Desval Er 1 Gm Tablet (10 Tab)

DESVAL ER 1 GM TABLET

Name

• Brand Name: Desval ER
• Common Name: Divalproex

Composition Desval ER 1 GM Tablet contains 1000 mg of Divalproex as its active ingredient. Divalproex functions as an anticonvulsant by increasing the levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain and stabilizing its electrical activity, which helps to reduce the occurrence of seizures and manic episodes.

Uses Desval ER 1 GM Tablet is primarily used to manage various medical conditions, including:

• Epilepsy/Seizures: It is prescribed to control different types of seizures, such as complex partial seizures and simple and complex absence seizures.
• Bipolar Disorder: It helps in managing manic episodes associated with bipolar disorder, stabilizing mood swings and promoting emotional balance.
• Migraine Prevention: It is also used to prevent migraine headaches, reducing their frequency and intensity.

Dosage and Administration

• Take Desval ER 1 GM Tablet exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
• Swallow the tablet whole with water; do not break, chew, or crush it, as this can affect how it works.
• It can be taken with or without food, but taking it with food may help minimize stomach upset.
• For optimal results, it is recommended to take the medicine at the same time each day to maintain a consistent level in your body.
• Do not stop taking the medication abruptly, as this can worsen your condition or trigger seizures.

Side Effects Common side effects may include:

• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, constipation
• Dizziness, drowsiness, tremors, unsteadiness, headache
• Hair loss, weight gain, increased appetite
• Blurred vision, decreased body temperature, bruising

More serious, less common side effects can include:

• Liver injury
• Anemia (low red blood cell count)
• Decreased sodium levels in the blood
• Hypersensitivity reactions
• Deafness, urinary incontinence
• Pain during periods
• Suicidal thoughts or behaviors (rare, usually with long-term use)
• Osteoporosis (reduced bone mass) with long-term usage

Precautions

• Allergies: Do not take Desval ER if you are allergic to Divalproex or any other ingredients in the tablet.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: This medication is contraindicated during pregnancy due to the risk of birth defects. Women of childbearing age should use effective contraception. It is also not recommended for breastfeeding women.
• Alcohol: Avoid consuming alcohol while taking this medicine, as it can intensify side effects and increase the risk of seizures.
• Medical Conditions: Inform your doctor if you have liver disease, kidney problems, heart issues, mitochondrial disorders, urea cycle disorders, depression, or a history of suicidal thoughts.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: This medicine may cause dizziness or drowsiness; avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you understand how it affects you.
• Monitoring: Regular blood tests may be required to monitor liver function, kidney function, and blood counts.
• Weight Management: Monitor your weight regularly, as this medication can lead to weight gain.
• Pediatric and Geriatric Use: Caution is advised for children under 2 years due to a higher risk of liver intoxication. Older patients should be under medical supervision as they may be more susceptible to side effects.

Storage Store Desval ER 1 GM Tablet in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight, at temperatures below 30°C. Keep it out of the sight and reach of children.

What is DESVAL ER 1 GM TABLET used for?

DESVAL ER 1 GM TABLET is primarily used to treat epilepsy and manage seizures. It is also prescribed for the treatment of manic episodes associated with bipolar disorder and for the prevention of migraine headaches. In some cases, it may also be used for trigeminal neuralgia.

How does DESVAL ER 1 GM TABLET work?

This medicine contains Divalproex, which works by decreasing excessive and abnormal nerve activity in the brain. It achieves this by increasing the levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a natural chemical that helps block nerve transmissions and provides a calming effect, thereby stabilizing electrical activity in the brain and reducing the likelihood of seizures, mood swings, and migraines.

What is the usual dosage for DESVAL ER 1 GM TABLET?

The dosage and frequency of DESVAL ER 1 GM TABLET are determined by your doctor based on your specific condition. It is crucial to follow your doctor's instructions regarding dosage and duration. The tablet should be swallowed whole, without chewing, crushing, or breaking it. It can be taken with or without food, but for optimal results, it is recommended to take it at the same time each day. It may take a couple of weeks to become fully effective.

What are the possible side effects of DESVAL ER 1 GM TABLET?

Common side effects may include headache, blurred vision, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, tiredness, unsteadiness, bruising, decreased body temperature, sleepiness, tremors, hair loss, weight gain, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. If these side effects persist or become bothersome, consult your doctor. More serious side effects, such as skin rash, redness, signs of liver problems (yellowing of skin/eyes, dark urine, stomach pain), or suicidal thoughts, should be reported to your doctor immediately. Long-term use can also lead to bone problems like osteoporosis.

Is DESVAL ER 1 GM TABLET safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

DESVAL ER 1 GM TABLET is generally considered unsafe and contraindicated during pregnancy due to a definite risk of birth defects. Women of childbearing age are advised to use effective contraception while taking this medication. During breastfeeding, caution is advised as small quantities of the medicine may pass into breast milk. It is essential to consult your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to conceive, or breastfeeding.

Can DESVAL ER 1 GM TABLET be taken with other medications?

Yes, DESVAL ER 1 GM TABLET can be taken alone or in combination with other medicines. However, it is vital to inform your doctor about all medications, supplements, or herbal preparations you are currently taking, as some medicines can interact with Divalproex. Examples of interacting medications include aspirin, certain antibiotics, blood thinners like warfarin, and medications that affect liver enzymes (e.g., phenytoin, carbamazepine, phenobarbital).

What precautions should be taken while using DESVAL ER 1 GM TABLET?

Inform your doctor about any pre-existing medical conditions, such as heart problems, kidney or liver disease, depression, suicidal thoughts, mitochondrial disorders, or urea cycle disorders. Avoid consuming alcohol while taking this medicine as it can worsen side effects and increase the risk of seizures. You should also avoid driving or operating heavy machinery if you experience dizziness or drowsiness. Regular blood tests, especially for liver function, may be required during treatment. Do not stop taking the medication abruptly, as this can worsen your condition or trigger seizures.

What happens if a dose of DESVAL ER 1 GM TABLET is missed?

If you miss a dose of DESVAL ER 1 GM TABLET, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed one, as this can be dangerous and worsen your condition. Consistency in taking your medication is important for its effectiveness.

How should DESVAL ER 1 GM TABLET be stored?

DESVAL ER 1 GM 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 10°C and 25°C). Always keep this medicine out of the reach of children and pets.