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Valproic Acid - Indications, Dosage, Side Effects and Precautions

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Valproic Acid Medication Information

Learn everything you need to know about Valproic Acid-pronunciation, uses, dosage guidelines, indications, and when to take or avoid it.

Get up-to-date information on side effects, precautions, warnings, and proper storage to ensure safe usage.

Explore Valproic Acid brand names commonly used in India and internationally, along with detailed pricing information. Consult your healthcare provider for tailored medical advice.

Generic Name : Valproic Acid
Pronunciation : val- proe'- ik
ICD Code : Y46.5 Therapeutic Classification : Anticonvulsants

Brand Names or Trade Names of Valproic Acid

India :

International :


Depakene, Depakote, Depakote ER, Depakote Sprinkle, Stavzor

Why is Valproic Acid Prescribed? (Indications)

This medication is an anticonvulsant, prescribed for epilepsy, bipolar disorder, and rarely for depression. It works by increasing the amount of a certain chemical in the brain.

When should Valproic Acid not be taken? (Contraindications)

Contraindicated in patients with known urea cycle disorders and hypersensitivity.

What is the dosage of Valproic Acid?

PO- The initial recommended dose is 15 mg/kg/day. The dosage should be increased by 5 to 10 mg/kg/week.

How should Valproic Acid be taken?

It comes as a tablet, capsule, and liquid to take by mouth, with or without food.

What are the warnings and precautions for Valproic Acid?

• Caution should be exercised in patients with history of urea cycle disorder, vomiting, tiredness, irritability, confusion, loss of ability to think, coma, mental retardation, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), increased blood cholesterol, kidney disease, any allergy, during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

• It may cause dizziness, drowsiness or vision changes, do not drive a car or operate machinery while taking this medication.

• Avoid alcohol consumption.

• Patient may develop with increased risk of suicidal thoughts; watch them carefully.

• It may affect platelet counts; avoid injury or bruising.

What are the side effects of Valproic Acid?

Body as a Whole - Headache, weakness and fever.
Gastrointestinal - Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, loss of appetite, indigestion, heartburn and constipation.
Central Nervous System - Drowsiness, tremor, dizziness, blurred vision, incoordination, night blindness, emotional lability, abnormal thinking and memory loss.
Musculoskeletal - Muscle pain/twitching, joint pain and leg cramps.
Miscellaneous - Flu syndrome, infection, lung inflammation, runny nose, hair loss and weight loss.

What are the other precautions for Valproic Acid?

Avoid excess dosage.

What are the storage conditions for Valproic Acid?

Store it at room temperature.

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