dose

Last reviewed 01/2018

• dose in epilepsy:- Adult daily dose 100-200 mg. Serum half-life is 12 to 15 hours, so it is given 1-2 times a day. Dose increased slowly to the usual dose of 0.8-1.2g per day in divided doses. In some instances a dose of as high as 1.6g may be required.

• dose in bipolar affective disorder is initially 400mg daily in divided doses, increased until the symptoms are controlled - usually at about 400 to 600mg per day.

Note that initial drowsiness is common but can be avoided by starting with a small dose (100 to 200 mg/day) and increasing gradually over several weeks.

The summary of product characteristics should be consulted before prescribing this drug.