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VALPROATE SIDE EFFECTS
Valproate sodium is used to help control seizures and treat
seizure disorders (complex partial seizures, absence
seizures, other seizures). It is usually used when the
patient cannot take the oral form of this drug (e.g.,
valproic acid). Valproic acid, volproate sodium, and
divalproex belong to the group of medicines called
anticonvulsants. These medications are used to control
certain types of seizures in the treatment of epilepsy.
Valproic acid, valproate sodium, and divalproex may be used
alone or with other available seizure medicines. Divalproex
is also used to treat the manic phase of bipolar disorder
(manic-depressive illness), and also to help prevent
migraine headaches. The side effects of using Volproate
sodium includes:
CNS: Occasionally sedation (especially if given as
part of polytherapy), ataxia and tremor. Rarely stupor,
lethargy, convulsions, coma, an increase in alertness with
possible progression to aggression and acute pancreatitis.
Hepatic: Liver dysfunction, including liver failure
resulting in death. Most at risk are children aged fewer
than 3, those with mental retardation, organic brain disease
or metabolic disorders. The clinical symptoms of the early
stages of hepatic failure include malaise, lethargy,
anorexia, loss of seizure control, drowsiness, abdominal
pain and vomiting and any of these symptoms necessitate
immediate withdrawal of the drug and investigation.
Gastrointestinal: Increased appetite with associated
weight gain is the most common side effect Nausea has been
reported but is alleviated by taking the dose after food
Metabolic: Transient hyperammonaemia may occur, if
associated with a decreased level of consciousness, vomiting
and ataxia the drug should be stopped immediately.
Haematological: Reversible prolongation of bleeding
time (an increased INR) and thrombocytopenia occur
occasionally, especially at higher doses. This should be
checked well before surgery as well as before and after
initiating therapy. If spontaneous bleeding or easy bruising
occurs the drug should be stopped.
Dermatological: Transient hair loss and rashes have
been reported.
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