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My girlfriend takes epilim 500 & 300. Ive noticed some light tremors during her sleep and she wakes up alot in a fright. Could these be side effects of the drug? What are the implications of weaning off these pills? Can it be done if she hasn t had an epileptic episode for a year?
Welcome to HCM I appreciate your concern for your girlfriend. Tremors, confusion, agitation and aggression can occur as side effects of Epilim ( Sodium Valproate). Since she is taking Epilim for epilepsy ( there are other indications also for epilim), she should be at least 2-5 years without any seizure to think of tapering the drug and stopping it. The risk of relapse then is about 20 - 25 %. Earlier tapering and stopping increases risk i.e 40% or more She should be reviewed by her neurologist who might suggest another drug if the symptoms are intolerable. Wish her the best, Dr Noble Zachariah
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Does Epilim Cause Tremors During Sleep?
Hello, Welcome to HCM I appreciate your concern for your girlfriend. Tremors, confusion, agitation and aggression can occur as side effects of Epilim ( Sodium Valproate). Since she is taking Epilim for epilepsy ( there are other indications also for epilim), she should be at least 2-5 years without any seizure to think of tapering the drug and stopping it. The risk of relapse then is about 20 - 25 %. Earlier tapering and stopping increases risk i.e 40% or more She should be reviewed by her neurologist who might suggest another drug if the symptoms are intolerable. Wish her the best, Dr Noble Zachariah