Valance Od 750 (15 Tab)

VALANCE OD 750 (15 TAB) by ABBOTT HEALTHCARE PVT. LTD.

Valance OD 750 Tablet is an anticonvulsant and mood stabilizer primarily used to manage various neurological and psychiatric conditions.

• Composition:

  • Active Ingredient: Divalproex Sodium 750 mg

• Uses: Valance OD 750 is prescribed for the treatment and prevention of several medical conditions:

  • Epilepsy/Seizures: Used to control and prevent various types of seizures, including complex partial seizures, simple and complex absence seizures, and other epileptic seizures.
  • Bipolar Disorder: Manages acute manic or mixed episodes associated with bipolar disorder by stabilizing mood.
  • Migraine Prophylaxis: Prevents migraine headaches, reducing their frequency and intensity.

• Dosage and Administration: Valance OD 750 should be taken exactly as prescribed by a healthcare professional.

  • Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water; do not crush, chew, or break it.
  • It can be taken with or without food, though taking it with meals may help reduce stomach discomfort.
  • Maintain a consistent dosing schedule, often once daily, for optimal results.
  • Dosage may be adjusted based on the patient's condition and response. Do not stop taking it abruptly without consulting your doctor.

• Side Effects: Common side effects may include:

  • Nausea, vomiting, indigestion, abdominal pain
  • Dizziness, drowsiness, headache
  • Tremor, weakness, hair loss
  • Weight gain Serious side effects, though rare, can include liver damage, pancreatitis, suicidal thoughts, bleeding problems, and severe allergic reactions.

• Precautions:

  • Pregnancy: Contraindicated during pregnancy due to a high risk of birth defects. Women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception.
  • Breastfeeding: Consult a doctor, as it may pass into breast milk.
  • Liver/Kidney Disease: Use with caution or avoid in patients with liver problems or urea cycle disorders. Liver function should be monitored.
  • Alcohol: Avoid alcohol consumption as it can increase drowsiness and the risk of side effects.
  • Driving/Operating Machinery: May cause dizziness or drowsiness, so caution is advised.
  • Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all medications to avoid potential interactions with other anti-epileptics, antidepressants, anticoagulants, and more.

• Storage: Store at a controlled room temperature, typically below 30°C (15-30°C), protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.

Here are some frequently asked questions about VALANCE OD 750:

What is VALANCE OD 750 used for?

VALANCE OD 750 (Divalproex sodium) is primarily used to prevent and control various types of seizures in individuals with epilepsy. It is also prescribed for the treatment of manic episodes associated with bipolar disorder and for the prevention of migraine headaches.

How does VALANCE OD 750 work?

VALANCE OD 750 works by increasing the levels of a natural chemical in the brain called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). This helps to reduce excessive and abnormal nerve activity, producing a calming effect that controls seizures and stabilizes mood. It may also inhibit GABA catabolism, potentiate postsynaptic GABA responses, and affect potassium channels or directly stabilize membranes.

What is the usual dosage for VALANCE OD 750?

The dosage of VALANCE OD 750 is individualized by a doctor based on the patient's condition and response to treatment. For adults, an initial dose of 750 mg/day in divided doses is sometimes recommended, with increases made as rapidly as possible to achieve the lowest effective therapeutic dose, not exceeding 60 mg/kg/day. For complex partial seizures, therapy may start at 10-15 mg/kg/day, increasing by 5-10 mg/kg/day at weekly intervals, up to a maximum of 60 mg/kg/day. For migraine prevention, a common starting dose is 500 mg once daily for one week, which may then be increased to 1000 mg once daily. As an extended-release (OD) formulation, it is typically administered once daily. The tablet should be swallowed whole and not crushed or chewed. It can be taken with or without food, but taking it with food may help reduce gastrointestinal upset.

What are the possible side effects of VALANCE OD 750?

Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, indigestion, abdominal pain, dizziness, drowsiness, headache, weakness, tremor, fatigue, loss of coordination, diarrhea, hair loss, weight gain, and rash. More serious but less common side effects can include liver damage (especially within the first six months of treatment), pancreatitis, high ammonia levels in the blood (hyperammonemia), suicidal thoughts or behavior, and severe skin reactions. Long-term use may also contribute to osteoporosis (reduced bone mass). If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, or notice yellowing of the skin/eyes, dark urine, or unusual bruising/bleeding, consult your doctor immediately.

Is VALANCE OD 750 safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

VALANCE OD 750 is generally not recommended during pregnancy (categorized as D) due to a significant risk of birth defects, including neural tube defects, and potential impact on the baby's IQ. Women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception while taking this medication. The medicine can pass into breast milk, so caution is advised, and it is important to consult your doctor before breastfeeding while on this medication.

Can VALANCE OD 750 be taken with other medications?

VALANCE OD 750 can interact with several other medications. It's crucial to inform your doctor about all prescription and over-the-counter drugs, as well as herbal supplements you are taking. Significant interactions can occur with other anti-epileptic drugs (e.g., carbamazepine, phenytoin, lamotrigine), antidepressants (like SSRIs), anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin), oral contraceptives, certain antibiotics (e.g., rifampicin, meropenem), cimetidine, and salicylates. Alcohol should be avoided while taking VALANCE OD 750 as it can enhance central nervous system depression and intensify side effects.

What precautions should be taken while on VALANCE OD 750?

Several precautions are important when taking VALANCE OD 750. You should avoid consuming alcohol as it can increase drowsiness and other side effects. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery if you experience dizziness or drowsiness. Inform your doctor about any history of liver disease, kidney problems, urea cycle disorders, pancreatitis, bleeding disorders, depression, suicidal thoughts, or mitochondrial disease. Regular monitoring of liver function tests and blood counts (especially platelets) is important, particularly during the initial 6 months of therapy. Report any unusual bruising, bleeding, skin rashes, jaundice, lethargy, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea to your doctor immediately. Do not stop taking the medication abruptly, as this can lead to an increase in seizure frequency. This medication may also cause false-positive results for urine ketone tests and can increase sensitivity to the sun, so wear protective clothing and sunscreen outdoors.

What happens if a dose of VALANCE OD 750 is missed?

If you miss a dose of VALANCE OD 750, 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 compensate for the missed one. Missing doses can trigger seizures or worsen your condition.

How should VALANCE OD 750 be stored?

VALANCE OD 750 should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep it out of the reach and sight of children and pets. The typical storage temperature is at controlled room temperature, generally between 15°C to 30°C. Discard any unused medicine properly.