Valproic Acid (Valproate/Depakote)

Overview

• Drug Name: Valproic Acid
• Also Known As: Valproate, Depakote (brand name)
• Uses:
  • Anticonvulsant for treating seizures
  • Mood stabilizer for treating bipolar disorder

Key Visual Mnemonic

• Valet at Masquerade Party:
  • Valet reminds of Valproic Acid
• Anti-Shake Shocks on Car: Anti-convulsant drugs
  • Blocks sodium channels & increases GABA signaling in the brain
  • Broad-spectrum anti-epileptic (treats partial, myoclonic, and tonic-clonic seizures)
• Masquerade Masks: Bipolar Disorder
  • Happy and sad masks represent mania and depression

Clinical Uses

• Treats various types of seizures: partial, myoclonic, tonic-clonic
• Acts as a mood stabilizer in bipolar disorder

Side Effects

• Hepatotoxicity (Liver Injury):
  • Symbolized by: liver-shaped lever
  • Monitor liver enzymes (AST, ALT)
• Teratogenicity (Birth Defects):
  • Symbolized by: tarantula
  • Avoid use in pregnant women due to risk of neural tube defects

Recap

• Valproic Acid/ Valproate/ Depakote
  • Anticonvulsant and mood stabilizer
  • Side effects: Hepatotoxicity, Teratogenicity
• Mnemonic: Valet at Masquerade Party

Recommendations

• Monitor patient's liver enzymes
• Avoid prescribing to pregnant women

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