The mechanism of Valproic acid’s activity is not yet known, although it seems to depend partly on the increased synthesis and degradation in the brain’s GABA acid (gamma amino butyric acid), thus increasing the levels of this inhibitory neurotransmitter. In association with sodium salt, it reduces the excitability and neurons with high-frequency discharges. The result is an increased sedation and decreased neuronal excitation.
What is Valproic acid?
VPA is an anticonvulsant drug whose sodium salt and amide derivatives are used for the treatment of different forms of epilepsy, both generalized and partial. It is also used to treat certain mood disorders (manic disorders, bipolar disorder).
How should Valproic acid be taken?
This drug takes effect when it is administered orally in the form of tablets or granules for solution or when it is administered intravenously.
Side effects associated with Valproic acid
This drug is considered one of the more aggressive anti-epileptic drugs because in addition to acting on the nervous system, it also acts in the brain. Some of the most important side effects that can arise from inducing this drug include the following:
- Gastrointestinal disorders: nausea , vomiting , gingivitis, stomatitis, abdominal pain, diarrhea (especially at the beginning of treatment), hyper salivation , pancreatitis;
- Hepatobiliary disorders: serious hepatic dysfunction;
- Metabolism and nutritional disorders: hyponatremia, dose-dependent increase, weight loss, increased appetite, loss of appetite;
- Musculoskeletal disorders: muscle weakness, movement disorders;
- Nervous system disorders: tremor , paresthesia , extrapyramidal disorders (inability to sit still, stiffness, tremors, slow movements, involuntary movements, muscle twitching), drowsiness, convulsions, short memory, headache , nystagmus, spasticity, ataxia, coma, encephalopathy, lethargy, reversible parkinsonism, cognitive disorders;
- Psychiatric disorders: confusion, hallucinations, aggression, attention disorders, irritability, hyperactivity and confusion;
- Lymphatic system disorders: anemia, thrombocytopenia, neutropenia, leucopenia or pancytopenia, hypoplasia of the red blood cells, peripheral edema, bleeding
- Skin disorders and subcutaneous tissue disorders: hypersensitivity, transient alopecia, angioedema, rash, hair disorders, rash , allergic reactions;
- Reproductive system disorders and breast disorders: elevated testosterone levels, dysmenorrhea, amenorrhea, and male infertility;
- Vascular disorders: hemorrhage, vasculitis, coagulation disorders;
- Ear disorders: deafness, tinnitus;
- Kidney and urinary tract disorders: kidney failure, enuresis, tubulointerstitial nephritis;
- Immune system disorders: Systemic lupus erythematous, rhabdomyolysis.
Contraindications and warnings associated with the use of Valproic acid
Several drugs can increase or decrease the bioavailability of Valproic acid. Above are mentioned the other anticonvulsant drugs that can be used in association with Valproic acid for the treatment of epilepsy. Prior to administration of this drug, an accurate examination must be done to determine the proper function of the liver, blood and coagulation. Optimal therapeutic concentration is individual and depends on the liver and kidney function. As for the administration of Valproic acid in pregnancy, you should consider the benefits for maternal health resulting from the use of this drug against the risks to the fetus. VPA can cause side effects in nursing infants and therefore, you must decide whether you wish to stop breast-feeding or proceed with treatment with this medicine.
