tablet ER is a medicine used to treat epilepsy, prevent and control seizures (fits), and prevent migraines. It may also be used to treat bipolar disorder.
Dosage Form
Tablet ER
Introduction
Dictate 250mg Tablet ER may be used alone or in combination with other medicines. The dose and how often you need to take it will be decided by your doctor so that you get the right amount to control your symptoms. You can take this medicine with or without food but take it at the same time each day to get the most benefit. It usually takes a couple of weeks to work. It is important to take this medicine regularly and for as long as you are advised even if you feel well. Missing doses may trigger seizures and if you stop your condition may get worse. It should never be stopped suddenly.
Directions for Use
Take this medicine in the dose and duration as advised by your doctor. Swallow it as a whole. Do not chew, crush or break it. Dictate 250mg Tablet ER may be taken with or without food but it is better to take it at a fixed time.
Safety Information
Side Effects
Headache Blurred vision Nausea Vomiting Dizziness Tiredness Unsteadiness Bruising Decreased body temperature
Alcohol Warning
Dictate 250mg Tablet ER may cause excessive drowsiness with alcohol.
Breastfeeding Warning
Dictate 250mg Tablet ER is safe to use during breastfeeding. Human studies suggest that the drug does not pass into the breastmilk in a significant amount and is not harmful to the baby.
Pregnancy Warning
Dictate 250mg Tablet ER is unsafe to use during pregnancy as there is definite evidence of risk to the developing baby. However, the doctor may rarely prescribe it in some life-threatening situations if the benefits are more than the potential risks. Please consult your doctor.
Interacting Medicines
Alprazolam Chlordiazepoxide Clobazam Clonazepam
How it works
Dictate 250mg Tablet ER is an antiepileptic medication. It controls seizures or fits by decreasing the abnormal and excessive activity of the nerve cells in the brain.
Quick Tips
Take your medication regularly as directed by your doctor as missing doses can trigger seizures. It can be taken with or without food but better to take with food to avoid stomach upset. Do not change the brand of your medicine and make sure that you have sufficient amount of medicine present with you. Practice yoga every day. Get enough sleep at nighttime. Limit the use of screen time such as mobile/laptop. Take your medication on time. Monitor your weight during treatment with this medicine as it can cause weight gain.
Related Medicines
Dicorate ER 250 Tablet
Divaa-OD 250 Tablet
Divaa-OD 250 Tablet
Desval ER 250 Tablet
Esdival 250mg Tablet ER
Spikalon DV 250mg Tablet ER
Valnap 250mg Tablet ER
Divopex 250 Tablet ER
Vtrey-ER 250 Tablet
Diavol OD 250mg Tablet ER
Frequently asked questions
What happens if I stop taking Dictate 250mg Tablet ER?
It is not recommended to discontinue Dictate 250mg Tablet ER without consulting your doctor. The dose should be gradually reduced under the supervision of a healthcare professional and stopping abruptly may lead to symptom recurrence, including irritability, anxiety, dizziness, or tremors.
Is Dictate 250mg Tablet ER a mood stabilizer?
Yes, Dictate 250mg Tablet ER can sometimes be used as a mood stabilizer to manage rapid changes in mood. It works by regulating brain activity during mood fluctuations.
Can Dictate 250mg Tablet ER cause weight gain?
Yes, Dictate 250mg Tablet ER can potentially cause weight gain. This might be due to an increased appetite. Regularly monitoring your diet and maintaining a balanced lifestyle by exercising are recommended.
Does Dictate 250mg Tablet ER make me sleepy?
Yes, Dictate 250mg Tablet ER may cause drowsiness. It is crucial to avoid driving or performing tasks that require concentration until you fully understand its effects.
Does Dictate 250mg Tablet ER cause hair loss?
Yes, Dictate 250mg Tablet ER may lead to temporary hair loss. This is generally dose-dependent and usually resolves on its own. If you experience prolonged or significant hair loss, consult your doctor.
Can Dictate 250mg Tablet ER damage my liver?
Yes, Dictate 250mg Tablet ER can potentially cause liver problems. The risk is higher during the initial six months of treatment. Symptoms of liver damage might include nausea or vomiting, loss of appetite, stomach pain, dark urine, facial swelling, yellowing of skin or whites of eyes. Regular monitoring with liver function tests is recommended during the first six months of therapy and specifically for individuals who are at risk or have a history of liver disease.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Dictate 250mg Tablet ER?
It is advised to avoid alcohol consumption while taking Dictate 250mg Tablet ER. Combining these substances may lead to increased drowsiness, dizziness, or lightheadedness.
What laboratory tests are recommended before taking Dictate 250mg Tablet ER?
Before starting Dictate 250mg Tablet ER, your doctor may request blood tests. These include a complete blood count (CBC), including platelet counts and bleeding time tests to monitor for potential bruising or bleeding issues. Liver function tests are also crucial before therapy begins.
What should I do if I start experiencing abdominal pain, nausea, and anorexia?
If you experience sudden severe abdominal pain accompanied by nausea and vomiting, it could be a sign of pancreatitis. Seek immediate medical attention as your doctor may order serum amylase tests to confirm the diagnosis. If the test shows elevated levels of amylase, the medication should be discontinued immediately.
How can I check for Dictate 250mg Tablet ER overdose?
Dictate 250mg Tablet ER overdose may lead to symptoms like headaches, blurry vision due to pupil constriction, decreased reflexes, confusion and fatigue. Additionally, you might experience weakness or muscle limpness, seizures, loss of consciousness, behavioral changes, and difficulty breathing (fast breathing, shortness of breath, chest pain). Seek immediate medical assistance in case of suspected overdose.
