Epilim Vs Orlept

[hiddenone]

If sodium valproate EC tablets are being prescribed for epilepsy and the patient has always been dispensed Epilim against the Rx, can Orlept now be alternatively dispensed? When labeling Rx's for sodium valproate written generically, Orlept has been sent in instead of the usually dispensed Epilim. A colleague of mine is under the impression that only Epilim should be dispensed but after looking at the SPC's for both I'm a bit confused. Anyone able to help?

[Sir_Dispensalot]

epilim and orlept have slightly different bioavailabilities. Most epilepsy sufferers can easily take either with no problems but those with borderline seizure control may encounter problems if switched brand, so it's best to keep patients on the same brand of valproate. ppa used to pay for the brand used if it was endorsed properly. I think it's still the case now but i could be wrong.

[johnep]

Dr will have to prescribe by brand name if expects us to give Epilim on a generic script. 'Oh! but I will lose my generic bonus will be the cry'. No tears ever shed for us losing out by dispensing a brand against generic script.
johnep

[bobbin]

PPA used to pay for the brand used if it was endorsed properly. I think it's still the case now but i could be wrong.

Nope, sodium valproate 200mg and 500mg tablets are in Part 8 of the Drug Tariff (Category M products). You will be paid the DT price regardless of what you endorse. This is one of the many products where no endorsement is needed because it will not affect payment. If Epilim is required for clinical reasons, the script should be for Epilim. The PPD work based on strict rules... there's no "well the patient might need that brand so we'll pay for it". They are not in the habit of being generous! I've worked at a few pharmacies where most scripts are written generically but all patients are given Epilim. Such pharmacies will lose a lot of money.

At my pharmacy, all generic scripts for valproate 200mg and 500mg are filled with Orlept. This ensures that patients remain on the same generic ie. we do not switch them to other generics from different manufacturers. I feel this consistency may improve safety and is financially viable since Orlept is an acceptable price and is virtually never out of stock.

Modified-release valproate is not in the DT. An endorsement is required or else the script will be returned. Don't forget to endorse 'Epilim Chrono' if your computer system does not do so automatically.