Has your doctor prescribed Valproic Acid to you or someone in your family to control seizures, that is, epilepsy? If so, it is very important to be fully informed about this medicine. Because this is not just a medicine like a Panadol tablet. So let's talk about this medicine, what it does, and the things to be careful about while using it, simply and politely.
What is Valproic Acid?
Simply put, this is a medicine that is given to prevent and control epilepsy, or 'fits' as we call them in our language. The nerve cells in our brain sometimes become overactive, unnecessarily. Like a short circuit. That's when the fit comes. So what this Valproic Acid medicine does is calm those overactive nerves and help them maintain their function at a normal level. In this way, the fit is controlled.
Things you need to tell your doctor before starting medication
This is very important. Before you start taking this medicine, it is essential that your doctor is fully aware of your health condition. This is because people with certain medical conditions need to be very careful when giving this medicine. Therefore, if you have any of the following conditions, be sure to tell your doctor about it.
| Do you have these conditions? | Why is it important? |
|---|---|
| Liver or kidney disease | Because these organs are involved in the process of eliminating this medication from the body, if they have any medical conditions, the dosage of the medication may need to be changed or a different medication may need to be prescribed. |
| If you are a frequent drinker | Combining alcohol and this medicine may increase drowsiness, dizziness, and liver damage. |
| Low platelet counts or bleeding disorders | This medicine may increase the risk of bleeding. |
| Genetic diseases such as mitochondrial disease or urea cycle disorder (UCD) | This medicine can cause serious side effects in people with these rare medical conditions. |
| If you or someone in your family has suicidal thoughts or depression | This medication can sometimes alter mental status, so the doctor should be aware of this. |
| If you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or breastfeeding | This is extremely important. This medicine can cause serious harm to the unborn baby. We will talk about this in more detail. |
| Allergies to other medications, foods, or substances | It is important to know if you are allergic to valproic acid or any of its ingredients. |
How should I use the medicine?
This medicine comes in the form of a solution. It is very important to take it exactly as prescribed by your doctor, and at the right time.
- Accurate measurement: Use the special measuring spoon or cup that comes with the medicine to measure it. Do not use household teaspoons or tablespoons, as they are not accurate. This may cause you to get more or less of the medicine.
- With or without food: This medicine can be taken before or after meals. However, if you experience stomach upset or heartburn, it is best to take it with food.
- Don't stop suddenly: This is another thing to remember. Never stop taking this medication suddenly without consulting your doctor. Doing so may make the seizure uncontrollable and worsen the condition.
Important: It is very helpful if you can keep a small card or bracelet with information about the disease, the medicine, and the dosage while taking this medicine. This will be very helpful for those who are helping you in an emergency.
What if I miss a dose of medication?
We all forget to take our medicine sometimes. If that happens, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose at the scheduled time. Do not take a double dose for any reason.
What if you take too much medicine? (Overdose)
If you have any suspicion that you have taken too much of this medicine, do not ignore it. Go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately. Or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital .
Special points to be aware of when taking the medicine
Take care of your mental health.
This is very important. Some people taking Valproic Acid may experience changes in their mood. This may include new depression, worsening of existing depression, or suicidal thoughts. Also, be aware of any signs of anxiety, irritability, or restlessness. If you notice any of these changes, especially when you first start taking the medication or after changing your dose, talk to your doctor right away.
About pregnancy and breastfeeding
If you are a woman, you should be especially aware of this.
If you are planning to become pregnant, or think you may be pregnant, tell your doctor right away . Valproic Acid is a drug that can cause serious birth defects, especially in the nervous system. Therefore, it is important to talk to your doctor to choose the safest option for both you and your baby.
Sleepiness and attention
You may feel sleepy, dizzy, or have blurred vision while taking this medicine. Therefore, avoid driving, operating machinery, or doing other activities that require alertness until you know exactly how this medicine affects you. Drinking alcohol can make this sleepiness worse, so avoid alcohol altogether.
Possible side effects
Like any medication, Valproic Acid can cause side effects. Some are serious, some are common. The important thing is to be aware of these and take action when necessary.
| Side effect | Description |
|---|---|
| Serious side effects that require immediate medical attention | |
| Allergies | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue. |
| Liver damage | Pain in the upper right side of the abdomen, loss of appetite, nausea, yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark yellow/brown urine, and tarry stools. |
| Pancreatitis | Severe abdominal pain (often spreading to the back), fever, nausea, vomiting. |
| Increased ammonia levels in the blood | Unusual tiredness, confusion, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting. |
| Severe skin reactions | Red/purple rashes on the skin with symptoms of fever and cold, which later turn into blisters and the skin peels off. |
| Abnormal bleeding | Bleeding that does not stop even from a small wound, causing unnecessary bruising of the skin. |
| Side effects that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Drowsiness/dizziness | Drowsiness or dizziness. |
| Hair loss | Hair loss. |
| Headache | Headache. |
| Nausea | Nausea. |
| Hand tremors | Tremors or shaking. |
| Weight gain | Weight gain. |
Take-Home Message
- Valproic Acid is an important medication used to control fits (epilepsy).
- Never stop taking this medication suddenly without medical advice.
- Be sure to tell your doctor about all other medications you are taking, any other medical conditions you have, and if you are pregnant or thinking about becoming pregnant.
- If you experience any serious side effects, such as severe skin rashes, severe stomach pain, yellowing of the skin, or a significant change in mood, seek medical advice immediately.
- If you have any concerns about this medication, talk to your doctor openly about it. Don't be afraid.
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