Posted by ed_uk on June 17, 2005, at 15:50:03
In reply to Valproate semisodium vs Sodium Valproate....., posted by Nickengland on June 17, 2005, at 11:36:53
Hi Nick!
In the UK............
Sodium valproate (Epilim, Orlept) is approved only for epilepsy.
Valproic acid (Convulex) is approved only for epilepsy.
Valproate semisodium (Depakote) is approved only for the treatment of manic episodes associated with bipolar disorder. It is not approved for prophylaxis. Valproate semisodium is called divalproex in the US. Valproate semisodium consists of a 1:1 mixture of valproic acid and sodium valproate.
Epilim Chrono also contains a mixture of sodium valproate and valproic acid, but not in a 1:1 ratio. Unlike other UK valproate formulations, Epilim Chrono tablets are not enteric coated. Most valproate formulations are enteric coated in order to reduce the risk of gastric irritation. Since Epilim Chrono is controlled release, I don't think it will make much difference that it's not enteric coated. Nevertheless, if Epilim Chrono irritates your stomach, it might be worth trying Depakote - which is enteric coated. Orlept and standard-release Epilim tablets are also enteric coated.
RE licensing/approval.........what a medication is approved for doesn't make that much difference to be honest. Your doc can prescribe whatever s/he wants to prescribe! I'm not even sure why I brought it up :-O
I think Epilim Chrono (controlled release) might be the best choice for you because it can generally be taken once daily. Then again, if you're already taking Neurontin three times a day I suppose it doesn't make that much difference. If you've got bad memories of Epilim Chrono you might prefer to try Depakote! Depakote is usually take two or three times a day. At the moment, controlled release Depakote is not available in the UK.
For the purpose of maintenance treatment, I think it would be useful to ensure that you always get a prescription for the same brand name.
'.....it is important to note that valproate semisodium 500 mg tablets contain 15.5% more valproic acid equivalent than sodium valproate 500 mg tablets.........'
See........http://pb.rcpsych.org/cgi/content/full/27/12/446
>Out of these 3, bearing in mind they are all more or less the same medication (valproate) is any one better for lack of side effects?
Epilim vs Depakote. In general, I think there's very little difference.
>....would there be a chance of less weight gain in particular??
I think it's very unlikely :-( :-(
Kind regards,
Ed.
poster:ed_uk
thread:514300
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20050617/msgs/514397.html