Two brands of anti-epilepsy medications are being withdrawn because they may fail to provide adequate dosages to patients, Health Canada has announced.

The recall applies to Depakene 500 mg, manufactured by Abbott Laboratories Ltd., and ratio-VALPROIC 500 mg, made by ratiopharm Inc.

Consumers taking these drugs should first speak with their doctor or pharmacist about alternative medications before they stop taking the recalled drugs.

The manufacturers say the capsules may not disintegrate correctly, causing a smaller amount of the active ingredient to be released. Patients could accordingly suffer increased frequency of seizures, injuries from falls, inhalation of fluid into the lungs and aspiration pneumonia.

Consumers should return the recalled medication to their pharmacist and contact Health Canada with any questions at 1-866-225-0709.