DRUG STUDY

GENERIC NAME: Valproic Acid

Brand name: Depakene; Depakote
Drug Classification: Antiepileptic

DOSAGE, ROUTE, SIDE EFFECTS and

FREQUENCY (prescribed and INDICATION MECHANISM OF ADVERSE REACTIONS
recommended) ACTION (by system)

 Acute mania or bipolar  Acute treatment of Antiepileptic activity may CNS: Sedation
disorder: manic episodes be related to the Dermatologic: Transient
associated with metabolism of the increase in hair loss
Initially, 25 mg/kg/day PO once
bipolar disorder.
daily. Dose should be increased inhibitory GI: Life-threatening
rapidly to achieve the lowest neurotransmitter, GABA. pancreatitis and liver failure
 Treatment of
therapeutic dose. Maximum GU: Irregular menses
bipolar mania.
dose 60 mg/kg/day PO

 Bipolar mania:
750 mg PO daily in divided
doses; do not exceed 60
mg/kg/day

NURSING RESPONSIBILITIES
CONTRAINDICATION/S (at least 10)

 Hypersensitivity to valproic acid 1. Reduce dosage, discontinue, or substitute other antiepileptics

 Hepatic disease gradually.
 Hepatic impairment 2. Discontinue drug immediately with suspected or apparent
significant hepatic impairment.
3. Arrange for patient to have platelet counts, bleeding time
determination before therapy.
4. Monitor ammonia levels.
5. Discontinue the drug at any sign of pancreatitis.
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