Questions and Answers
What is the trade name for Valproic Acid?
What classification does Valproic Acid belong to?
Antiepileptic
What is the FDA category for Valproic Acid?
What is the pharmacologic characteristic of Valproic Acid?
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What are the therapeutic uses of Valproic Acid?
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What is one mechanism of action for Valproic Acid?
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How can Valproic Acid be administered?
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What is the initial dosage range for adults taking Valproic Acid?
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What are some common side effects of Valproic Acid?
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Which substances can interact with Valproic Acid?
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What is an important nursing consideration when stopping Valproic Acid?
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What should patients avoid while taking Valproic Acid?
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What labs should be evaluated while a patient is on Valproic Acid?
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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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Description
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.
