Anticonvulsant / Antiepileptic
Last reviewed July 2026
Who is this for?
Sodium valproate is a medicine that calms down overactive electrical signals in the brain, helping to prevent seizures (convulsions) and stabilize mood swings.
Inhibits histone deacetylase enzymes and enhances GABAergic neurotransmission by increasing GABA synthesis and reducing its catabolism, thereby increasing inhibitory neurotransmitter activity in the central nervous system.
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for it. Try to set an alarm so you don't forget, as taking this drug regularly is very important to prevent seizures.
This is a strictly prescription medicine; do not buy it from roadside vendors or patent medicine stores without a doctor's prescription. Do not stop taking it suddenly on your own, as this can cause severe seizures. Regular blood tests may be needed to check your liver function, so keep your hospital appointments.
Avoid drinking alcohol while taking sodium valproate as it increases drowsiness and can worsen liver damage. If you are taking other epilepsy medicines like carbamazepine or phenytoin, tell your doctor because they can affect how well sodium valproate works. Aspirin can increase the level of sodium valproate in your blood and raise the risk of side effects.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Sodium with your other drugs?
Sodium valproate is NOT safe during pregnancy, as it can cause serious birth defects and developmental problems in the baby. Women of childbearing age must use effective contraception and discuss alternatives with their doctor before getting pregnant. It also passes into breast milk, so consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid leaving it near windows or in your car. Keep the container tightly closed to protect from humidity. Always keep this medicine far out of reach of children.
For information only: not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under, especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
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Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.