Dival 500mg Tablet SR
Manufacturer
Edinburgh Pharmaceuticals
Salt Composition
Divalproex (500mg)
Key Information
Short Description
Dival 500mg Tablet SR is a medicine used to treat epilepsy, prevent and control seizures (fits), and prevent migraines. It is also used in the prevention of bipolar disorder.
Dosage Form
Tablet SR
Introduction
Dival 500mg 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. Dival 500mg 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
Dival 500mg Tablet SR may cause excessive drowsiness with alcohol.
Breastfeeding Warning
Dival 500mg 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
Dival 500mg 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
Dival 500mg 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.
Related Medicines
Frequently asked questions
What happens if I stop taking Dival 500mg Tablet SR?
If you need to stop taking Dival 500mg Tablet SR, it's essential to do so under the guidance of your doctor or a specialist. Stopping the medication abruptly can lead to a recurrence of symptoms or cause side effects like irritability, anxiety, dizziness, and tremors.
Is Dival 500mg Tablet SR a mood stabilizer?
Yes, Dival 500mg Tablet SR can be used as a mood stabilizer in some cases. It is given to patients who experience rapid changes in their mood. The medication helps calm the hyperactivity of the brain during these mood swings.
Can Dival 500mg Tablet SR cause weight gain?
Yes, taking Dival 500mg Tablet SR may lead to weight gain due to increased hunger. To prevent this, it's recommended to maintain a healthy diet and regular exercise routine. If you have concerns about weight gain, consult your doctor for advice.
Does Dival 500mg Tablet SR make you sleepy?
Yes, Dival 500mg Tablet SR may cause drowsiness or sleepiness. To ensure your safety, avoid driving or engaging in tasks that require mental focus until you know how the medication affects you.
Does Dival 500mg Tablet SR cause hair loss?
Taking Dival 500mg Tablet SR may result in temporary hair loss, which is often related to the dosage. If hair loss persists or bothers you, consult your doctor for further guidance.
Can Dival 500mg Tablet SR damage my liver?
Yes, Dival 500mg Tablet SR can cause liver damage, especially within the first six months of treatment. Be aware of symptoms like nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, dark-colored urine, facial swelling, and yellowing of the skin or eyes. Your doctor may recommend regular liver function tests during this period, particularly if you're at risk or have a history of liver disease.
Can I take alcohol while I am taking Dival 500mg Tablet SR?
It's recommended to avoid consuming alcohol while on treatment with Dival 500mg Tablet SR. Alcohol can exacerbate drowsiness, light-headedness, or dizziness associated with the medication.
What are the laboratory tests recommended prior to taking Dival 500mg Tablet SR?
Before starting treatment with Dival 500mg Tablet SR, your doctor may suggest blood tests to check for blood cell count, platelet count, bleeding time, and coagulation. These tests can help identify potential risks of spontaneous bruising or bleeding. Additionally, liver function tests are recommended before therapy, especially during the first six months, particularly in high-risk patients or those with a history of liver disease.
What should be done if I start experiencing abdominal pain, nausea and anorexia?
If you experience severe abdominal pain along with nausea and vomiting, it may indicate pancreatitis. Immediately consult your doctor, who may perform serum amylase tests to confirm the diagnosis. If the test shows positive results for pancreatitis, the medication should be stopped immediately.
How to check for overdose of Dival 500mg Tablet SR?
Overdose symptoms of Dival 500mg Tablet SR include headaches, blurred vision due to constricted pupils, weak or 'floppy' muscles, fits (seizures), loss of consciousness, behavioral changes, and breathing difficulties such as fast breathing, shortness of breath, or chest pain. If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate medical assistance.
