Discern 500 OD Tablet SR
Manufacturer
Consern Pharma Limited
Salt Composition
Divalproex (500mg)
Key Information
Short Description
Discern 500 OD Tablet SR 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 SR
Introduction
Discern 500 OD Tablet SR 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. Discern 500 OD Tablet SR 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
Discern 500 OD Tablet SR may cause excessive drowsiness with alcohol.
Breastfeeding Warning
Discern 500 OD Tablet SR 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
Discern 500 OD Tablet SR 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
Discern 500 OD Tablet SR 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. Do not stop taking the medication suddenly without talking to your doctor as it may increase the seizure frequency.
Related Medicines
Frequently asked questions
What should I do if I stop taking Discern 500 OD Tablet SR?
You should not stop taking Discern 500 OD Tablet SR without consulting your doctor. The dose of Discern 500 OD Tablet SR should be reduced gradually and eventually can be stopped under the supervision of a doctor or specialist. Suddenly stopping the medication may lead to recurrence of symptoms or irritability, anxiety, dizziness and tremors.
Is Discern 500 OD Tablet SR a mood stabilizer?
Yes, Discern 500 OD Tablet SR can sometimes be used as a mood stabilizer. It is given in patients who experience rapid changes in their mood. It works by calming the hyperactivity of the brain during mood changes.
Can Discern 500 OD Tablet SR cause weight gain?
Yes, Discern 500 OD Tablet SR may cause weight gain. The gain in weight could be due to an increase in hunger. Keep a check on your diet and exercise regularly to prevent any weight gain. If you are have concerns related to weight gain, consult your doctor.
Does Discern 500 OD Tablet SR make me sleepy?
Yes, Discern 500 OD Tablet SR may make you feel sleepy. Avoid driving or other work that requires mental focus until you know how it affects you.
Does Discern 500 OD Tablet SR cause hair loss?
Yes, Discern 500 OD Tablet SR may cause hair loss. However, it is only for a short time and is usually dose related. Please consult your doctor if the hair loss bothers you or persists for a longer duration.
Can Discern 500 OD Tablet SR damage my liver?
Yes, Discern 500 OD Tablet SR can cause damage to the liver. The risk is more likely to occur during the first 6 months of starting the treatment with Discern 500 OD Tablet SR. Symptoms of liver damage may include nausea or vomiting, loss of appetite, stomach pain, dark coloured urine, facial swelling, yellowing of the skin or white of eyes. Therefore, it is important to have liver function tests done before starting the medicine and. Tests should be done periodically during the first 6 months of therapy, especially in those who are likely to be at risk and those with a prior history of liver disease.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Discern 500 OD Tablet SR?
Avoid alcohol consumption while you are on treatment with Discern 500 OD Tablet SR. Taking alcohol with this medicine may make you feel more drowsy, light headed or dizzy.
What laboratory tests should I have before taking Discern 500 OD Tablet SR?
The doctor may suggest blood tests before starting the treatment with Discern 500 OD Tablet SR. The tests may include: blood cell count, including platelet count, bleeding time and coagulation tests These tests are also advised to avoid any spontaneous bruising or bleeding. In addition to this, liver function tests are advised before therapy. It is recommended to periodically monitor liver function during the first 6 months of therapy, primarily in those who seem most at risk and those with a prior history of liver disease.
What should I do if I experience abdominal pain, nausea and anorexia?
If you experience acute severe abdominal pain along with nausea and vomiting, it may be due to pancreatitis. Immediately consult your doctor in case you experience these symptoms. Your doctor may get your levels of serum amylase checked. In case the test shows positive results for pancreatitis, the medication should be stopped immediately.
How can I check if I have an overdose of Discern 500 OD Tablet SR?
Overdose of Discern 500 OD Tablet SR may cause headaches, blurred eyesight due to pupils of the eyes becoming smaller, lack of reflexes, confusion and tiredness. You may also experience weak or “floppy” muscles, fits (seizures), loss of consciousness, behavioral changes and breathing difficulties such as fast breathing, shortness of breath, or chest pain. Immediate medical assistance is required in case of overdose.
