Valproic acid will intensify the effects of other anticonvulsants, barbiturates, alcohol, and anti-depressants. It interacts with aspirin and heparin to increase the risk of spontaneous bleeding.
Valproic acid is intended as a mood altering drug. It is often used to eliminate or lessen the effects of depression. However, the drug also has some adverse side effects. For example, longterm use is known to cause liver or kidney damage.
Valproic acid is an anticonvulsant used to control seizures in the treatment of epilepsy
Yes, it is recommended to avoid alcohol when taking valproic acid or divalproex sodium as it can increase the risk of side effects such as drowsiness and liver damage. Drinking alcohol can also worsen certain conditions that these medications are used to treat, like seizures or bipolar disorder.
Another name for Valproic acid is sodium valproate.
Yes
Valproic acid is closely related to divalproex sodium and valproate sodiumValproic acid is closely related to divalproex sodium and valproate sodium
Yes, Epival and valproic acid refer to the same medication. Epival is a brand name for valproic acid, which is primarily used to treat epilepsy, bipolar disorder, and to prevent migraine headaches. Valproic acid works by stabilizing electrical activity in the brain. Both terms are often used interchangeably in clinical settings.
Valproic acid
Valproic acid works by increasing the levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that inhibits brain activity, leading to a calming effect. It also exerts its effects by blocking voltage-gated sodium channels and inhibiting the enzyme histone deacetylase. These mechanisms contribute to its effectiveness in treating conditions such as epilepsy, bipolar disorder, and migraines.
A lavender-top tube containing EDTA is typically used for blood collection for valproic acid measurement, as it helps preserve the sample for accurate testing. It is important to follow your facility's specific guidelines for blood collection for valproic acid testing.
It is a derivative of an organic acid called Valproic Acid. However as pure Valproic Acid is a liquid at room temperature and can upset the stomach a 50-50 mixture of Valproic Acid with its sodium salt, Sodium Valproate is used. This mixture is called Divalproex Sodium for the generic and Depakote for the brand name. There are several inert ingredients in the pills too (including vanilla in the brand name DR pills). The full chemical name of Valproic Acid is 2-Propylpentanoic acid.
Folic acid is considered extremely safe, and there are no predictable side effects.