Valproic Acid
Valproic acid is a chemical compound and clinically used as an anticonvulsant, epilepsy, bipolar disorders and mood-stabilizing drug by increasing brain concentration of GABA. Its anticonvulsant properties discovered by Pierre Eymard serendipitously when he use it as a vehicle for the number of compounds. Valproic acid is also an inhibitor of enzyme histone deacetylase 1. This enzyme is needed for HIV to remain in infected cells. thus use for the treatment of HIV and AIDS.
Primary Characteristics
It belongs to carboxalic acid.
Molecular Weight: 144.21 · pKa: 4.8 · Solubility in Water: Soluble · Solubility in Alcohol: Soluble · Non-proprietary name: Valproic Acid.
Pharmacokinetics
Distribution: Valproic Acid has a volume of distribution is 0.2 lit/kg. plasma protein binding is 81.5% - 90%.
Elimination: it is metabolised via 30-50%, plasma half-life is 9-16 hours, renal excretion is < 3%.
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Indications
Valproic Acid is primarily indicated in conditions like Bipolar disorders, Epilepsy, Seizures.
Valproic Acid is also indicated for secondary conditions like Migraine, Schizophrenia, Status epilepticus.
Contraindications
Valproic Acid is contraindicated in conditions like Bone marrow depression, Coagulation disorder.
Dosage
Valproic Acid's dosage details are as follows:
| Dose | Single Dose | Frequency | Route | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult Dosage | ||||
| 27.5 mg/kg/d | 27.5 mg/kg/d | — | oral,parenteral | |
| Paediatric Dosage (20kg) | ||||
| No data. | ||||
| Neonatal Dosage (3kg) | ||||
| No data. | ||||
Drug Interactions
Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.
Side Effects
Valproic Acid in overdosage may give rise to further complications which include Hepatotoxicity , Hepatitis , Tremors .
Valproic Acid is known to cause more or less tolerable side effects which are usually transient. These include Dizziness, Dyspepsia , Fatigue, Hair loss, Nausea, Weight gain.
Warnings / Precautions
Available Brands
Storage Conditions
Drug Classification
- 1.5 — Anticonvulsants and Antiepileptics