EPILIM (SODIUM VALPROATE)

Drug: Sodium valproate

Brand name: Epilim

Use: anticonvulsant (epilepsy)

Sodium valproate is used to control seizures, particularly in primary generalised epilepsy. It may be used in all forms of epilepsy.

Sodium valproate may also be used in mania (as a mood stabiliser), migraine prevention, and trigeminal neuralgia.

Cautions

- liver impairment
- kidney impairment
- pregnancy
- breast-feeding
- SLE

Liver function should be tested before treatment commences and monitored for 6 months after starting treatment.

- acute liver disease
- porphyria

Side effects include:
- gastric irritation
- nausea
- impaired liver function

Less common:
- tremor & poor balance
- liver failure
- pancreatitis
- blood disorders