Sodium valproate used in the treatment of all forms of epilepsy: it is a drug of choice in major, absence, and partial
seizures. It is suitable for long-term use, does not cause sedation, and can be taken with oral contraceptives. Sodium valproate is available, on prescription only, as tablets, crushable tablets, a syrup, or a liquid for oral use and as an intravenous injection.
Side effects: include gastric irritation, nausea, unsteadiness, and weight gain. Transient hair loss, oedema, and blood disorders may occur; rare side effects are liver failure and bleeding disorders.
Precautions: patients who are planning on becoming pregnant, or who are already pregnant, should seek specialist advice.
Interactions with other drugs:
Anticonvulsants: taking two or more anticonvulsants together may increase their adverse effects. Valproate often raises (but may lower) the plasma concentration of phenytoin; phenytoin often lowers the plasma concentration of valproate.
Antidepressants: reduce the anticonvulsant effect of sodium valproate.
Antimalarials: antagonize the anticonvulsant effect of sodium valproate.
Antipsycnotics: reduce the anticonvulsant effect of sodium valproate.
Aspirin: enhances the effect of sodium valproate.
Cimetidine: increases plasma concentrations of sodium valproate.
Proprietary preparations: Epilim; Orlept; Sondate 200 EC; EPILIM CHRONO (combined with valproic acid).
