Encorate containing the active ingredient Sodium Valproate is considered an antiepileptic or anticonvulsants type of medication. It works by stabilizing electrical activity in the brain to help restore mental balance and prevent fits. It is mainly prescribed to treat epilepsy but can also be used in the treatment of depression and acute manic episodes in bipolar disorder as well as preventing migraines.
Encorate is usually taken orally 2 to 3 times per day or as directed by a doctor. The medication should be taken with or after food along with a glass of water. Contact a doctor for the correct dosage and length of treatment as it will depend on the patient’s condition and their response to the therapy. Your health care provider may start you on a low dose and gradually adjust your dosage for optimal effectiveness. Encorate should be swallowed whole and not crushed, broken, split or chewed to prevent too much of the drug from being released at once.
Patients using Encorate may encounter unwanted side effects such as: hair loss, nausea, diarrhea, drowsiness, upset stomach, increased appetite or weight gain, headaches.
Contact a doctor immediately should side effects persist or encounter more severe side effects such as: confusion, aggression or agitation, easy bleeding or bruising, jaundice, tremors, irregular or absent menstrual periods, worsening of fits.
It is recommended for pregnant women to switch to another medication as it may have a higher risk of birth defects as other antiepileptic drugs.
Immediately proceed to your nearest emergency department if you suffer an allergic reaction. Symptoms usually associated with such a reaction include difficulty breathing or swallowing, chest tightness, swelling, skin rashes, and hives.
Encorate is not always suitable for all patients. Always consult your health care provider prior to using Encorate if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, trying to conceive, using any other medication (prescription or non-prescription), using any herbal products or supplements, or if you have any allergies or other health problems.
The correct dosage and prescription commonly depend on the patient and the condition being treated. Do not adjust your dosage without the approval of your health care provider. Encorate is only for use as prescribed and instructed.
