Dicorate Er 1 Gm Tablet (10 Tab)

DICORATE ER 1 GM TABLET is an extended-release medication primarily used to manage various neurological and psychiatric conditions. It is manufactured by SUN PHARMA LABORATORIES LTD.

Name

• Brand Name: DICORATE ER 1 GM TABLET
• Common Name: Divalproex Sodium (Extended Release)

Composition

• Active Ingredient: Divalproex Sodium 1000 mg

Uses

DICORATE ER 1 GM TABLET is prescribed for a range of conditions, including:

• Epilepsy/Seizures: It is used to treat various forms of epilepsy, including complex partial seizures (alone or with other seizure types) and simple and complex absence seizures. It works by decreasing abnormal and excessive nerve activity in the brain.
• Bipolar Disorder: It helps manage manic episodes associated with bipolar disorder by stabilizing brain activity and mood.
• Migraine Prevention: It is also used to prevent migraine headaches.

Dosage and Administration

• DICORATE ER 1 GM TABLET should be taken orally as advised by a healthcare professional.
• It can be taken with or without food, but for best results, it should be taken at the same time each day to maintain consistent levels in the body.
• The tablet should be swallowed whole; it should not be chewed, crushed, or broken, as this can affect its extended-release properties.
• The dosage and frequency are determined by the doctor based on the patient's medical condition and response to treatment.
• It is crucial not to stop taking this medication suddenly, as it can worsen seizures.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

• Drowsiness, dizziness, headache
• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain
• Weight gain, increased or loss of appetite
• Hair loss
• Tremors, weakness
• Blurred or double vision

Serious side effects, though rare, can include:

• Liver damage/problems
• Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)
• Thrombocytopenia (low blood platelet count)
• Hyperammonemia (high ammonia levels in the blood)
• Suicidal thoughts or behavior
• Multi-organ hypersensitivity reactions

Consult a doctor if any side effects persist or worsen.

Precautions

• Allergies: Do not take if allergic to Divalproex Sodium or any components of the tablet.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: It is contraindicated in pregnancy due to the risk of birth defects. Women of childbearing age should use effective contraception. Consult a doctor if breastfeeding, as Divalproex may pass into breast milk.
• Liver/Kidney Conditions: Caution is advised in patients with liver problems, significant hepatic impairment, or kidney disease. Regular liver function tests are recommended.
• Urea Cycle Disorders: Contraindicated in patients with urea cycle disorders.
• Mitochondrial Disorders: Contraindicated in patients with known mitochondrial disorders.
• Alcohol: Avoid alcohol consumption as it can increase drowsiness and dizziness and may increase the risk of seizures.
• Driving and Machinery: This medicine may cause drowsiness, dizziness, or blurred vision; avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking, including hormonal contraceptives, as DICORATE ER can interact with various drugs like lamotrigine, metoclopramide, warfarin, ethinyl estradiol, and imipenem.

Storage

• Store in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight.
• Keep the medicine out of the sight and reach of children.
• Store below 30°C.

Here are the most frequently asked questions about DICORATE ER 1 GM TABLET:

What is Dicorate ER 1 GM Tablet used for?

Dicorate ER 1 GM Tablet is primarily used to manage various types of seizures, including complex partial seizures, and simple and complex absence seizures, often associated with epilepsy. It is also prescribed for managing manic episodes linked with bipolar disorder and for the prevention of migraine headaches.

How does Dicorate ER 1 GM Tablet work?

This medicine contains Divalproex, which works by increasing the levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. GABA is a neurotransmitter that helps stabilize electrical activity in the brain, thereby reducing the occurrence of seizures, manic episodes, and migraine headaches.

What is the usual dosage of Dicorate ER 1 GM Tablet?

The dosage of Dicorate ER 1 GM Tablet is determined by a doctor based on the individual's condition and response to treatment. For epilepsy, an initial dose may be 10-15 mg/kg/day, increasing incrementally up to a maximum of 60 mg/kg/day. For acute manic episodes of bipolar disorder, an initial dose might be 25 mg/kg once daily, not exceeding 60 mg/kg/day. For migraine prevention, an initial dose of 500 mg once daily for a week, potentially increasing to 1000 mg once daily, may be prescribed. Dicorate ER is an extended-release tablet designed for once-a-day oral administration.

What are the possible side effects of Dicorate ER 1 GM Tablet?

Common side effects can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, drowsiness, tremors, hair loss, and weight gain. More serious but less common side effects can include liver damage, pancreatitis, and an increased risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior. If you experience persistent or severe side effects, consult your doctor.

Is Dicorate ER 1 GM Tablet safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Dicorate ER 1 GM Tablet is contraindicated during pregnancy due to definite evidence of risk to the developing baby, including potential for severe birth defects. If you are pregnant or planning to conceive, it is crucial to discuss this with your doctor. During breastfeeding, small quantities of the medicine may pass into breast milk and could affect the baby. It is recommended that breastfeeding women consult their doctor to understand the potential risks and benefits.

Can Dicorate ER 1 GM Tablet be taken with other medications?

This medicine can interact with several other medications. It may affect or be affected by other anti-epileptic drugs (e.g., phenytoin, carbamazepine), anti-migraine medications, antidepressants, painkillers, blood thinners like warfarin, medicines used for HIV infection (zidovudine), certain anti-cancer medicines, and drugs used for mental health conditions (e.g., selegiline, diazepam, quetiapine). Always inform your doctor about all medications you are currently taking, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements.

What precautions should be taken while using Dicorate ER 1 GM Tablet?

Avoid consuming alcohol while taking Dicorate ER 1 GM Tablet, as it can cause excessive drowsiness and may enhance certain side effects. Caution is advised for individuals with liver disease (it is unsafe in severe liver disease), mitochondrial disorders, or urea cycle disorders. Regular blood tests, including liver function tests, may be performed by your doctor. Dicorate ER can cause drowsiness and dizziness, so avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you. Do not stop taking this medicine suddenly without consulting your doctor, as it may worsen your condition or trigger seizures.

What happens if a dose of Dicorate ER 1 GM Tablet is missed?

If you miss a dose of Dicorate 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 resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to compensate for a missed one.

How should Dicorate ER 1 GM Tablet be stored?

Dicorate ER 1 GM Tablet should be stored below 30°C, in a cool and dry place. Keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture, and out of the sight and reach of children.