Orfiril Side Effects

Orfiril, also recognized as Valproic Acid or Valproate Sodium, is a drug that is used to treat and prevent seizures. Use of this drug may lead to a variety of side effects ranging in severity based on the particular case, individual and dosage.

Identification

• Orfiril, an international brand-name drug, is used to treat a variety of disorders which cause involuntary seizures in the body. The drug affects particular chemicals in the brain to prevent the onset of convulsions. Orfiril is often used in conjunction with other medications to keep the seizures in control. Other uses for Orfiril may be determined by your doctor.

Common Side Effects

• Common side effects that are associated with the use of Orfiril include diarrhea, constipation, nausea, upset stomach, headache, mild hair loss, mild insomnia, weight gain, sore throat, dizziness and mild stomach pain. Though not generally a cause for concern, contact your doctor if any of these side effects worsen or persist.

Severe Side Effects

• According to Drugs.com, severe side effects which may arise as a result of using Orfiril include "...abnormal thinking; behavior changes; blurred vision or other vision changes; change in menstrual period; change in the amount of urine produced; chest pain; confusion; dark urine; fast or irregular heartbeat; fever, chills, or persistent sore throat; general feeling of being unwell; hallucinations; hearing loss; joint or muscle pain or weakness; loss of coordination; memory loss; mental or mood changes (eg, depression, nervousness); pale stools; red, swollen, or blistered skin; ringing in the ears; severe or persistent nausea, vomiting, or loss of appetite; severe or persistent stomach pain or cramps; sluggishness; suicidal thoughts or actions; swelling of the arms or legs; swollen lymph nodes; tremor; trouble speaking or walking; uncontrolled muscle movements; unusual bleeding or bruising; unusual tiredness or weakness; yellowing of the skin or eyes." Seek medical attention if any of the above side effects ever occur.

Use

• Always be sure to follow your prescription as provided by your doctor. Taking Orfiril for a longer time or in larger amounts than recommended could result in severe side effects. Orfiril tablets should be taken orally with a full eight ounce glass of water and with or without food. Drugs.com reports that the drug is most effective when taken at the same time each day. Do not stop using Orfiril without first consulting your doctor.

Warning

• Never take a double dose of this medication to compensate for a missed or skipped dose. Using alcohol while taking Orfiril can increase the side effects of dizziness and drowsiness. Use with caution in the elderly and young children. Discuss the hazards of using Orfiril while pregnant with your doctor before starting treatment.