The effects of
alcohol
could be made worse while taking Epilim. Combining it and alcohol can make you more sleepy, dizzy or lightheaded. Your doctor may suggest you avoid alcohol while you are treated with Epilim.
What does epilim do to your brain?
Epilim belongs to a group of medicines called anticonvulsants. These medicines are thought to work by
controlling brain chemicals
which send signals to nerves so that seizures do not happen. Epilim may also be used to control mania, a mental condition with episodes of overactivity, elation or irritability.
What drugs interact with epilim?
Some products that may interact with this drug include: certain antidepressants (e.g.,
amitriptyline, nortriptyline, phenelzine
), certain antibiotics (carbapenems such as doripenem, imipenem), irinotecan, mefloquine, orlistat, other medications for seizure (e.g., ethosuximide, lamotrigine, phenytoin, rufinamide, …
What are the contraindications of Epilim?
Epilim Chrono is contraindicated in the following situations:
In pregnancy unless there is no suitable alternative treatment
(see sections 4.4 and 4.6). In women of childbearing potential unless the conditions of the pregnancy prevention programme are fulfilled (see sections 4.4 and 4.6).
How quickly does epilim work?
Sodium valproate may take several days to show an initial effect and in some cases may take from
two to six weeks for maximum effect
. Treatment is started with low doses and may be increased over a couple of weeks according to your child’s response.
How does epilim work for bipolar?
However, sodium valproate is thought to
reduce or prevent manic episodes by increasing the amount of a chemical called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain
. GABA blocks transmission across nerves in the brain and has a calming effect.
Can epilepsy be cured?
There’s no cure for epilepsy
, but early treatment can make a big difference. Uncontrolled or prolonged seizures can lead to brain damage. Epilepsy also raises the risk of sudden unexplained death. The condition can be successfully managed.
Does epilim cause aggression?
The authors point out that as side effects of sodium valproate can include
aggression
, hyperactivity and behavioural disturbances, then if it is prescribed for the treatment of bipolar disorder with co-occurring behavioural disturbances, it is possible that the medication may make these behaviours worse.
What is Epilim 500mg used for?
It belongs to a group of medicines called anti-convulsants or anti-epileptic agents. It works by helping to calm the brain down. Epilim Chrono is used to
treat epilepsy (fits)
in adults and children.
Can you drive on epilim?
The driving agencies recommend that for safety, you should stop driving during the period of medicine withdrawal, and for
6 months after withdrawal is complete
.
When should I take Epilim levels?
Usually it’s best to check the blood
first thing in the morning
before you have taken the first dose. If this can’t be done, checking a blood level at least 8 hours from the last dose can be done.
Is Epilim safe?
The risk of autism in children exposed to Epilim has been estimated at 2.5%. This is about five times higher than the rate in the general population.
Epilim should not be used in female children or in women of child-bearing age
, unless other treatments are ineffective or not tolerated.
Can Epilim be halved?
Epilim tablets may be given twice daily. Uncoated tablets may be crushed if necessary however, unlike other scored tablets,
the 100 mg tablets are not designed to be given as half doses
. Epilim Syrup and Sugar-Free Liquid should be given in divided doses.
What medications should epileptics avoid?
Tramadol
or Ultram – a pain reliever commonly prescribed to treat moderate to severe pain. Oral contraceptives – which may reduce the effectiveness of your seizure medication or your seizure medication may reduce the effectiveness of your oral contraceptive. Certain antibiotics. Energy drinks or excessive caffeine.
Can you still have seizures when on medication?
Unfortunately,
at least 1 in 3 patients complain they are still having seizures while
on medication. In these cases, the patient is considered to have drug-resistant seizures or drug-resistant epilepsy, also known as refractory epilepsy. The cause of epilepsy and seizures is often unknown.
Is epilim addictive?
Epilim may be used alone or in combination with other medicines to treat your condition. Your doctor, however, may have prescribed Epilim for another reason. Ask your doctor if you have any questions about why it has been prescribed for you.
There is no evidence that Epilim is addictive.
