Medicine & USMLE

Valproic Acid

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Neuro Drugs
  1. Anticholinergic Syndrome
  2. Cholinergic Crisis
  3. Benztropine / Trihexyphenidyl
  4. Pyridostigmine, Neostigmine, Edrophonium
  5. Donepezil
  6. Memantine
  7. Scopolamine
  8. Levodopa, Carbidopa
  9. Selegiline / Rasagiline
  10. Entacapone / Tolcapone
  11. Propofol
  12. Halothane / Flurane
  13. Opioids
  14. Succinylcholine
  15. Lidocaine
  16. Ergotamine
  17. Triptans
  18. Pregabalin
  19. Gabapentin
  20. Ramelteon

Summary

Valproic acid, also called valproate, is an antiepileptic used to treat both seizures and bipolar disease. Valproic acid can cause hepatotoxicity, so monitor the patient’s liver enzymes. It is also teratogenic and should not be given to pregnant women.

Key Points

  • Valproic Acid / Valproate (Depakote)
    • Mechanism
      • Anticonvulsant/antiseizure
    • Clinical Use
      • Seizures
        • Tonic-clonic, absence, and partial seizures
      • Bipolar Disorder
        • Mood stabilizing effect
    • Side Effects and Adverse Reactions
      • Teratogenic
        • Can cause fetal birth defects (cleft lip and palate, spina bifida, etc.)
      • Hepatotoxicity
        • Monitor liver enzymes
      • Pancreatitis
        • Notify provider with symptoms of anorexia, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain