Sodium Valproate
Generic Details
Generic Name
Sodium Valproate
Other Names
- Valproate Sodium
- Valproic Acid Sodium Salt
Drug Class
- Anticonvulsant
- Mood Stabilizer
Chemical Formula
C8H15O2Na
Molecular Weight
166.19 g/mol
Mechanism of Action
- Enhances GABAergic activity
- Blocks voltage-gated sodium channels
Indications
- Epilepsy
- Bipolar disorder
- Migraine prophylaxis
Common Dosage Forms
- Tablet
- Extended-release tablet
- Syrup
- Injection
Typical Dosage
- Start with 500mg-1000mg daily in divided doses
- Adjust as needed up to 60mg/kg/day
Pediatric Dosage
- 2-3 years: 10-15mg/kg/day
- 4-6 years: 20-30mg/kg/day
Geriatric Dosage
- Start at lower end of dosing range due to potential for reduced hepatic function
Side Effects
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Tremor
- Weight gain
Contraindications
- Hepatic impairment
- Urea cycle disorders
Pregnancy Category
- D - Positive evidence of risk
Lactation Safety
- Present in breast milk, monitor infant for drowsiness and adequate weight gain
Drug Interactions
- Carbamazepine
- Phenobarbital
- Warfarin
- Lamotrigine
Overdose Symptoms
- Coma
- Respiratory depression
- Metabolic acidosis
Antidote for Overdose
- No specific antidote, manage symptoms and provide supportive care
Storage Conditions
- Store at room temperature away from light and moisture
Pharmacokinetics
- Absorption: Rapid and complete from the gastrointestinal tract
- Distribution: Crosses the blood-brain barrier and placenta, present in breast milk
- Metabolism: Hepatic, via glucuronidation and mitochondrial beta-oxidation
- Excretion: Primarily renal
Precautions
- Monitor liver function tests periodically
- Caution in patients with history of pancreatitis
Warnings
- Hepatotoxicity
- Pancreatitis
- Teratogenicity
Others
- May cause alopecia