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Sodium valproate 500 mg (controlled release): uses, price & cheaper substitutes

Prescription required (Schedule H)

Common uses: Epilepsy – generalised seizures (tonic-clonic, absence, myoclonic) and focal seizures; Bipolar disorder – treating mania and preventing relapses.

Listed MRPs range from ₹3.94 to ₹9.98 per tablet across 8 listings. Use only on a doctor's prescription.

Price comparison

NPPA ceiling price: ₹9.50 / 1 tablet (NPPA Pharma Sahi Daam – ceiling price, S.O. 1575(E) dated 25-Mar-2026, 19 October 2026)
BrandManufacturerPackMRP₹ / tabletAs on
Sodium Valproate 333mg and Valproic acid 145mg Controlled Release TabletsJan AushadhiJan Aushadhi (PMBJP)10₹39.38₹3.9419 October 2026
Torvate 500 CRTorrent Pharmaceuticals Ltd10₹58.15₹5.8119 October 2026
Valpex 500 CRAlkem Laboratories Ltd10₹92.12₹9.2119 October 2026
Valparin Chrono 500Sanofi India Ltd15₹148.68₹9.9119 October 2026
Encorate Chrono 500Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd10₹99.11₹9.9119 October 2026
Valtec CR 500Cipla Ltd10₹99.11₹9.9119 October 2026
Epilex Chrono 500Abbott15₹149.62₹9.9719 October 2026
Valprol-CR 500Intas Pharmaceuticals Ltd15₹149.63₹9.9819 October 2026

MRPs as printed/listed on the date shown; actual price may vary.

Uses

  • Epilepsy – generalised seizures (tonic-clonic, absence, myoclonic) and focal seizures.
  • Bipolar disorder – treating mania and preventing relapses.
  • Preventing migraine in people with frequent attacks.

How to take it

Take the controlled-release (CR/Chrono) tablet once a day, or twice a day about 12 hours apart if your dose is high, at the same times each day. Swallow it whole with water – do not chew or crush, as this breaks the slow-release coating. Take it with or just after food to avoid stomach upset, and do it the same way every day. Your doctor will start low and increase gradually, with liver function and platelet tests. Never stop suddenly, because seizures can return worse. Women and girls must discuss contraception and pregnancy before starting.

Side effects

Common

  • Stomach pain, nausea or diarrhoea.
  • Sleepiness or tiredness.
  • Weight gain.
  • Hair thinning or change in hair texture.
  • Tremor of the hands.
  • Irregular periods.

Serious

Stop and get medical help urgently if you notice any of these.

  • Liver damage – yellow eyes or skin, dark urine, vomiting, extreme tiredness; most likely in the first 6 months.
  • Pancreatitis – severe stomach pain with vomiting.
  • Unusual bruising or bleeding (low platelets).
  • Thoughts of self-harm or a sudden change in mood.
  • Confusion or unusual drowsiness (high ammonia).

Safety information

Alcohol

Avoid alcohol. It increases drowsiness and liver strain and can trigger seizures.

Pregnancy

Valproate causes birth defects and long-term learning and behaviour problems in children exposed in the womb. Girls and women who could become pregnant should take it only when no other medicine works, with reliable contraception and specialist review. Tell your doctor at once if pregnant.

Kidney problems

Dose may need lowering in kidney disease; tell your doctor.

Liver problems

Do not take if you have active liver disease or a family history of serious liver problems. Liver tests are needed before and during treatment.

Children

Used for childhood epilepsy under a paediatric neurologist; liver risk is highest under 2 years and with multiple epilepsy medicines.

Missed dose

Once-daily: take it when you remember unless it is within a few hours of the next dose. Twice-daily: take it unless the next dose is nearly due. Never double the dose; missed doses can trigger a seizure.

Interactions

  • Aspirin (Ecosprin) – raises valproate levels; avoid regular use without advice.
  • Carbamazepine, phenytoin – lower valproate levels; combinations need monitoring.
  • Lamotrigine – valproate raises its levels and the risk of a serious rash; dose must be adjusted.
  • Meropenem, imipenem – drop valproate levels sharply and seizures can return.
  • Topiramate – more confusion from high ammonia.
  • Sleeping tablets, alprazolam, sedating antihistamines – more drowsiness.

Frequently asked questions

Valparin Chrono 500 should be taken before or after food?

After food. Taking it with or just after a meal reduces nausea and stomach pain. Keep the same routine every day so absorption stays steady.

Can I cut Valparin Chrono 500 in half?

Chrono/CR tablets are slow-release. Some are scored and can be halved along the line but must never be crushed or chewed. Ask your pharmacist about your specific brand.

Valparin Chrono vs Encorate Chrono – which is better?

Both contain the same sodium valproate plus valproic acid combination in a controlled-release form. They work the same; stick to one brand so your blood level stays stable.

Is Valparin Chrono safe in pregnancy?

No. Valproate carries a high risk of birth defects and developmental problems. Women who could become pregnant need effective contraception and should discuss alternatives with their neurologist before planning a baby.

Can I take Valparin Chrono 500 with alcohol?

Avoid alcohol completely. It adds to drowsiness and liver strain and lowers your seizure threshold.

Does Encorate Chrono cause weight gain and hair fall?

Both are common. Hair usually regrows, and weight can be managed with diet. Tell your doctor if either troubles you; zinc or biotin is sometimes suggested for hair, and alternatives exist for some conditions.

Which blood tests are needed on sodium valproate?

Liver function and platelet count before starting and periodically, especially in the first 6 months. Your doctor may also check valproate levels and ammonia if you are drowsy or seizures continue.

What if I miss a dose of Valparin Chrono?

Take it when you remember unless the next dose is within a few hours. Do not double up. Missed doses are a common cause of breakthrough seizures, so use an alarm.

Is sodium valproate 500 available at Jan Aushadhi?

Yes, sodium valproate 500 mg is listed under Jan Aushadhi and is NPPA price-controlled. Ask whether the generic is a controlled-release form, as plain tablets need to be taken more often.

Sources

Medyzen Editorial Team · Last updated

This page is general information, not medical advice. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without asking a doctor or pharmacist. Terms