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Depakine Chrono is a drug intended for people suffering from epilepsy. The active substances it contains, i.e. sodium valproate and valproic acid, have an anti-epileptic effect. They have a very strong effect on the nervous system, blocking epileptic seizures and shock.
Depakine chrono – indications
The main indication for use is epilepsy, including epileptic fits. The drug is also used in the treatment of Lennox-Gastaut syndrome and mania. Mania is a state where a person feels tremendously aroused, agitated and overactive (as if under the influence of stimulants). In this state, she can hurt herself. Most often, people in mania are given lithium, but it happens that the patient is allergic to it, then it should be used Depakine chrono.
Depakine chrono – leaflet
The drug should not be used if you are allergic to active substances. People who suffer from chronic hepatitis and porphyria cannot take it either. Before you start taking the drug and during the treatment, you should perform regular liver tests – functional tests. In the first six months, it may happen that you experience a viral-like weakness in your body. The appetite may also disappear and nausea may appear instead. Each time it should be reported to the attending physician.
If your seizures increase, stop taking the drug and see a doctor. The drug cannot be used by women who plan to become pregnant, because valproate may damage the fetus and even lead to its death.. Therefore, it is recommended that women of childbearing potential also use effective contraception while taking this medicine.
During the first six months of use, some patients have thoughts of suicide or wanting to injure themselves. Each such case should be reported to the doctor. If the threat to life is high, stop taking the drug after consulting your doctor.
The drug should not be used in people under 18 who suffer from mania. In minors with epilepsy, the drug can be used on the recommendation of a doctor. Sodium valproate has a negative (inhibitory) effect on the action of neuroleptic drugs or drugs containing benzodiazepines. Therefore, people with mental disorders should report taking the drug Depakine chrono your psychiatrist.
The drug should be consumed only with meals, washing it down with a large dose of water. It is recommended – unless the doctor decides otherwise – a maximum of two doses a day. The maximum dose is based on the patient’s weight and age. It starts with the lowest dose, gradually increasing to the optimal dose, so that the body slowly begins to tolerate higher and higher doses of the drug. The initial minimum dose is 750 mg. Use it for as long as your doctor tells you to. The maximum dose usually does not exceed 2000 mg. In patients weighing less than 17 kg, the medicine is only given in life-threatening situations.
The manufacturer of the drug Depakine chrono jest firma Inpharm.
Before use, read the leaflet, which contains indications, contraindications, data on side effects and dosage as well as information on the use of the medicinal product, or consult your doctor or pharmacist, as each drug used improperly is a threat to your life or health.