Valproic Acid Flashcards
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Questions and Answers

What is the trade name for Valproic Acid?

  • Neurontin
  • Dilantin
  • Keppra
  • Depakote (correct)
  • What classification does Valproic Acid belong to?

    Antiepileptic

    What is the FDA category for Valproic Acid?

  • A
  • B
  • D (correct)
  • X (correct)
  • What is the pharmacologic characteristic of Valproic Acid?

    <p>Extensive hepatic metabolism followed by renal excretion.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What are the therapeutic uses of Valproic Acid?

    <p>All of the above</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one mechanism of action for Valproic Acid?

    <p>Suppression of high-frequency neuronal firing through blockade of sodium channels.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How can Valproic Acid be administered?

    <p>Oral and IV</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the initial dosage range for adults taking Valproic Acid?

    <p>5 to 15 mg/kg/day</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What are some common side effects of Valproic Acid?

    <p>Rash, weight gain, hair loss, tremor, blood dyscrasias.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which substances can interact with Valproic Acid?

    <p>All of the above</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is an important nursing consideration when stopping Valproic Acid?

    <p>Taper when stopping.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should patients avoid while taking Valproic Acid?

    <p>A and B</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What labs should be evaluated while a patient is on Valproic Acid?

    <p>Liver function tests.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Study Notes

    Valproic Acid Overview

    • Generic name for this medication is Valproic Acid, with the trade name Depakote.
    • Classified as an antiepileptic drug, aiding in the control of seizures.

    FDA Classification

    • Rated as Category D and X regarding pregnancy safety, indicating risks during pregnancy.

    Pharmacokinetics

    • Undergoes extensive hepatic metabolism; primarily excreted by the kidneys.
    • Well-absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and has widespread distribution throughout the body.

    Therapeutic Uses

    • First-line treatment for all types of partial and generalized seizures.
    • Provides symptomatic control for patients with bipolar disorder.
    • Approved for prophylaxis of migraines.
    • Therapeutic plasma levels typically range from 40 to 100 mcg/ml, though the correlation to therapeutic effectiveness is not very strong.

    Mechanism of Action

    • Suppresses high-frequency neuronal firing by blocking sodium channels, similar to Phenytoin and Carbamazepine.
    • Inhibits calcium influx through T-type calcium channels.
    • Potentially enhances the inhibitory effects of GABA.

    Administration Routes

    • Can be administered orally or intravenously (IV).

    Dosage Guidelines

    • Initial dosage for adults and older children ranges from 5 to 15 mg/kg/day, maintained at 0.75 to 3 gm/day.
    • For children, initial dosage starts at 10 to 30 mg/kg/day, with a maintenance dose of 15 to 45 mg/kg/day.
    • IV formulation provided as a 100 mg/ml solution (Depacon).

    Side Effects

    • Common side effects include rash, weight gain, hair loss, tremors, and gastrointestinal (GI) disturbances such as nausea, vomiting, and indigestion.
    • Serious but rare risks include hepatotoxicity and pancreatitis; highly teratogenic, particularly in the first trimester.

    Drug Interactions and Contraindications

    • Interactions with medications including Phenobarbital, Phenytoin, Topiramate, Carbapenem antibiotics, alcohol, and other CNS depressants should be monitored.

    Nursing Considerations

    • Taper dosing gradually when discontinuing the medication.
    • Monitor complete blood count (CBC), liver function tests (LFTs), and therapeutic serum levels (typically 50 to 100 mcg/ml).
    • Not recommended for use during pregnancy; monitor for suicidal ideation.

    Patient Education

    • Advise patients to avoid alcohol and over-the-counter sleeping medications.
    • Regular blood tests are necessary; patients should wear medical identification.
    • Report any stool color changes, bleeding, or suicidal thoughts to a healthcare provider.
    • Depakote sprinkle tablets can be mixed with applesauce or pudding; patients should not chew or crush tablets or capsules.

    Laboratory Monitoring

    • Baseline liver function tests should be conducted and monitored periodically throughout treatment.

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    Test your knowledge about Valproic Acid with these flashcards. Learn key aspects including its classification, FDA category, and pharmacology. Perfect for students studying pharmacology or anyone interested in drug information.

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