Abstract: The present invention provides a process for the preparation of coated sustained release tablets of sodium valproate having a moderate weight and volume, for once-a-day therapy, comprising- (a) providing a core comprising sodium valproate and pharmaceutically acceptable excipients, (b) providing a first coating layer comprising a polymer selected from the group consisting of water-insoluble polymers, pH depedent polymers or a mixture thereof,and (c) providing a second coating layer comprising a water-insoluble polymer.