Sodium valproate and valproic acid belong to the class of anticonvulsant and mood-stabilizing medications. They were first discovered in 1882 by Beverly S. Burton but were not initially developed for medical use. In the 1960s, researchers identified its anticonvulsant properties, leading to its development as a treatment for epilepsy.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved valproic acid in 1978 for the treatment of epilepsy. Over the years, its indications have expanded to include bipolar disorder and migraine prophylaxis. It is now widely used globally for various neurological and psychiatric conditions.

Valproic acid is used to treat epilepsy, including various seizure types and epilepsy syndromes. Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent and unpredictable seizures, which are episodes of abnormal electrical activity in the brain leading to symptoms such as loss of consciousness, muscle spasms, convulsions, altered sensations, or changes in behavior. It can also be prescribed for neurological conditions like bipolar disorder and migraines.

Valproic acid is available in various forms, including oral tablets, capsules, and liquid formulations. The dosage and route of administration depend on the individual's condition, age, and response to treatment. Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate dose and duration of treatment based on your health condition and other factors. Do not self-administer or adjust the dosage without consulting your healthcare provider.

Common side effects may include:

• Diarrhea
• Stomach pain
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Dizziness
• Hearing problems
• Hair loss
• Changes in menstrual periods
• Breast enlargement
• Swelling of feet and legs
• Weight gain
• Agitation
• Tingling or numbness in hands and feet
• Muscle pain and weakness

Serious side effects may include:

• Severe blistering rash
• Liver problems
• Blood clotting problems
• Mood changes
• Memory loss
• Lack of concentration

• Do not use valproic acid if you are allergic to it or any of its ingredients.
• Avoid using this medication if you have a rare condition called porphyria, a history of severe liver problems, urea cycle disorder, or mitochondrial disorders such as Alpers-Huttenlocher syndrome.

• Before starting treatment, inform your physician if you have diabetes, kidney problems, brain disease, systemic lupus erythematosus, or a carnitine palmitoyltransferase type II deficiency.
• Women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception during treatment, as valproic acid can cause birth defects and developmental disorders in unborn babies.

• Alcohol can interact with valproic acid and potentially increase side effects like drowsiness. It's usually recommended to limit or avoid alcohol consumption while on this medication.
• Maintain a balanced diet and regular eating schedule. This medicine can affect appetite or cause weight gain, so it's important to discuss any dietary concerns with your doctor or a registered dietitian.

1. Desitin Arzneimittel GmbH, Electronic Medicines Compendium (EMC), [Revised on Dec 2021] [Accessed on 02 Sep 2023], https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.293.pdf
2. Hospira, Inc, US Food and Drug Administration, [Revised on July 2013] [Accessed on 02 Sep 2023], https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2013/020593s026lbl.pdf

The drug information on this page is not a substitute for medical advice; it is meant for educational purposes only. For further details, consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you are eligible to receive this treatment.