Background pattern
Depakine Hrono 500

Depakine Hrono 500

About the medicine

How to use Depakine Hrono 500

Leaflet accompanying the packaging: information for the user

DEPAKINE CHRONO 300

200 mg + 87 mg, prolonged-release coated tablets

DEPAKINE CHRONO 500

333 mg + 145 mg, prolonged-release coated tablets

Sodium valproate + Valproic acid
This medicinal product is subject to additional monitoring. This will allow for the quick identification of new safety information. The user of the medicinal product can also help by reporting any adverse reactions that occur after taking the medicinal product. To find out how to report adverse reactions, see section 4.

WARNING

Depakine Chrono (sodium valproate + valproic acid) used during pregnancy can seriously harm the unborn child. Women of childbearing age should use effective contraception (birth control) without interruption throughout the entire treatment period with Depakine Chrono. The treating physician will discuss this with the patient, and the recommendations presented in section 2 of this leaflet should also be followed.
Patients should contact their treating physician immediately if they plan to become pregnant or suspect they are pregnant.
Depakine Chrono should not be discontinued unless advised by a physician, as the patient's condition may worsen.

It is necessary to carefully read the contents of the leaflet before taking the medicinal product, as it contains important information for the patient.

  • The leaflet should be kept so that it can be re-read if necessary.
  • In case of any doubts, the patient should consult a physician or pharmacist.
  • This medicinal product has been prescribed specifically for one person. It should not be passed on to others. The medicinal product may harm another person, even if the symptoms of their illness are the same.
  • If the patient experiences any adverse reactions, including those not listed in this leaflet, they should inform their physician or pharmacist. See section 4.

Table of contents of the leaflet:

  • 1. What is Depakine Chrono and what is it used for
  • 2. Important information before taking Depakine Chrono
  • 3. How to take Depakine Chrono
  • 4. Possible side effects
  • 5. How to store Depakine Chrono
  • 6. Contents of the pack and other information

1. What is Depakine Chrono and what is it used for

Depakine Chrono is a prolonged-release coated tablet containing the active substances sodium valproate and valproic acid, which belong to the group of antiepileptic drugs and have a central nervous system effect. The medicinal product has anticonvulsant effects in various forms of epilepsy in humans.
Depakine Chrono is used to treat epilepsy and mania.
Depakine Chrono is used to treat:

  • Epilepsy, in generalized seizures:
    • myoclonic seizures,
    • tonic-clonic seizures,
    • atonic seizures,
    • absence seizures; partial seizures:
    • simple or complex partial seizures,
    • secondarily generalized seizures,
    • Lennox-Gastaut syndrome.
  • Mania, which is a condition where the patient feels very excited, elated, agitated, enthusiastic, or overactive. Mania occurs in a disease known as bipolar affective disorder. Depakine Chrono may be used when lithium cannot be used.

2. Important information before taking Depakine Chrono

When not to take Depakine Chrono

Do not take the medicinal product in the following cases:

  • if the patient is hypersensitive to the active substance sodium valproate or any of the other ingredients of this medicinal product (listed in section 6),
  • if the patient has acute or chronic hepatitis,
  • if the patient has had severe hepatitis, especially drug-induced or if the patient's family history indicates severe hepatitis,
  • if the patient has porphyria (a very rare metabolic disorder),
  • concomitant use with mefloquine,
  • if the patient has a genetic disorder causing mitochondrial disorders (e.g., patients with Alpers-Huttenlocher syndrome),
  • if the patient has metabolic disorders, such as disorders of the urea cycle,
  • if the patient has a carnitine deficiency (a very rare metabolic disorder) that is not being treated.
  • bipolar affective disorder:
    • if the patient is pregnant,
    • if the patient is of childbearing age, unless the patient uses effective contraception (birth control) throughout the entire treatment period with Depakine Chrono. Do not discontinue Depakine Chrono or contraception without discussing it with a physician. The treating physician will provide further guidance (see below "Pregnancy, breastfeeding, and fertility - Important note for women").
  • epilepsy:
    • if the patient is pregnant, unless no other therapy is effective,
    • if the patient is of childbearing age, unless the patient uses effective contraception (birth control) throughout the entire treatment period with Depakine Chrono. Do not discontinue Depakine Chrono or contraception without discussing it with a physician. The treating physician will provide further guidance (see below "Pregnancy, breastfeeding, and fertility - Important note for women").

Warnings and precautions

Before starting treatment with Depakine Chrono, the patient should discuss it with their physician.

THE PATIENT SHOULD IMMEDIATELY INFORM THEIR PHYSICIAN:

  • In case of sudden onset of the following symptoms: weakness, loss of appetite, drowsiness, recurrent vomiting, and abdominal pain, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes) or recurrence of seizures, especially during the first 6 months of treatment, the patient should immediately inform their physician.

Depakine Chrono may cause severe liver damage, which can be fatal.
Before starting treatment and during the first 6 months of treatment, the patient should undergo periodic laboratory tests to monitor liver function.
The risk of liver damage increases if Depakine Chrono is used in children under 3 years of age, patients taking other antiepileptic drugs, or patients with other neurological or metabolic disorders, as well as in patients with severe epilepsy.

  • In case of acute abdominal pain, the patient should immediately inform their physician. Depakine Chrono can very rarely cause severe pancreatitis, which can be fatal.
  • If the patient or their child taking Depakine Chrono experiences balance and coordination problems, drowsiness, or decreased alertness, vomiting, they should immediately inform their physician. This may be due to increased ammonia levels in the blood.
  • A small number of people taking antiepileptic drugs containing sodium valproate have thought about harming or killing themselves. If such thoughts occur, the patient should immediately contact their physician.
  • Severe skin reactions, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis, drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS), polymorphic eruption, and angioedema, have been reported with valproate treatment. If the patient notices any symptoms related to these severe skin reactions, they should immediately consult their physician.

Before starting treatment with this medicinal product, the patient should discuss it with their physician:

  • Sodium valproate should not be used in women with epilepsy who are planning to become pregnant, unless other treatments are ineffective or not tolerated. The benefits of using the medicinal product should be weighed against the risks before the first prescription or when a woman treated with sodium valproate is planning to become pregnant. Women of childbearing age must use effective contraception during treatment.
  • Before starting treatment, as well as before surgery and in case of bruising or spontaneous bleeding, laboratory tests (blood morphology with smear, including platelet count, bleeding time, and coagulation tests) are recommended.
  • Caution should be exercised in patients with impaired renal function. The physician may recommend a lower dose of the medicinal product.
  • The medicinal product should be used with caution in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus.
  • If the patient is suspected to have any metabolic disorder, especially inborn enzyme deficiencies, such as "urea cycle disorders", due to the risk of increased ammonia levels in the blood.
  • Weight gain may occur in patients treated with sodium valproate.
  • If the patient has a rare disorder known as "carnitine palmitoyltransferase II deficiency", due to the increased risk of muscle disorders.
  • Concomitant use of carbapenem antibiotics with valproic acid is not recommended (see section "Depakine Chrono and other medicinal products").
  • Sodium valproate is mainly excreted by the kidneys, partly in the form of ketone bodies, so in diabetic patients, the test for ketone bodies may give a false positive result.
  • If there is a family history of mitochondrial disorders or the physician suspects such a disorder, due to the risk of liver damage.
  • As with other antiepileptic drugs, the severity or frequency of seizures may increase during treatment with this medicinal product. If the patient experiences an increase in seizures, they should immediately consult their physician.
  • If the patient has inadequate carnitine intake, found in meat and dairy products, especially in children under 10 years of age,
  • If the patient has a carnitine deficiency and is taking carnitine.
  • If the patient has ever experienced a severe skin rash or exfoliative dermatitis after taking sodium valproate.

Children and adolescents

Children and adolescents under 18 years of age:
Depakine Chrono should not be used in children and adolescents under 18 years of age for the treatment of mania.

Depakine Chrono and other medicinal products

The patient should tell their physician about all medicinal products they are currently taking or have recently taken, as well as any medicinal products they plan to take.
Some medicinal products may affect the action of sodium valproate, and sodium valproate may affect the action of other medicinal products.
These include:

  • neuroleptics, including quetiapine, olanzapine (used to treat psychotic disorders);
  • medicinal products used to treat depression, MAO inhibitors;
  • benzodiazepines, used to treat insomnia and anxiety disorders;
  • other antiepileptic drugs, including phenobarbital, phenytoin, primidone, lamotrigine, carbamazepine, felbamate, topiramate, rufinamid;
  • kanabidiol (used to treat epilepsy and other indications);
  • certain anti-infective agents containing pivampicillin (such as pivampicillin, adefovir dipivoxil);
  • methotrexate (used to treat cancer and inflammatory diseases);
  • zidovudine, ritonavir, and lopinavir (used to treat HIV infection and AIDS);
  • mefloquine (used to treat and prevent malaria);
  • salicylates (acetylsalicylic acid);
  • anticoagulants;
  • cimetidine (used to treat stomach ulcers);
  • erythromycin, rifampicin;
  • carbapenems (antibiotics used to treat bacterial infections);
  • cholestyramine (used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood);
  • propofol (used for general anesthesia);
  • nimodipine;
  • medicinal products containing estrogen (including some contraceptive agents);
  • metamizole (used to treat pain and fever);
  • clozapine (used to treat mental illnesses).

These medicinal products may affect the action of sodium valproate and vice versa. The patient may need to adjust the dose of the individual medicinal products or use other medicinal products. The physician will inform the patient about these changes in treatment.
The physician will also provide additional information about medicinal products that should be used with caution or avoided during treatment with Depakine Chrono.

Depakine Chrono with food, drink, and alcohol

The medicinal product should be taken with meals.
It is not recommended to drink alcohol during treatment with sodium valproate.

Pregnancy, breastfeeding, and fertility

Pregnancy

Important note for women

Bipolar affective disorder

  • Depakine Chrono should not be used in the treatment of bipolar affective disorder if the patient is pregnant.
  • In the treatment of bipolar affective disorder, women of childbearing age should not take Depakine Chrono unless they use effective contraception (birth control) throughout the entire treatment period with Depakine Chrono. Do not discontinue Depakine Chrono or contraception without discussing it with a physician. The treating physician will provide further guidance.

Epilepsy

  • Depakine Chrono should not be used in the treatment of epilepsy if the patient is pregnant, unless no other therapy is effective.
  • In the treatment of epilepsy, women of childbearing age should not take Depakine Chrono unless they use effective contraception (birth control) throughout the entire treatment period with Depakine Chrono. Do not discontinue Depakine Chrono or contraception without discussing it with a physician. The treating physician will provide further guidance.

Risk of taking valproate during pregnancy (regardless of the disease being treated with valproate)

  • The patient should immediately consult their physician if they plan to become pregnant or suspect they are pregnant.
  • Taking valproate during pregnancy carries a risk. The higher the dose, the greater the risk, but no dose is risk-free, even when valproate is used in combination with other antiepileptic drugs.
  • Valproate may cause serious birth defects and affect the physical and mental development of the child after birth.
  • The most common birth defects include: spina bifida (when the bones of the spine are not properly developed); developmental abnormalities of the face and skull; developmental abnormalities of the heart, kidneys, urinary tract, and genital organs; limb abnormalities; and many related developmental abnormalities affecting multiple organs and body parts. Birth defects can cause disability, which can be significant.
  • Children exposed to valproate in the womb have been reported to have hearing problems or deafness.
  • Children exposed to valproate in the womb have been reported to have eye abnormalities, often in combination with other birth defects. Eye abnormalities can affect vision.
  • In a group of children born to mothers taking valproate, about 11 out of 100 children will have birth defects. For comparison, birth defects occur in about 2-3 out of 100 children born to women without epilepsy.
  • It is estimated that up to 30-40% of preschool-age children whose mothers took valproate during pregnancy may experience early developmental problems. Children with the condition may start walking and talking later, be less intellectually able than other children, have language problems, and memory difficulties.
  • Children exposed to valproate in the womb are more likely to be diagnosed with various autism spectrum disorders. Some evidence suggests that these children may also have an increased risk of developing attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
  • Before prescribing this medicinal product, the treating physician will explain to the patient what may threaten the child if the patient becomes pregnant while taking valproate. If the patient taking this medicinal product decides to have a child, they should not discontinue Depakine Chrono or contraception without discussing it with their treating physician.
  • Some contraceptive agents (estrogen-containing oral contraceptives) may decrease valproate levels in the blood. The patient should discuss their contraception method with their physician.
  • Parents or guardians of girls treated with valproate should contact the treating physician when their daughter starts menstruating.
  • The patient should ask their physician about taking folic acid when trying to conceive. Folic acid may reduce the overall risk of spina bifida and early miscarriage, which applies to all pregnancies. However, it is unlikely that folic acid will reduce the risk of birth defects associated with valproate treatment.

Choose the situation that applies to the patient and read the information:

o

STARTING TREATMENT WITH DEPAKINE CHRONO

o

CONTINUING TREATMENT WITH DEPAKINE CHRONO WITHOUT TRYING FOR A CHILD

CONTINUING TREATMENT WITH DEPAKINE CHRONO WHILE TRYING FOR A CHILD

o

BECOMING PREGNANT WHILE CONTINUING TREATMENT WITH DEPAKINE CHRONO

STARTING TREATMENT WITH DEPAKINE CHRONO

If Depakine Chrono is prescribed for the first time, the treating physician will explain the risks to the unborn child if the patient becomes pregnant. Women of childbearing age should ensure that they use effective contraception throughout the entire treatment period with Depakine Chrono. If the patient needs advice on contraception, they should consult their treating physician or a family planning clinic.

Important information

  • Before starting treatment with Depakine Chrono, the patient should ensure that they are not pregnant through a pregnancy test, the results of which should be confirmed by the treating physician.
  • The patient should use effective contraception throughout the entire treatment period with Depakine Chrono.
  • The patient should discuss their contraception method with their treating physician. The treating physician will provide the patient with information on pregnancy prevention and may refer them to a specialist for contraception advice.
  • The patient should regularly (at least once a year) visit a specialist experienced in treating bipolar affective disorder or epilepsy. During this visit, the treating physician will ensure that the patient has been well-informed and understands all the risks and advice related to taking valproate during pregnancy.
  • If the patient plans to become pregnant, they should inform their physician.
  • If the patient is pregnant or suspects they may be pregnant, they should immediately inform their physician.

CONTINUING TREATMENT WITH DEPAKINE CHRONO WITHOUT TRYING FOR A CHILD

If the patient continues treatment with Depakine Chrono and does not plan to become pregnant, they must ensure that they use effective contraception without interruption throughout the entire treatment period with Depakine Chrono. If the patient needs advice on contraception, they should consult their physician or a family planning clinic.

Important information

  • The patient should use effective contraception throughout the entire treatment period with Depakine Chrono.
  • The patient should discuss their contraception method with their treating physician. The treating physician will provide the patient with information on pregnancy prevention and may refer them to a specialist for contraception advice.
  • The patient should regularly (at least once a year) visit a specialist experienced in treating bipolar affective disorder or epilepsy. During this visit, the treating physician will ensure that the patient has been well-informed and understands all the risks and advice related to taking valproate during pregnancy.
  • If the patient plans to become pregnant, they should inform their physician.
  • If the patient is pregnant or suspects they may be pregnant, they should immediately inform their physician.

CONTINUING TREATMENT WITH DEPAKINE CHRONO WHILE TRYING FOR A CHILD

If the patient plans to become pregnant, they should first schedule a visit with their treating physician. Do not discontinue Depakine Chrono or contraception without discussing it with the physician. The treating physician will provide further guidance.
Children born to mothers who took valproate during pregnancy are at high risk of birth defects and developmental problems, which can significantly impair the child. The treating physician will refer the patient to a specialist experienced in treating bipolar affective disorder or epilepsy to assess alternative treatment options. The specialist may take steps to ensure the best possible outcome of the pregnancy and minimize the risk to the mother and unborn child.
The patient should ask their physician about taking folic acid when trying to conceive. Folic acid may reduce the overall risk of spina bifida and early miscarriage, which applies to all pregnancies. However, it is unlikely that folic acid will reduce the risk of birth defects associated with valproate treatment.

Important information

  • Do not discontinue treatment with Depakine Chrono unless advised by a physician.
  • Do not discontinue contraception before discussing it with the treating physician and developing a plan to ensure the patient's condition is controlled and the risks to the child are minimized.
  • First, the patient should schedule a visit with their treating physician. During this visit, the treating physician will ensure that the patient has been well-informed and understands all the risks and advice related to taking valproate during pregnancy.
  • The treating physician may decide to switch to another medicinal product or discontinue Depakine Chrono well before the patient becomes pregnant to ensure the condition is stable.
  • If the patient is pregnant or suspects they may be pregnant, they should schedule an urgent visit with their treating physician.

BECOMING PREGNANT WHILE CONTINUING TREATMENT WITH DEPAKINE CHRONO

Do not discontinue treatment with Depakine Chrono unless advised by a physician, as the patient's condition may worsen. If the patient is pregnant or suspects they may be pregnant, they should schedule an urgent visit with their treating physician. The treating physician will provide further guidance.
Children born to mothers who took valproate during pregnancy are at high risk of birth defects and developmental problems, which can significantly impair the child.
The patient will be referred to a specialist experienced in treating bipolar affective disorder or epilepsy to assess alternative treatment options.
In exceptional circumstances, when Depakine Chrono is the only available treatment option during pregnancy, the patient will be closely monitored, both in terms of the underlying disease and fetal development. The patient and their partner will receive counseling and support regarding the pregnancy exposed to valproate.
The patient should ask their physician about taking folic acid. Folic acid may reduce the overall risk of spina bifida and early miscarriage, which applies to all pregnancies. However, it is unlikely that folic acid will reduce the risk of birth defects associated with valproate treatment.

Important information

  • If the patient is pregnant or suspects they may be pregnant, they should schedule an urgent visit with their treating physician.
  • Do not discontinue treatment with Depakine Chrono unless advised by a physician.
  • The patient should ensure that they are referred to a specialist experienced in treating epilepsy or bipolar affective disorder to assess the need for alternative treatment options.
  • The patient must receive counseling about the risks of taking Depakine Chrono during pregnancy, including its teratogenic effects and physical and mental developmental disorders in children.
  • The patient should ensure that they are referred to a specialist for prenatal monitoring to detect any developmental abnormalities.

Newborns of mothers who took Depakine Chrono during pregnancy may experience coagulation disorders, hypoglycemia, hypothyroidism, and withdrawal symptoms, such as agitation, irritability, hyperactivity, tremors, seizures, and feeding problems.

The patient should read the patient guide provided by their physician.

The treating physician will discuss the annual confirmation form regarding the risks and ask the patient to sign and keep it. The patient will also receive a patient card from the pharmacist to remind them of the risks associated with taking valproate during pregnancy.

Important note for male patients

Possible risk associated with taking valproate in the 3 months before conception
A study suggests a possible risk of motor disorders and developmental delays (problems with early childhood development) in children whose fathers were treated with valproate in the 3 months before conception. In this study, such disorders occurred in about 5 out of 100 children whose fathers were treated with valproate, compared to about 3 out of 100 children of men treated with lamotrigine or levetiracetam (other medicinal products that may be used to treat the patient's condition). The risk to children whose fathers stopped taking valproate at least 3 months (the time needed to produce new sperm) before conception is unknown. The study has limitations, and it is not clear whether the suggested increased risk of developmental delays is due to valproate. The study was not large enough to show what specific types of motor disorders and developmental delays are associated with this risk.
As a precaution, the physician will discuss with the patient:

  • the possible risk to children whose fathers were treated with valproate;
  • the need to consider using effective contraception (birth control) by the patient and their partner during treatment and for 3 months after its completion;
  • the need to consult a physician when planning to conceive and before stopping contraception;
  • the possibility of using other treatment options for the patient's condition, depending on their individual situation.

Men should not donate sperm while taking valproate or for 3 months after stopping treatment.
If the patient plans to have children, they should discuss it with their physician.
If the patient's partner becomes pregnant while the patient is taking valproate in the 3 months before conception and the patient has questions, they should contact their physician. Do not discontinue treatment without consulting a physician. If the patient stops treatment, their symptoms may worsen.
The patient should regularly visit their physician. During such a visit, the physician will discuss the precautions associated with taking valproate and the possibility of using other treatment options for the patient's condition, depending on their individual situation.
The patient should read the patient guide provided by their physician. The patient will also receive a patient card from the pharmacist to remind them of the possible risk associated with taking valproate.

Breastfeeding

Valproate is excreted in small amounts into breast milk. The patient should consult their physician about whether they can breastfeed during treatment.

Driving and using machines

Some patients may experience drowsiness during treatment, especially when taking several antiepileptic drugs or concomitantly with benzodiazepines. Before driving or operating machinery, the patient should ensure that they know how they react to the treatment.

Depakine Chrono contains sodium

Depakine Chrono 300 contains 27.65 mg of sodium (the main component of common salt) per tablet. This corresponds to 1.38% of the maximum recommended daily intake of sodium in the diet for adults.
Depakine Chrono 500 contains 46.08 mg of sodium (the main component of common salt) per tablet. This corresponds to 2.3% of the maximum recommended daily intake of sodium in the diet for adults.

3. How to take Depakine Chrono

Depakine Chrono should always be taken as directed by the physician. In case of doubts, the patient should consult their physician.
Girls and women of childbearing age
Treatment with Depakine Chrono should be initiated and supervised by a physician specializing in the treatment of epilepsy or bipolar affective disorder.
Male patients
It is recommended that treatment with Depakine Chrono be initiated and supervised by a specialist with experience in the treatment of epilepsy or bipolar affective disorder – see section 2 "Important note for male patients".
The use of the prolonged-release formulation allows for once-daily or twice-daily administration of Depakine Chrono.
If necessary, Depakine Chrono prolonged-release coated tablets may be used in children over 17 kg in body weight, provided that the child is able to swallow the tablet.
This formulation is not suitable for children under 6 years of age (risk of choking).
The daily dose of Depakine Chrono should be determined based on the patient's age and body weight, and the physician should always consider the patient's individual sensitivity to valproate.
Switching to prolonged-release formulations (Depakine Chrono).
When switching from conventional tablets to prolonged-release tablets, it is recommended (based on current knowledge) to maintain the same daily dose.
Starting treatment with Depakine Chrono in epilepsy
When starting treatment with Depakine Chrono as the only antiepileptic drug, the dose should be increased every 2-3 days to reach the average recommended dose in one week.
When introducing Depakine Chrono in patients already taking other antiepileptic drugs, the dose of Depakine Chrono should be gradually increased to the average recommended dose within 2 weeks. Then, the dose of the other antiepileptic drugs should be reduced to ensure optimal control of seizures or discontinued if possible.
When adding other antiepileptic drugs to the treatment, they should be introduced gradually.
The initial daily dose is usually 5 to 15 mg/kg body weight and should be gradually increased every 2-3 days by 5 mg/kg body weight to reach the optimal dose (see "Starting treatment with Depakine Chrono").
Usually, the daily dose is 20 to 30 mg/kg body weight, given in one or two divided doses.
If necessary, the daily dose may be higher than 50 mg/kg body weight, provided that the patient is closely monitored (see section "Caution should be exercised when taking Depakine Chrono").
Children over 17 kg in body weight
The average dose is 30 mg/kg body weight per day.
Adults
The average dose is 20 to 30 mg/kg body weight per day.
Elderly patients
Dosage should be based on the control of seizures.

Taking a higher dose of Depakine Chrono than recommended

Symptoms of severe valproate overdose include: coma, decreased muscle tone and reflexes, pinpoint pupils, respiratory depression; metabolic acidosis, hypotension, and acute circulatory failure may also occur; other symptoms reported include seizures in cases of very high serum levels.
Reports of increased intracranial pressure with brain edema have been described in patients taking valproate.
The presence of sodium in valproate formulations may lead to increased sodium levels in the blood in the event of an overdose of the medicinal product.
In case of taking a higher dose of Depakine Chrono than recommended, the patient should immediately consult their physician or pharmacist.
Hospital treatment in case of poisoning should include: gastric lavage (up to 10-12 hours after ingestion of the medicinal product), constant monitoring of cardiovascular and respiratory function. In severe cases, hemodialysis or even exchange transfusion may be necessary.

Missing a dose of Depakine Chrono

In case of missing a dose, the patient should take it as soon as possible, unless it is close to the time of the next dose. The patient should not take two doses of the medicinal product at the same time or in a short period. In case of doubts, the patient should consult their physician.

Stopping treatment with Depakine Chrono

Without consulting a physician, the patient should not discontinue treatment with Depakine Chrono or change the dose of the medicinal product.
In case of discontinuing treatment without consulting a physician, the patient's condition may worsen.

4. Possible side effects

Like all medicinal products, Depakine Chrono can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. Patients may need appropriate treatment for some side effects.

5. How to store Depakine Chrono

The medicinal product should be stored at a temperature below 25°C. Store in the original, tightly closed packaging to protect from light and moisture. The medicinal product should be stored in a place inaccessible and invisible to children. The medicinal product should not be used after the expiry date stated on the packaging. Medicines should not be disposed of via wastewater or household waste containers. The pharmacist should be asked how to dispose of unused medicinal products. This will help protect the environment.

6. Package contents and other information

What Depakine Chrono contains

Depakine Chrono 300 1 prolonged-release film-coated tablet contains as active substances: sodium valproate 200 mg, valproic acid 87 mg, which corresponds to a total of 300 mg of sodium valproate and excipients: ammonio methacrylate copolymer, ethylcellulose (20 mPa·s), hydrated silica. Film-coating: hypromellose (6 mPa·s), macrogol 6000, talc, titanium dioxide (E 171), polyacrylate 30%. Depakine Chrono 500 1 prolonged-release film-coated tablet contains as active substances: sodium valproate 333 mg, valproic acid 145 mg, which corresponds to a total of 500 mg of sodium valproate and excipients: ammonio methacrylate copolymer, ethylcellulose (20 mPa·s), hydrated silica. Film-coating: hypromellose (6 mPa·s), macrogol 6000, talc, titanium dioxide (E 171), polyacrylate 30%.

What Depakine Chrono looks like and what the pack contains

The pack contains 30 prolonged-release film-coated tablets of Depakine Chrono 300 or Depakine Chrono 500.

Marketing authorization holder and manufacturer

Marketing authorization holder: Sanofi Sp. z o.o. ul. Marcina Kasprzaka 6 01-211 Warsaw Manufacturer: Sanofi Aventis S.A. Ctra. C-35 (La Batlloria-Hostalric Km. 63.09) Riells i Viabrea, 17404 Girona Spain Sanofi-Winthrop Industrie 1 rue de la Vierge 33 440 Ambares France For more detailed information on this medicinal product, please contact the marketing authorization holder: Sanofi Sp. z o.o. ul. Marcina Kasprzaka 6 01-211 Warsaw tel.: +48 22 280 00 00 Date of last revision of the leaflet:December 2024

Other sources of information

Detailed and up-to-date information on this medicinal product is available by scanning the QR code on the leaflet and the outer packaging using a smartphone. The same information is also available on the website: www.qr.walproinianija.pl

  • Country of registration
  • Active substance
  • Prescription required
    Yes
  • Manufacturer
  • Importer
    Sanofi Aventis S.A. Sanofi Winthrop Industrie

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  • Injuries and trauma: bruises, fractures, sprains, soft tissue damage, wound care, dressing, referral when in-person care is required.
  • Oncological surgery: diagnosis review, treatment planning, and long-term follow-up.
  • Obesity treatment and weight management: a medical approach to weight loss, including assessment of underlying causes, evaluation of comorbidities, development of a personalised plan (nutrition, physical activity, pharmacotherapy if needed), and ongoing progress monitoring.
  • Imaging interpretation: analysis of ultrasound, CT, MRI, and X-ray results, surgical planning based on imaging data.
  • Second opinions and medical navigation: clarifying diagnoses, reviewing current treatment plans, helping patients choose the best course of action.

Experience and qualifications:

  • 12+ years of clinical experience in university hospitals in Germany and Spain.
  • International education: Ukraine – Germany – Spain.
  • Member of the German Society of Surgeons (BDC).
  • Certified in radiological diagnostics and robotic surgery.
  • Active participant in international medical conferences and research.

Dr Yakovenko explains complex topics in a clear, accessible way. He works collaboratively with patients to analyse health issues and make evidence-based decisions. His approach is grounded in clinical excellence, scientific accuracy, and respect for each individual.

If you are unsure about a diagnosis, preparing for surgery, or want to discuss your test results – Dr Yakovenko will help you evaluate your options and move forward with confidence.

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Doctor

Jonathan Marshall Ben Ami

Family medicine8 years of experience

Dr. Jonathan Marshall Ben Ami is a licensed family medicine doctor in Spain. He provides comprehensive care for adults and children, combining general medicine with emergency care expertise to address both acute and chronic health concerns.

Dr. Ben Ami offers expert diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up for:

  • Respiratory infections (cold, flu, bronchitis, pneumonia).
  • ENT conditions such as sinusitis, ear infections, and tonsillitis.
  • Digestive issues including gastritis, acid reflux, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
  • Urinary tract infections and other common infections.
  • Management of chronic diseases: high blood pressure, diabetes, thyroid disorders.
  • Acute conditions requiring urgent medical attention.
  • Headaches, migraines, and minor injuries.
  • Wound care, health check-ups, and ongoing prescriptions.

With a patient-focused and evidence-based approach, Dr. Ben Ami supports individuals at all stages of life — offering clear medical guidance, timely interventions, and continuity of care.

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5.0(4)
Doctor

Salome Akhvlediani

Pediatrics11 years of experience

Dr Salome Akhvlediani is a paediatrician providing online consultations for children of all ages. She supports families with preventive care, diagnosis, and long-term management of both acute and chronic conditions.

Her areas of focus include:

  • Fever, infections, cough, sore throat, and digestive issues.
  • Preventive care – vaccinations, regular check-ups, and health monitoring.
  • Allergies, asthma, and skin conditions.
  • Nutritional advice and healthy development support.
  • Sleep difficulties, fatigue, and behavioural concerns.
  • Ongoing care for chronic or complex health conditions.
  • Guidance for parents and follow-up after medical treatment.

Dr Akhvlediani combines professional care with a warm, attentive approach – helping children stay healthy and supporting parents at every stage of their child’s growth.

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