Encorate Chrono 400 Mg Tablet (10 Tab)

ENCORATE CHRONO 400 MG TABLET

ENCORATE CHRONO 400 MG TABLET is an anticonvulsant medication manufactured by SUN PHARMA LABORATORIES LTD., primarily used to manage various neurological and psychiatric conditions.

• Name:

  • Brand Name: Encorate Chrono 400 Tablet
  • Common Name: Sodium Valproate / Valproic Acid (Controlled Release)

• Composition: Each controlled-release tablet contains Sodium Valproate BP 266.66 mg and Valproic Acid USP 116 mg, combining to a total of 400 mg. Sodium Valproate is a salt form that is rapidly absorbed and converted into valproic acid, the active form that stabilizes electrical activity in the brain.

• Uses: Encorate Chrono 400 Tablet is primarily used for the management of:

  • Epilepsy and Seizures: It effectively controls various types of seizures, including generalized tonic-clonic, complex partial, absence seizures, and those associated with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome and febrile seizures in children. It works by increasing gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) levels in the brain, which helps to calm and stabilize electrical activity.
  • Bipolar Disorder: It helps in stabilizing mood and managing manic episodes associated with bipolar disorder.
  • Migraine Prophylaxis: It is prescribed to prevent and reduce the frequency and severity of migraine headaches.

• Dosage and Administration: This medication should be taken exactly as prescribed by a doctor.

  • Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water; do not crush, chew, or break it, as this can disrupt its controlled-release mechanism and affect its effectiveness.
  • It should generally be taken with or after food to minimize stomach discomfort.
  • Dosage requirements vary based on age, body weight, and the severity of the condition, and may be gradually increased by the doctor until control is achieved.
  • Consistency is key; take the medication regularly as directed, and do not stop suddenly without consulting your doctor, as this may worsen your condition or increase seizure frequency.

• Side Effects: Common side effects may include:

  • Nausea, vomiting, upper abdominal pain, and other digestive disturbances
  • Tremors (involuntary shaking)
  • Headache
  • Drowsiness, sleepiness, dizziness, and impaired coordination
  • Weight gain
  • Hair loss and skin rashes
  • Blurred vision

  More serious, though less common, side effects can include liver injury, pancreatitis, and unusual changes in mood or behavior, including suicidal thoughts. If severe or persistent side effects occur, consult a doctor immediately.

• Precautions:

  • Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Encorate Chrono 400 Tablet is generally unsafe during pregnancy due to definite evidence of risk to the developing baby, especially in the first trimester. It should only be used if clearly needed and prescribed by a doctor, with careful dose adjustment. Consult a doctor if pregnant, planning to conceive, or breastfeeding.
  • Liver and Kidney Conditions: Use with caution in patients with kidney problems, and it is not recommended for those with severe liver disease or a history of liver damage/failure or pancreatitis. Liver function should be monitored regularly during treatment.
  • Alcohol Consumption: Avoid alcohol as it may increase certain side effects, such as drowsiness and the risk of seizures.
  • Driving and Operating Machinery: This medicine can cause drowsiness and dizziness; avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you.
  • Allergies: Do not take if you are allergic to sodium valproate or valproic acid.
  • Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements, as some medicines can interact with Encorate Chrono 400 Tablet, potentially affecting its effectiveness or increasing side effects. Notable interactions include certain antibiotics (e.g., carbapenems), cholesterol-lowering medications, anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin), antidepressants, and other antiepileptic drugs.

• Storage: Store Encorate Chrono 400 Tablet in its original container, securely closed, in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep it out of the sight and reach of children and pets. Follow the specific storage instructions provided on the product packaging.

Encorate Chrono 400 mg Tablet is a medication containing a combination of sodium valproate and valproic acid. It is primarily used to manage various neurological and mood-related conditions.

Here are some frequently asked questions about Encorate Chrono 400 mg Tablet:

What is Encorate Chrono 400 mg Tablet used for?

Encorate Chrono 400 mg Tablet is used for the treatment of various forms of epilepsy (seizures), manic episodes associated with bipolar disorder, and for the prevention of migraine headaches.

How does Encorate Chrono 400 mg Tablet work?

This medicine works by increasing the levels of a natural calming chemical in the brain called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). This action helps to reduce excessive and abnormal electrical activity in the brain, thereby controlling seizures and stabilizing mood.

What is the usual dosage for Encorate Chrono 400 mg Tablet?

The dosage of Encorate Chrono 400 mg Tablet is individualized and determined by your doctor based on your age, body weight, and medical condition. For adults, treatment often starts at 600 mg daily, which may be increased gradually by 200 mg every three days until control is achieved, typically within the range of 1000-2000 mg per day. The maximum daily dose can be up to 2500 mg. It can be given once or twice daily, preferably with food.

What are the possible side effects of Encorate Chrono 400 mg Tablet?

Common side effects can include nausea, vomiting, weight gain, sleepiness, drowsiness, tremors, hair loss, headache, memory impairment, increased liver enzymes, and diarrhea. If these effects bother you or persist, consult your doctor. More serious, though less common, side effects include liver injury and pancreatitis.

Is Encorate Chrono 400 mg Tablet safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Encorate Chrono 400 mg Tablet is generally not recommended and is contraindicated during pregnancy due to a high risk of serious birth defects, such as neural tube defects (e.g., spina bifida), and potential neurodevelopmental disorders in the baby. It should only be used if there is no suitable alternative and under strict specialist supervision. Small quantities of the medicine pass into breast milk, and it may harm the newborn. Therefore, it is generally not recommended during breastfeeding, and you should consult your doctor to discuss the risks and benefits.

Can Encorate Chrono 400 mg Tablet be taken with other medications?

Encorate Chrono can interact with several other medications. It may affect or be affected by other anti-epileptic drugs (like phenytoin, carbamazepine, lamotrigine), antidepressants, blood thinners (such as warfarin), and certain antibiotics (especially carbapenems). Always inform your doctor about all other medicines and supplements you are taking to avoid potential interactions.

What precautions should be taken while taking Encorate Chrono 400 mg Tablet?

Do not stop taking Encorate Chrono 400 mg Tablet suddenly, as this can worsen your condition or trigger seizures. Use with caution if you have liver disease, kidney problems, a history of pancreatitis, depression, or suicidal thoughts. Avoid consuming alcohol, as it can increase side effects like drowsiness and dizziness. Since it can cause drowsiness or dizziness, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you. Your doctor may recommend regular monitoring of blood levels, liver function, and blood counts during treatment.

What happens if a dose is missed?

If you miss a dose of Encorate Chrono 400 mg 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.

How should Encorate Chrono 400 mg Tablet be stored?

Store Encorate Chrono 400 mg Tablet in its original packaging in a cool, dry place, away from direct light and moisture. Keep it out of the reach of children and pets. Do not crush or chew the tablets.