Look for Drugs and Conditions

VALPROIC ACID

VALPROIC ACID

Valproic Acid is an anticonvulsant medication primarily used to treat seizure disorders, bipolar disorder, and to prevent migraine headaches. It works by stabilizing electrical activity in the brain.

Indications

-Seizure Disorders: Used to control various types of seizures including generalized seizures and focal seizures. -Bipolar Disorder: Helps to stabilize mood in individuals with bipolar disorder. -Migraine Prevention: Used to reduce the frequency of migraine attacks.


Dosage

-Adults: Starting dose is usually 10-15 mg/kg/day, which can be increased to a maximum of 60 mg/kg/day. -Children: Dosage should be adjusted based on weight and clinical response.


Contra-Indications

Liver Disease: Not recommended for patients with liver disorders. -Pregnancy: Should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the risk to the fetus. -Allergy: Contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to valproic acid.


Special Precautions

-Monitoring: Regular liver function tests are advised due to potential liver toxicity. -Pregnancy: Use with caution and under strict medical supervision if pregnant. -Interaction with Other Drugs: Be cautious with drugs that affect liver metabolism.


Side Effects

-Common: Nausea, dizziness, weight gain, and tremors. -Serious: Liver damage, pancreatitis, blood disorders, and suicidal thoughts.


Drug Interactions

-Increased Risk of Toxicity: With other anticonvulsants, anticoagulants, and certain antidepressants. -Reduced Effectiveness: May interact with drugs that induce liver enzymes such as carbamazepine.


Ad 5