Valproic acid is a drug used to treat seizures due to epilepsy. It is also used in the treatment of bipolar disorder and the prevention of migraines. even so, valproic acid can not relieveheadacheDuring migraine attacks. This medicine should only be used according to a doctor's prescription.
Valproic acid affects the work of chemicals that carry electrical signals in the brain (neurotransmitter), namely by increasing concentration gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), so that electrical activity in the brain can be controlled and seizures can subside.
Valproic acid trademark: Lepsio, Procifer, Sodium Valproate, Valeptic, Valepsi, Valkene, Valpi, Valproic Acid
What IThat's Valproic Acid
| group | Prescription drugs |
| Category | Anticonvulsants |
| Benefit | Treats seizures due to epilepsy, treats bipolar disorder, and prevents migraines. |
| Consumed by | Adults and children 10 years old |
| Valproic acid for pregnant and lactating women | Category D: There is positive evidence of risks to the human fetus, but the benefits may outweigh the risks, for example in dealing with life-threatening situations. Category X when used to prevent migraines: Studies in experimental animals and humans have demonstrated fetal abnormalities or a risk to the fetus. Drugs in this category should not be used by women who are or may become pregnant. Valproic acid can be absorbed into breast milk. Breastfeeding mothers are advised to consult their doctor before taking this drug. |
| Shape | Syrup |
Warnings Before Taking Valproic Acid
Valproic acid should only be taken as prescribed by a doctor. Below are some things to consider before using valproic acid:
- Do not take valproic acid if you are allergic to valproic acid. Tell your doctor if you are allergic to divalproex sodium or sodium valproate.
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning a pregnancy. Valproic acid should not be given as a drug to prevent migraines in pregnant women.
- Tell your doctor if you have liver disease, kidney disease, inflammation of the pancreas, depression, bleeding disorders, dementia, malnutrition, CMV infection, HIV infection, alcoholism, or metabolic disorders, such as urea cycle disorder and Alpers-Huttenlocher syndrome.
- Tell your doctor if you are taking certain medications, supplements, or herbal products.
- Tell your doctor that you are on treatment with valproic acid before having any surgery, including dental surgery
- Limit activities that can increase the risk of a collision or injury, such as sports that involve physical contact, because valproic acid can increase the risk of developing blood clotting disorders.
- Do not drive a vehicle, operate heavy machinery, or do anything that requires alertness, after taking valproic acid, as this medicine can make you drowsy and dizzy.
- Do not consume alcoholic beverages while on treatment with valproic acid because it can increase the risk of side effects.
- Immediately see a doctor if while taking valproic acid you experience a very disturbing mood disorder or suicidal ideation occurs.
- See your doctor right away if you have an allergic drug reaction, serious side effect, or overdose after taking valproic acid.
Dose and Rules for Use of Valproic Acid
The dose of valproic acid will be determined by the doctor based on the patient's condition, age, weight, and body response to the drug. The following is a breakdown of common valproic acid dosages:
Condition: Seizures due to epilepsy
- Children aged 10 years to adults: The initial dose is 10-15 mg/kg body weight per day. The dose can be increased weekly to 5–10 mg/kg per day. The maximum dose is 60 mg/kg body weight per day.
Condition: The acute mania phase in people with bipolar disorder
- Mature: The initial dose is 750 mg per day, divided into several doses. The dose may be increased until the desired therapeutic response is achieved. Maximum dose: 60 mg/kg body weight per day.
Condition: Bipolar disorder
- Mature: 600–1,800 mg per day, divided into 2 meals.
Condition: Migraine prevention
- Mature: Initial dose 250 mg, 2 times a day. The maximum dose is 1000 mg per day.
The use of valproic acid in elderly patients (elderly) begins with small doses which are then increased slowly.
How to use Valproic Acid correctly
Use valproic acid as recommended by your doctor and don't forget to read the description on the package. Do not increase or decrease the dose without consulting your doctor first.
Take a dose of valproic acid syrup using the measuring spoon provided in the medicine package. Take valproic acid with meals to prevent heartburn.
If you forget to take valproic acid, take it immediately if the next schedule is not too close. Do not double the dose of valproic acid at the next schedule to make up for the missed dose.
If you want to stop taking valproic acid, don't do it suddenly. Discontinuation of the drug should be done gradually, according to the doctor's advice.
Check with the doctor regularly while taking valproic acid, so that the doctor can monitor the condition of the disease and the effectiveness of the drug.
Store valproic acid in a closed place in a cool, dry room. Keep the medicine away from heat and direct sunlight. Do not freeze this medicine and keep this medicine out of reach of children.
Valproic Acid Interactions with Other Drugs
Drug interactions can occur when valproic acid is used with certain drugs. Effects of drug interactions that can appear in the form of:
- Decreased valproic acid levels when used with carbapenem, doripenem, mefloquine, rifampicin, ethosuximide, cholestyramine, phenytoinprimidone, or anticancer drugs (antineoplastic drugs)
- Increased risk of developing inflammation of the pancreas when used with bexarotene
- Increased risk of liver damage when used with olanzapine
- Increased levels of valproic acid when used with aspirin or felbamate
- Elevated levels of amitriptyline, nimodipine, nifedipine, lamotrigine, phenobarbital, zidovudine, nortriptyline, or carbamazepine
- Increased risk of drug poisoning when used with bupropion
- Increased risk of occurrence absence seizure if used with clonazepam
- Increased risk of excess levels of ammonia in the body (hyperammonemia) when used with topiramate
Side effects and the Dangers of Valproic Acid
Side effects that can occur after taking valproic acid include:
- Dizziness or headache
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Drowsiness
- Hair loss
- Blurred or double vision
- Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
- Impaired coordination and movement
- Tremor
Call your doctor if the above side effects get worse or don't get better soon. Immediately see a doctor if an allergic reaction occurs to a drug or serious side effects occur, such as:
- Depression, confusion, or suicidal ideation
- Severe stomach pain, nausea or vomiting that doesn't go away, or loss of appetite
- Chest pain, heartbeat that feels too fast, slow, or irregular
- The body feels weak, faint, or loses consciousness
- Easy bruising
- Swollen hands and feet
- Uncontrolled eye movements (nystagmus)