Side Effects of valproic acid: A Synthesis of Findings from 19 Studies

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Original Abstract of the Article

Main Research Findings

Valproic acid is a widely used drug for treating epilepsy and bipolar disorder. However, it is associated with various side effects, raising concerns about its safety. Numerous studies have investigated the side effects of valproic acid, revealing a wide range of potential adverse outcomes. This article summarizes the latest research on valproic acid's side effects, explaining their mechanisms, mitigation strategies, and the need for further research.

Reasons for Side Effects

Valproic acid works by regulating the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain, thus controlling seizures and mood fluctuations. However, like any medication, it can interact with various organs and tissues, potentially leading to side effects. While the exact mechanisms underlying these side effects are not entirely understood, several contributing factors are considered:

  • Valproic acid is metabolized in the liver and eliminated from the body, but it can put a strain on this organ.
  • Valproic acid can impact the functionality of nerve cells.
  • Valproic acid might affect hormone secretion.

Common Side Effects

Liver dysfunction

Valproic acid can burden the liver, potentially causing liver dysfunction. This side effect is reported to occur in approximately 1% of individuals taking valproic acid. 1

Gastrointestinal symptoms

Valproic acid may lead to gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. 15

Blood abnormalities

Valproic acid can trigger blood abnormalities such as thrombocytopenia and leukopenia. 1

Nervous system symptoms

Valproic acid can cause nervous system symptoms including dizziness, drowsiness, and impaired consciousness. 1

Metabolic abnormalities

Valproic acid might contribute to metabolic abnormalities such as weight gain, hyperglycemia, and hyperlipidemia. 1

Other side effects

Valproic acid can also cause hair loss, skin rashes, and allergic reactions. 1

Countermeasures for Side Effects

Liver dysfunction

To prevent liver dysfunction, conducting liver function tests before starting valproic acid is crucial. 1

Gastrointestinal symptoms

To alleviate gastrointestinal symptoms, taking valproic acid with meals and ensuring adequate hydration after consumption are recommended. 15

Blood abnormalities

To prevent blood abnormalities, regular blood tests during valproic acid treatment are essential. 1

Nervous system symptoms

Consult a doctor if nervous system symptoms arise. Adjustments to the valproic acid dosage or a switch to a different medication might be necessary. 1

Metabolic abnormalities

To prevent metabolic abnormalities, dietary and exercise programs are vital. Consult a doctor if you have a history of diabetes. 1

Comparison between Studies

Common points of studies

Numerous studies agree that valproic acid can cause various side effects.

Differences between studies

The frequency and severity of valproic acid's side effects may vary across studies. This could be attributed to factors such as the age, gender, dosage, and concomitant medications of the study subjects.

Points to Note Regarding Application to Real Life

Valproic acid effectively treats epilepsy and bipolar disorder, but it carries the risk of various side effects. It is crucial to strictly follow your doctor's instructions and be vigilant for potential side effects when taking valproic acid. Seek medical advice immediately if you experience any concerning symptoms.

Limitations of Current Research

Despite extensive research on valproic acid's side effects, several aspects remain unclear. The exact mechanisms by which valproic acid causes side effects are not fully understood. Additionally, the wide individual variability in the incidence and severity of valproic acid's side effects makes accurate prediction challenging.

Future Research Directions

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of valproic acid's side effects, further research is needed. Specifically, research focusing on unraveling the mechanisms of side effects and developing predictive models for their occurrence is vital. Furthermore, the development of new treatment strategies to mitigate the side effects of valproic acid is highly desirable.

Conclusion

Valproic acid effectively treats epilepsy and bipolar disorder but carries the risk of various side effects. It is essential to follow your doctor's instructions closely and be attentive to potential side effects when taking valproic acid. Consult a doctor immediately if you experience any concerning symptoms. Further research is necessary for a deeper understanding of these side effects.

Literature analysis of 19 papers
Positive Content
12
Neutral Content
1
Negative Content
6
Article Type
1
0
0
1
16
1.

Valproate-Associated Transaminitis and Rhabdomyolysis.

Author: SharmaAnupam, SanchezJeannlis, DewMadison, ShergillGursimran

Rhabdomyolysis
Transaminitis

This case report describes a 24-year-old man who developed mild transaminitis and rhabdomyolysis within 24 hours of initiating valproic acid treatment for a seizure episode. Cessation of the drug led to the resolution of the elevated creatinine kinase and transaminase levels.

Case ReportsIn the medical field, a report that describes in detail a unique case, an unusual medical condition, or the effect of a treatment. Provides new insights and possibilities for treatment through individual patient cases.

Language : English

2.

When the fever will not stop, stop the pills! A case report.

Author: MatosCésar Ricardo Coimbra de, BeirãoEduarda Maria da Conceição Sério Pereira, NevesRafael Simões, AssunçãoAntónio José, MarquesRui Moreira

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) is a rare, potentially fatal neurologic emergency associated with antipsychotics. It's most common with first-generation antipsychotics and less common with second-generation ones. Diagnosis relies on clinical and laboratory criteria and ruling out other conditions.

Case ReportsIn the medical field, a report that describes in detail a unique case, an unusual medical condition, or the effect of a treatment. Provides new insights and possibilities for treatment through individual patient cases.

Language : English

5.

Selenium, zinc, and copper changes with valproic acid: possible relation to drug side effects.

Author: HurdR W, Van RinsveltH A, WilderB J, KarasB, MaenhautW, De ReuL

Hepatotoxicity
Trace metal depletion

Valproic acid (VPA) was found to deplete zinc and selenium in the plasma of rats. Patients treated chronically with VPA also had decreased plasma selenium levels. These findings suggest that VPA may alter trace metal status and could contribute to VPA-associated hepatotoxicity in children.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

8.

HDACi Delivery Systems Based on Cellulose Valproate Nanoparticles.

Author: LindemannHenry, KühneMarie, KoschellaAndreas, GodmannMaren, HeinzelThorsten, HeinzeThomas

Controlled release
Reduced side effects
Targeted drug delivery
HDACi side effects
Rapid metabolization
Short serum half-life

Valproic acid (VPA), a histone deacetylase inhibitor, was successfully immobilized on cellulose nanoparticles. This approach may improve the delivery of VPA to diseased tissues and reduce side effects.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

10.

A pharmacovigilance study on antiepileptic medications in a paediatric hospital in Italy.

Author: Monti GuarnieriNicoletta, PompilioAdriana, MariniCarla, OrtenziGiovanni Battista, AndrescianiEmanuela, GarzoneAngela Maria Felicita, IeracitanoMaria Consuelo, PolidoriCarlo

ASM safety profile
Adverse drug reactions

Antiseizure medications (ASMs) are the standard treatment for epilepsy. This study created a database to assess the safety profile of ASMs used in a pediatric hospital and to document adverse drug reactions (ADRs).

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

13.

Comparison of the effect of continuous intravenous infusion of sodium valproate and midazolam on management of status epilepticus in children.

Author: AbbaskhanianAli, SheidaeeKobra, CharatiJamshid Yazdani

Status epilepticus treatment

This study compared the efficacy and side effects of continuous intravenous infusion of sodium valproate versus midazolam as a third-line treatment of status epilepticus in children.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

16.

Valproate overdose leading to hyperammonaemic encephalopathy.

Author: SharmaDeepak S, GuptaSandeep, SharmaPriyanka

Encephalopathy
Hyperammonaemia

This case report highlights the importance of recognizing the potential complications of sodium valproate overdose, including hyperammonaemic encephalopathy. The report emphasizes the need for prompt treatment and management of these complications.

Case ReportsIn the medical field, a report that describes in detail a unique case, an unusual medical condition, or the effect of a treatment. Provides new insights and possibilities for treatment through individual patient cases.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

18.

Levetiracetam pharmacokinetics and its covariates: proposal for optimal dosing in the paediatric population.

Author: PokornáPavla, ŠímaMartin, ŠvestkováNatálie, SlanařOndřej

Epilepsy treatment

Levetiracetam, an anticonvulsive drug, shows altered pharmacokinetics in children, requiring dose individualization to optimize treatment outcomes. Further research is needed to determine optimal dosing strategies for different age groups.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

19.

Valproic acid: a new antiepileptic drug with potential side effects of dental concern.

Author: HassellT M, WhiteG C, JewsonL G, PeeleL C

Defective blood clotting
Spontaneous hemorrhage

Valproic acid can cause defective blood clotting and spontaneous hemorrhage.

Case ReportsIn the medical field, a report that describes in detail a unique case, an unusual medical condition, or the effect of a treatment. Provides new insights and possibilities for treatment through individual patient cases.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.Research funding provided by the Public Health Service (PHS).

Language : English

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