Valance 500 Mg Solution (200 Ml)

VALANCE 500 MG SOLUTION (200 ML)

Name

• Common Name: Valance 500 MG Solution
• Brand Name: Valance
• Manufacturer: Abbott Healthcare Pvt. Ltd.

Composition

• Active Ingredient: Divalproex (500 mg/5 ml)

Uses

VALANCE 500 MG SOLUTION is an anticonvulsant and mood stabilizer primarily prescribed for neurological and psychiatric conditions. It is used for:

• Epilepsy/Seizures:
  • Monotherapy and adjunctive therapy for complex partial seizures that occur in isolation or with other seizure types.
  • Managing simple and complex absence seizures.
  • Controlling excessive electrical activity in the brain to reduce seizures.
• Bipolar Disorder: Management of manic episodes associated with bipolar disorder, with or without psychotic features.
• Migraine Prophylaxis: Prevention of migraine headaches.

Dosage and Administration

• VALANCE 500 MG SOLUTION should be taken orally as recommended by a physician.
• It can be taken with or without food, but consistency in timing (same time each day) is important for effectiveness.
• Shake the solution thoroughly before each use and measure the precise dosage using the provided measuring cup/dosing syringe/dropper.
• Avoid using regular household spoons as they may not accurately measure the dose.
• Typical adult dosage guidance (consult physician for specific dosage):
  • Partial seizures; Primary generalized seizures: Initial dose of 10-15 mg/kg/day in 2-4 divided doses, maximum 60 mg/kg/day.
  • Acute manic episodes of bipolar disorder: Initial dose of 25 mg/kg once daily, maximum 60 mg/kg/day.
  • Migraine prophylaxis: 500 mg once daily for 1 week, up to 1,000 mg once daily.
• Do not stop the medication suddenly without consulting a doctor, as abrupt discontinuation can worsen the condition or trigger seizures.

Side Effects

Common Side Effects:

• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, abdominal cramps.
• Headache, dizziness, sleepiness, weakness, fatigue, unsteadiness.
• Double vision, blurred vision.
• Weight gain or loss, increased or loss of appetite.
• Hair loss, tremor.
• Problems with walking or coordination.
• Skin rash, bruising, decreased body temperature.
• Confusion, anxiety, muscle pain, irregular menstrual periods, ear pain.

Serious Side Effects (Seek immediate medical attention if experienced):

• Bleeding problems: Red or purple spots on the skin, bruising, pain and swelling in the joints due to bleeding, or bleeding from the mouth or nose.
• High ammonia levels in the blood: Feeling tired, vomiting, changes in mental status.
• Low body temperature: Drop to less than 95º F, feeling tired, confusion.
• Allergic reactions: Fever, skin rash, hives, sores in the mouth, blistering and peeling of the skin, swelling of lymph nodes, swelling of the eyes, face, lips, tongue, or throat, trouble swallowing or breathing.
• Pancreatitis: Severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting.
• Suicidal thoughts or behavior.
• Liver damage: Yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark-colored urine, loss of appetite, stomach pain.

Precautions

• Allergies: Contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to Divalproex or any of its ingredients.
• Pregnancy: Use with caution during pregnancy as it may pose a risk to the baby and can increase the risk of birth defects, especially neural tube defects. Do not stop taking without consulting a doctor.
• Breastfeeding: Not recommended for use in breastfeeding women as it passes through breast milk.
• Liver Conditions: Contraindicated in patients with liver disease, significant liver dysfunction, or urea cycle disorders. Liver function tests should be performed before and periodically during treatment.
• Kidney Conditions: Use with caution in patients with kidney problems; dose adjustments may be needed.
• Alcohol Consumption: Avoid alcohol during treatment as it can increase side effects like dizziness and drowsiness.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: This medicine may cause drowsiness, dizziness, and weakness. Avoid activities requiring high mental alertness until you know how it affects you.
• Other Conditions: Use with caution in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus, porphyria, bleeding disorders, depression, suicidal thoughts, metabolic disease, blood disease, decreased albumin, HIV infection, and in elderly patients.
• Interactions: May increase the concentration of lamotrigine, leading to serious skin reactions. Inform your doctor about all medications you are taking.
• Monitoring: Regular blood tests, including liver and kidney functions, are recommended. May alter thyroid function tests.

Storage

• Store at controlled room temperature, between 15-30°C or below 30°C.
• Protect from light and moisture.
• Keep out of the sight and reach of children.
• Do not use this medicine after the expiry date.

VALANCE 500 MG SOLUTION (200 ML) by ABBOTT HEALTHCARE PVT. LTD.: Frequently Asked Questions

VALANCE 500 MG SOLUTION is an anticonvulsant medication that contains Divalproex sodium. It is used to manage various neurological and psychiatric conditions by helping to stabilize electrical activity in the brain.

1. What is VALANCE 500 MG SOLUTION used for?

VALANCE 500 MG SOLUTION is primarily used for the treatment of epilepsy to control and prevent seizures (fits). It is also prescribed for managing manic episodes associated with bipolar disorder and for the prevention of migraine headaches.

2. How does VALANCE 500 MG SOLUTION work?

This medicine contains Divalproex sodium, which works by increasing the levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a natural calming chemical in the brain. By increasing GABA levels, it helps to reduce excessive and abnormal nerve activity, thereby controlling seizures and stabilizing mood. It also blocks sodium ion channels in nerve cells, which are crucial for transmitting electrical impulses, further contributing to its anticonvulsant and mood-stabilizing effects.

3. What is the usual dosage for VALANCE 500 MG SOLUTION?

The dosage of VALANCE 500 MG SOLUTION is determined by your doctor and can vary based on individual factors such as age, the severity of the condition, and response to treatment. It is usually taken orally, with or without food, and the bottle should be shaken well before each use. It is important to use a measuring cup or dosing syringe to ensure accurate dosage and to take the medicine at the same time each day for optimal effectiveness.

4. What are the possible side effects of VALANCE 500 MG SOLUTION?

Common side effects may include drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, headache, weight gain, tremors, and increased or loss of appetite. Some patients might also experience back pain, confusion, blurred vision, or hair loss. Most of these side effects are usually temporary and do not require medical attention, but you should consult your doctor if they persist or worsen. Serious side effects, though rare, can include liver problems, pancreatitis, or suicidal thoughts, so immediate medical attention is necessary if these occur.

5. Is VALANCE 500 MG SOLUTION safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

VALANCE 500 MG SOLUTION is generally considered unsafe during pregnancy as it may increase the risk of birth defects, particularly neural tube defects. If you are pregnant or planning to conceive, it is crucial to consult your doctor to evaluate the risks and benefits. For breastfeeding, caution is advised as the medication may pass into breast milk. Your doctor will help determine if it is safe for you to use while breastfeeding.

6. Can VALANCE 500 MG SOLUTION be taken with other medications?

VALANCE 500 MG SOLUTION can interact with other medications, potentially affecting their efficacy or increasing the risk of side effects. It's important to inform your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are currently taking to avoid potential drug interactions. For example, alcohol consumption is not recommended as it can increase drowsiness and dizziness.

7. What precautions should be taken while using VALANCE 500 MG SOLUTION?

Several precautions should be observed:

• Liver Problems: Do not use if you have severe liver problems or a history of liver disease, and liver function tests may be required before and during treatment.
• Pancreatitis: This medicine may cause severe pancreatitis; report symptoms like nausea, vomiting, or acute abdominal pain immediately.
• Suicidal Thoughts: It may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts; monitor for mood or behavior changes.
• Driving and Machinery: Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery if you experience drowsiness or dizziness.
• Alcohol: Avoid alcohol as it can increase side effects.
• Children: Use in children should only be as prescribed by a doctor.
• Kidney Impairment: Use with caution in patients with kidney diseases, and dose adjustment may be needed.

8. What happens if a dose of VALANCE 500 MG SOLUTION is missed?

If you miss a dose, 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 forgotten one.

9. How should VALANCE 500 MG SOLUTION be stored?

VALANCE 500 MG SOLUTION should be stored in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep it out of the sight and reach of children. It should be stored at room temperature, typically between 10ºC to 25ºC or below 30ºC. Do not use the medicine after its expiry date.