Valproic Acid (Valproate/Depakote)

Usage

• Anticonvulsant: Used to treat seizures
• Mood Stabilizer: Used to treat bipolar disorder

Visual Mnemonic

• Masquerade Party: Valet = Valproic Acid
• Depakote: Trade name
• Anti-Shake Shocks: Symbolize anti-convulsant drugs, indicate smooth treatment of seizures
• Happy and Sad Masks: Represent bipolar disorder (mania and depression)
• Liver Lever: Symbolizes hepatotoxicity
• Tarantula: Represents teratogenic effects (teratogen)

Mechanism of Action

• Blocks sodium channels
• Increases GABA signaling
• Broad spectrum anti-epileptic
  • Treats partial, myoclonic, and tonic-clonic seizures

Clinical Uses

• Seizures: Can treat multiple types
• Bipolar Disorder: Acts as a mood stabilizer

Side Effects

Hepatotoxicity

• Liver injury risk
• Monitor liver enzymes (AST, ALT)

Teratogenicity

• Risk of birth defects (e.g., neural tube defects)
• Avoid use in pregnant women

Recap

• Valproic Acid (Valproate/Depakote): Anti-epileptic and mood stabilizer
• Clinical Uses: Treats seizures and bipolar disorder
• Side Effects: Hepatotoxicity, teratogenic

Additional Information

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