Divalrate 500mg Tablet ER
Manufacturer
Ipca Laboratories Ltd
Salt Composition
Divalproex (500mg)
Key Information
Short Description
Divalrate 500mg 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
Divalrate 500mg 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. Divalrate 500mg 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
Divalrate 500mg Tablet ER may cause excessive drowsiness with alcohol.
Breastfeeding Warning
Divalrate 500mg 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
Divalrate 500mg 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
Divalrate 500mg 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.
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Frequently asked questions
What should I do if I stop taking Divalrate 500mg Tablet ER?
You should not discontinue Divalrate 500mg Tablet ER without consulting your doctor. Your doctor may recommend a gradual reduction in dosage, and ultimately stopping the medication under their supervision. Stopping the medication abruptly can potentially lead to a resurgence of symptoms or unwanted feelings like irritability, anxiety, dizziness, and tremors.
Can Divalrate 500mg Tablet ER be used as a mood stabilizer?
Yes, Divalrate 500mg Tablet ER can sometimes be used to manage mood swings. It is prescribed for patients experiencing rapid shifts in mood, and it works by calming the heightened brain activity associated with mood changes.
Does Divalrate 500mg Tablet ER cause weight gain?
Yes, Divalrate 500mg Tablet ER may result in weight gain. This increase is typically due to increased hunger. Maintain a balanced diet and engage in regular exercise to minimize any potential weight gain. It's important to discuss any concerns about weight management with your doctor.
Does Divalrate 500mg Tablet ER make me sleepy?
Yes, Divalrate 500mg Tablet ER may induce drowsiness. Avoid driving or engaging in tasks requiring mental focus until you are aware of its effect on your alertness.
Does Divalrate 500mg Tablet ER cause hair loss?
Yes, Divalrate 500mg Tablet ER can potentially lead to temporary hair loss. However, this is usually dose-related and may subside with time. Please consult your doctor if you notice significant hair shedding or if it persists for an extended duration.
Can Divalrate 500mg Tablet ER damage my liver?
Yes, Divalrate 500mg Tablet ER can potentially cause liver injury. The risk of liver damage is higher during the initial six months of treatment. Symptoms may include nausea or vomiting, loss of appetite, stomach pain, discoloration of urine (dark), facial swelling, yellowing of skin or whites of eyes. Regular liver function tests should be performed before starting the medication and then periodically during the first six months of therapy, particularly in those at higher risk and those with a history of liver disease.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Divalrate 500mg Tablet ER?
It's advisable to avoid alcohol consumption while on treatment with Divalrate 500mg Tablet ER. Consuming alcohol can potentially increase drowsiness, lightheadedness, and dizziness.
What laboratory tests are recommended before taking Divalrate 500mg Tablet ER?
Before starting treatment with Divalrate 500mg Tablet ER, your doctor may order blood tests to assess: Complete Blood Count (CBC), including platelet count, bleeding time, and coagulation tests. These tests help ensure you don't have any spontaneous bruising or bleeding concerns.
What should I do if I start experiencing abdominal pain, nausea and anorexia?
Acute, severe abdominal pain along with nausea and vomiting may indicate pancreatitis. If you experience these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention. Your doctor may order a blood test to check serum amylase levels. If the test confirms pancreatitis, discontinue the medication immediately.
How can I detect an overdose of Divalrate 500mg Tablet ER?
Overdose of Divalrate 500mg Tablet ER can result in symptoms like headaches, blurred vision due to pupil constriction, lack of reflexes, confusion and fatigue. You may also experience weakness or decreased muscle tone, seizures, loss of consciousness, behavioral changes, and breathing difficulties (e.g., fast breathing, shortness of breath, chest pain). Immediate medical attention is necessary if you suspect an overdose.
