Sodium valproate

Anti-epileptic and mood stabiliser
PRESCRIPTION ONLY IN INDIA

Sodium valproate is a anti-epileptic and mood stabiliser found in 11 medicines sold in India, such as Encorate Chrono 500, Valparin 200, Encorate Chrono 300. Below: what it is for, how it works, how to take it, side effects, interactions and pregnancy advice.

Also called: valproate, valproic acid, divalproex

What it is used for

Prevents seizures and is used in bipolar disorder and migraine prevention.

How it works

An anti-epileptic and mood stabiliser that is very effective for many seizures and bipolar disorder.

How to take it

Usually twice a day, with or after food; swallow slow-release tablets whole. Regular blood tests may be needed.

Common side effects

  • Nausea
  • Weight gain
  • Hair thinning
  • Tremor
  • Drowsiness

Get medical help straight away if

  • Severe stomach pain (pancreatitis)
  • Yellow skin, vomiting or confusion (liver)
  • Bruising or bleeding

Be careful

Must not be used in pregnancy unless no alternative; needs liver tests.

Other medicines and interactions

Lamotrigine levels double with it (rash risk). Carbapenem antibiotics drop its level sharply. Aspirin raises its effect.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Causes serious birth defects and developmental problems. Girls and women who could become pregnant must use effective contraception and only take it under a pregnancy prevention plan; never stop suddenly, talk to your doctor first.

Brands of Sodium valproate (11)

Encorate Chrono 300Encorate Chrono 500Epilex Chrono 500Kronostar 500Torvate Chrono 500Valparin 200Valparin Chrono 500Valporate Chrono-500Valprol CR 500Valrate CR 500Valtec CR-500

Common questions

What is Sodium valproate used for?

Prevents seizures and is used in bipolar disorder and migraine prevention.

How does Sodium valproate work?

An anti-epileptic and mood stabiliser that is very effective for many seizures and bipolar disorder.

How should I take Sodium valproate?

Usually twice a day, with or after food; swallow slow-release tablets whole. Regular blood tests may be needed.

What are the side effects of Sodium valproate?

Common: Nausea, weight gain, hair thinning, tremor, drowsiness. Get help straight away for: Severe stomach pain (pancreatitis), yellow skin, vomiting or confusion (liver), bruising or bleeding.

Does Sodium valproate interact with other medicines?

Lamotrigine levels double with it (rash risk). Carbapenem antibiotics drop its level sharply. Aspirin raises its effect.

Is Sodium valproate safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Causes serious birth defects and developmental problems. Girls and women who could become pregnant must use effective contraception and only take it under a pregnancy prevention plan; never stop suddenly, talk to your doctor first.

Does Sodium valproate need a prescription in India?

Yes. In India it is a prescription (Schedule H) medicine, so a pharmacist should sell it only with a doctor's prescription.

Which brands contain Sodium valproate?

Encorate Chrono 300, Encorate Chrono 500, Epilex Chrono 500, Kronostar 500, Torvate Chrono 500, Valparin 200, Valparin Chrono 500, Valporate Chrono-500, Valprol CR 500, Valrate CR 500, Valtec CR-500.

Sources and further reading

NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu from standard prescribing information.

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For information only, not medical advice. This page is a plain-language summary written from standard prescribing information and the public guides linked below. Brands sometimes change their formula, so always check the composition printed on the pack. Doses here are typical adult doses; yours may differ. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without your doctor or pharmacist, and keep all medicines away from children. In an emergency, call 112 (India) or your local emergency number.