Valproic acid (2-propylpentanoic acid; VPA) is a branched-chain carboxylic acid introduced as an anti-epileptic drug in 1978 in the United States.
The aim of the present study was to explore the factors related to the severity of the adverse effects of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs), experienced by p… The most serious side effects due to valproic acid are liver injury, pancreatitis and abnormal bleeding. Liver injury is most common in the first 6 months of treatment. Common side effects may include: nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, diarrhea; dizziness, drowsiness, weakness; headache; tremors, problems with walking or coordination; blurred vision, double vision; hair loss; or changes in appetite, weight gain.

Oxidative stress has been proven to be involved in VPA-induced toxicity. Valproic acid (VPA) is ubiquitously used as a major drug in the intervention of epilepsy and in the control of several kinds of seizures. Important historical information in the patient with suspected valproic acid (VPA) poisoning includes: Identity of … Antiseizure drugs: Mechanism of action, pharmacology, and adverse effects View in … Relevant Topics. David N. Osser, MD. It is used to treat partial and generalized seizures and acute mania, and as prophylaxis for bipolar disorder and migraine headaches.

Valproate/divalproex appears to be considerably overused in the US; the use of lithium, second-generation antipsychotics, and carbamazepine should be more prominent in treatment decisions for patients with bipolar mania.

Cellular toxicities are the serious dose-limiting side effects of VPA when applied in the treatment of diseases.


Valproic Acid: Its Role in Bipolar Disorder. Depakote can significantly decrease the elimination of the following, which can lead to toxicity: lamotrigine, ethosuximide, diazepam, zidovudine, and phenobarbital.

Valproic acid is an 8-carbon 2-chain fatty acid that is metabolized by the liver and processed at a variable rate based on the patient’s liver function and age, in addition to patient’s other routine medications with which valproic acid may interact.

Valproic acid may help to control your condition but will not cure it.

Do not stop taking valproic acid without talking to your doctor, even if you experience side effects such as unusual changes in behavior or mood or if you find out that you are pregnant. Purpose: We performed this study to evaluate the long-term efficacy and tolerability of ethosuximide (ESX), valproic acid (VPA), and lamotrigine (LTG) as initial monotherapies for patients with newly diagnosed childhood absence epilepsy.

Continue to take valproic acid even if you feel well.