Valsa CR 300 mg and 500 mg

Valsa CR (Sodium Valproate & Valproic Acid Controlled-Release) contains two forms of the same antiepileptic medicine the salt sodium valproate and valproic acid in a controlled-release matrix. After swallowing, the tablet releases valproate slowly so that blood levels remain steadier over the day. Valproate calms over-excitable neurons by enhancing the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA, reducing repetitive firing through sodium-channel effects, and modulating glutamate pathways. This multi-pathway action helps prevent seizures, stabilizes acute manic symptoms and, in selected patients, supports mood maintenance. Because it is controlled-release, Valsa CR can often be taken once daily (or divided twice daily if your doctor prefers), with fewer peaks and troughs than immediate-release tablets.

Valsa CR (sodium valproate + valproic acid) is used under medical supervision for epilepsy (partial and generalized seizures including absence, myoclonic and tonic-clonic types) and for bipolar disorder to treat acute mania and, where appropriate, for ongoing mood stabilization. Any other use should follow a clinician’s judgment.

Dosing is individualized and titrated gradually. In epilepsy, adults commonly start around 10–15 mg/ day, increasing by 5–10 mg/ week to the lowest dose that keeps the person seizure-free; usual maintenance lies between 30–60 mg/day. In acute mania, typical adult starts are 500–750 mg/day, with rapid titration to 1,000–2,000 mg/day as tolerated, aiming for clinician-guided serum levels (often 50–125 μg/mL). Your prescriber will combine the 300 mg and 500 mg Valsa CR tablets to reach the target dose. Swallow tablets whole with water do not crush or chew, as that defeats the controlled-release design. Taking with food may lessen stomach upset. Do not stop suddenly unless your doctor tells you to; abrupt withdrawal can provoke seizures or symptom rebound.

Storage: Store Valsa CR in a cool, dry place away from moisture and sunlight. Keep the pack tightly closed and out of children’s reach.

Common Side Effects: Valproate is generally well tolerated, but some people notice nausea, indigestion, abdominal discomfort, tremor, sleepiness, dizziness, hair thinning or loss, weight gain, or ankle swelling. Blood tests may show raised liver enzymes or lower platelets. Seek urgent medical care for severe abdominal pain or persistent vomiting (possible pancreatitis), unusual bruising/bleeding, yellowing of skin/eyes, extreme drowsiness or confusion (possible high ammonia), or a severe rash.

Drug Warnings: Before taking Valsa CR, inform your doctor if you have liver disease, a family history of severe liver problems, mitochondrial/​POLG-related disorders (e.g., Alpers-Huttenlocher), urea-cycle disorders, pancreatitis, bleeding problems or low platelets, kidney impairment, or a history of depression or suicidal thoughts. Valproate is teratogenic: it can seriously harm an unborn baby (e.g., birth defects and neurodevelopmental disorders). In people who could become pregnant, use effective contraception, discuss alternatives, and take folic acid as advised; pregnancy testing and careful counseling are recommended before starting. Regular liver-function tests, full blood count/platelets, and, when indicated, serum levels and ammonia are part of safe use. Avoid taking this medicine with other sedating medications unless advised, as it may increase drowsiness and impair alertness.

Drug–Drug Interactions: Valsa CR may interact with other antiepileptics. Carbamazepine, phenytoin, phenobarbital and primidone can lower or complicate levels; dose adjustments and monitoring are needed. Lamotrigine levels rise with valproate, increasing the risk of serious rash lamotrigine doses must be much lower and titrated slowly. Carbapenem antibiotics (imipenem/meropenem/ertapenem) can markedly reduce valproate levels and should generally be avoided. Combined use with topiramate raises the risk of hyperammonemia and hypothermia. Aspirin can increase free valproate; warfarin and other anticoagulants may increase bleeding risk. CNS depressants (alcohol, opioids, benzodiazepines) add sedation. Always tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter medicines and herbal supplements you take.

Drug–Food Interactions: Valsa CR may be taken with or without food; taking with a meal often improves stomach comfort. Alcohol should be limited or avoided because it enhances drowsiness and can lower seizure threshold.

Drug–Disease Interactions: Patients with hepatic impairment, pancreatitis, urea-cycle or mitochondrial disorders, bleeding diathesis, or significant renal impairment require special caution or may be unsuitable for valproate. Always share your full medical history to ensure safe and effective use of Valsa CR 300 mg and Valsa CR 500 mg (sodium valproate & valproic acid controlled-release).