Sodium Valproate
Uses of Sodium Valproate
Sodium Valproate is commonly used in the treatment of bipolar disorder, epilepsy, migraine and seizures
How Sodium Valproate Works
Sodium Valproate is an anti-convulsant that works by increasing the gamma amino-butyric acid (GABA), an inhibitory neurotransmitter to brain neurons. It has enhancement effect on the action of GABA and also mimic its action at postsynaptic receptor sites.
Side Effects of Sodium Valproate
Nausea, Vomiting, Diarrhea, Liver injury, Tremor, Headache, Somnolence, Confusion, Hallucination, Hypersensitivity
Warnings
Kidney Use With Care
Sodium Valproate should be used with caution in patients with renal impairment. Dose adjustment is indicated based on clinical monitoring.
Alcohol Not Advisable
It is not advisable to consume alcohol with Sodium Valproate as the former can worsen central nervous system and cause side effects such as dizziness, drowsiness and impaired concentrations.
Pregnancy Not Safe - High Risk
Sodium Valproate is associated with congenital malformations and developmental disorders based on available human studies, however, it can still be used if no other alternative is suitable.
Driving Not advisable
Do not drive unless you are feeling well. Sodium Valproate may cause side effects such as brief drowsiness which could affect the ability to concentrate and drive.
Liver Limited Data
It has been reported that Sodium Valproate may cause fatalities in patients with liver dysfunction, even though the incident is quite rare.
Lactation Limited Data
Valproate is excreted in human breast milk with a concentration of 1% to 10% of serum levels in mother. Hematological disorders in breastfed infants of mother on treatment has been found. The decision to discontinue Sodium Valproate or breastfeeding should be balance by the benefits of breastfeeding to the infant or benefits of treatment to the mother.
Frequently Asked Questions
Written by Dr Sri Viknarajan, MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)
Reviewed by Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli, MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).
