Valproate
Valproate is an anticonvulsant and mood-stabilizing drug. It works by increasing levels of GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) in the brain, which helps prevent seizures and stabilize mood. Due to its potential for serious side effects, including liver damage, pancreatitis, and severe birth defects (teratogenicity), its use must be closely monitored by a healthcare professional.
Dosage by Body Weight
Dosage must be individualized. Typically started at 10-15 mg/kg/day and titrated slowly up to 20-30 mg/kg/day based on response. Take with or after food to minimize stomach upset. Do not crush or chew prolonged-release or enteric-coated tablets. High risk of birth defects; female patients must follow strict pregnancy prevention programs.
- Body Weight
- Below 5 kg
- Dose
- Not routinely recommended
- Frequency
- Use only if prescribed by a pediatric specialist
- Tracking Notes
- High risk of severe hepatotoxicity in infants under 2 years of age.
- Body Weight
- 5-7 kg
- Dose
- 75 mg to 150 mg daily
- Frequency
- Divided into 1 or 2 doses daily
- Tracking Notes
- Usually initiated at the lower end of the range and titrated slowly.
- Body Weight
- 8-10 kg
- Dose
- 120 mg to 300 mg daily
- Frequency
- Divided into 1 or 2 doses daily
- Tracking Notes
- Adjustments should be made in increments of 5-10 mg/kg/day weekly.
- Body Weight
- 11-15 kg
- Dose
- 165 mg to 450 mg daily
- Frequency
- Divided into 1 or 2 doses daily
- Tracking Notes
- Monitor liver function and complete blood count periodically.
- Body Weight
- 16-20 kg
- Dose
- 240 mg to 600 mg daily
- Frequency
- Divided into 1 or 2 doses daily
- Tracking Notes
- Ensure patient maintains adequate hydration and watch for unusual bruising or bleeding.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below 5 kg | Not routinely recommended | Use only if prescribed by a pediatric specialist | High risk of severe hepatotoxicity in infants under 2 years of age. |
| 5-7 kg | 75 mg to 150 mg daily | Divided into 1 or 2 doses daily | Usually initiated at the lower end of the range and titrated slowly. |
| 8-10 kg | 120 mg to 300 mg daily | Divided into 1 or 2 doses daily | Adjustments should be made in increments of 5-10 mg/kg/day weekly. |
| 11-15 kg | 165 mg to 450 mg daily | Divided into 1 or 2 doses daily | Monitor liver function and complete blood count periodically. |
| 16-20 kg | 240 mg to 600 mg daily | Divided into 1 or 2 doses daily | Ensure patient maintains adequate hydration and watch for unusual bruising or bleeding. |
Formulation
Purpose
Treatment of various types of epilepsy (seizures), manic episodes associated with bipolar disorder, and prevention of migraine headaches.
Generic Name
Sodium Valproate / Valproic AcidBranded Drug Names
Valproate is listed as a generic drug name. Common branded medicines that may contain the same active ingredient include:
Scheduled Drug
Yes. This medicine should be supplied or used only according to applicable prescription and regulatory requirements.