Dicorate Er 750 Mg Tablet (10 Tab)

DICORATE ER 750 MG Tablet

DICORATE ER 750 MG Tablet is an extended-release medication manufactured by SUN PHARMA LABORATORIES LTD. It is primarily used as an anticonvulsant and mood stabilizer.

Composition

The tablet contains 750 mg of Divalproex Sodium (extended-release). Divalproex works by increasing the concentration of Gamma-Aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain, a neurotransmitter that helps control seizures and stabilize mood.

Uses

DICORATE ER 750 MG Tablet is prescribed for the management of:

• Epilepsy/Seizures: To control and prevent various types of seizures, including complex partial seizures and primary generalized seizures.
• Bipolar Disorder: To treat manic or mixed episodes associated with bipolar disorder by stabilizing mood.
• Migraine Prophylaxis: To prevent migraine headaches, reducing their frequency and intensity.

Dosage and Administration

This medicine should be taken orally as directed by a healthcare professional. Tablets should be swallowed whole with a glass of water and not crushed or chewed, as this can affect their effectiveness. It can be taken with or without food, but taking it with food may help minimize stomach discomfort. Consistent daily timing is advisable for optimal results. Do not stop taking it suddenly without consulting a doctor, as this may worsen symptoms or trigger seizures.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

• Nausea, vomiting, indigestion, abdominal pain
• Dizziness, drowsiness, weakness, tremor
• Rash, hair loss
• Weight gain

Serious side effects, though rare, can include liver damage (especially within the first six months), pancreatitis, and suicidal thoughts.

Precautions

• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Dicorate ER 750 MG Tablet is contraindicated in pregnancy due to a high risk of birth defects. Consult a doctor if pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding.
• Liver/Kidney Problems: Exercise caution and inform your doctor if you have a history of liver disease, kidney problems, or urea cycle disorders.
• Alcohol: Avoid alcohol consumption as it can increase dizziness and drowsiness.
• Driving/Operating Machinery: This medicine can cause dizziness and drowsiness, so caution is advised when driving or operating heavy machinery.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all ongoing medications, including anti-epileptic drugs, antidepressants, and anticoagulants, as interactions can occur.

Storage

Store at room temperature (15-30°C) in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep out of sight and reach of children and pets.

DICORATE ER 750 MG TABLET contains Divalproex (also known as Divalproex Sodium), an anticonvulsant medicine. It is primarily used to manage various neurological and mood conditions.

What is DICORATE ER 750 MG TABLET used for?

DICORATE ER 750 MG TABLET is primarily used to treat epilepsy and various types of seizures (e.g., simple, complex partial, complex absence seizures). It is also prescribed for the treatment of manic episodes associated with bipolar disorder and for the prevention of migraine headaches.

How does DICORATE ER 750 MG TABLET work?

This medicine works by decreasing the excessive and abnormal nerve activity in the brain. It increases the levels of a natural chemical substance in the brain called Gamma-Aminobutyric acid (GABA), which helps block nerve transmissions and provides a calming effect. This action helps to control seizures, stabilize mood, and reduce migraine frequency.

What is the usual dosage for DICORATE ER 750 MG TABLET?

The dosage of DICORATE ER 750 MG TABLET is determined by your doctor based on your specific condition and response to treatment. It is an extended-release (ER) tablet intended for once-a-day oral administration. For acute manic episodes, an initial dose of 25 mg/kg once daily is common, with a maximum of 60 mg/kg/day. For migraine prophylaxis, a starting dose of 500 mg once daily for one week, then increasing to 1000 mg once daily, is often recommended. For seizures, initial doses typically range from 10-15 mg/kg/day, increasing gradually. The tablet should be swallowed whole and not crushed or chewed. It can be taken with or without food.

What are the possible side effects of DICORATE ER 750 MG TABLET?

Common side effects may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dizziness, drowsiness, headache, tremor, weight gain, hair loss, and diarrhea. More serious, though rare, side effects can include liver damage (symptoms like yellowing of skin/eyes, dark urine, loss of appetite), suicidal thoughts or behavior, low blood platelet count (thrombocytopenia), and high ammonia levels in the blood (hyperammonemia). If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, or notice a skin rash or redness, consult your doctor immediately.

Is DICORATE ER 750 MG TABLET safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

DICORATE ER 750 MG TABLET is generally considered unsafe during pregnancy as there is a definite risk of serious birth defects, such as cleft lip. Women of childbearing potential must use effective contraception while taking this medicine. If you are pregnant, planning to conceive, or become pregnant while on this medication, consult your doctor immediately. Regarding breastfeeding, small quantities of the medicine may pass into breast milk and could affect the baby. It is recommended to consult your doctor before breastfeeding while on this medication, and the infant should be monitored for signs of liver damage.

Can DICORATE ER 750 MG TABLET be taken with other medications?

DICORATE ER 750 MG TABLET can interact with several other medications. It is crucial to inform your doctor about all prescription and non-prescription drugs, supplements, and herbal preparations you are currently taking. Some notable interactions include other anti-epileptic drugs (like carbamazepine, phenytoin, lamotrigine), antidepressants (SSRIs), anticoagulants (like warfarin, which can increase bleeding risk), and certain antibiotics (like Ertapenem, Meropenem, Rifampicin). These interactions can alter the effectiveness of either medication or increase the risk of side effects.

What precautions should be taken while on DICORATE ER 750 MG TABLET?

Avoid consuming alcohol while taking this medicine, as it can increase dizziness, drowsiness, and potentially the risk of seizures. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery if you experience dizziness, drowsiness, or impaired motor skills. Do not stop taking the medication abruptly, as this can worsen your condition or trigger seizures. Inform your doctor if you have a history of liver problems (the medicine is contraindicated in severe liver disease and urea cycle disorders), kidney disease, pancreatitis, bleeding disorders, or if you experience mood changes or suicidal thoughts. Regular blood tests, including liver function tests, may be required during treatment.

What happens if a dose of DICORATE ER 750 MG TABLET is missed?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one, as this can increase the risk of side effects. Missing doses can potentially trigger seizures or worsen your underlying condition.

How should DICORATE ER 750 MG TABLET be stored?

DICORATE ER 750 MG TABLET should be stored in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. The recommended storage temperature is typically below 30°C or between 10ºC to 25ºC. Always keep this medicine out of the sight and reach of children.