Epival 500mg enteric tab.
This medication is typically used for absence (petit mal) seizures in epilepsy or for mixed tonic-clonic epileptic seizures. It may also be used for bipolar disorder (manic-depressive illness), for the prevention of migraines, as well as for other uses.
Instructions
This medication is typically used twice a day. However, your pharmacist may have suggested a different schedule that is more appropriate for you. It is not advisable to stop using this product suddenly, particularly if you have been on it for several weeks. If you are considering stopping the medication, talk to your pharmacist first.
It must be used regularly and continuously to maintain its beneficial effects. Be sure to keep an adequate supply on hand. This medication should be swallowed whole. It should not be split, crushed or chewed.
If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember -- unless it is almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose. Do not double the next dose to catch up. This medication may irritate the stomach, and should be taken with food. It is best to avoid coffee, spicy food or alcohol.
Consuming alcohol may intensify the effect of this product. Limit alcohol consumption to occasional small quantities.
Side effects
In addition to its desired action, this medication may cause some side effects, notably:
- it may cause hair loss;
- it may cause diarrhea;
- it may cause dizziness - use caution when getting up from a lying or sitting position and use caution if driving;
- it may cause unusual tiredness;
- it may cause nausea or, rarely, vomiting;
- it may cause shakiness.
Each person may react differently to a treatment. If you think this medication may be causing side effects (including those described here, or others), talk to your health care professional. He or she can help you to determine whether or not the medication is the source of the problem.
Storage
As with most medications, this product should be stored at room temperature. Store it in a secure location where it will not be exposed to excessive heat, moisture or direct sunlight. Make sure that any leftover portion is disposed of safely.
Additional Information
Taking this medication during pregnancy may be harmful for the baby. Women of childbearing potential should use an effective contraceptive method during treatment and men who are taking the medication should use an effective contraceptive method during treatment and for several months after the end of it. Ask your health care professional for details.
Pregnant women should not use this product. If you're planning a pregnancy or become pregnant, contact your family doctor.
This medication may interact with other medications or supplements, sometimes significantly. Many interactions, however, may be dealt with by a dosage adjustment or a change in medication schedule. Check with your pharmacist before using this medication in combination with any other medications (including non-prescription products), vitamins or natural products.
Blood donation is usually refused during this treatment.
General notes
When meeting with any health professional, it is important for you to share the following information:
- Your medical history and allergies (medication, food, or other);
- If you're pregnant or want to become pregnant, or if you're breastfeeding;
- If you use tobacco or cannabis or its derivatives, or if you use recreational drugs;
- The names of all the medications you take, whether you take them regularly or once in a while, including over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and natural health products.
It is also strongly recommended that you keep an up-to-date list of all the medications you take and carry it with you at all times. This could be useful if you have to see a health professional or need emergency care.
Keep all your medications out of the reach of children and pets and return any unused or expired medications to the pharmacy for proper disposal.