Valproate for Epilepsy

Overview
According to the Australian Medicines Handbook (AMH), Valproate is indicated for primary generalised epilepsy and simple and complex focal (partial) seizures.

Valproate is an antiepileptic, or drug that prevents seizures. It is believed that Valproate works in cases of epilepsy by inhibiting nerve signals.

If you are a female of childbearing age, make sure that you talk to your doctor about the risks associated with taking Valproate during pregnancy.

How do I take it?
Valproate comes in tablet, oral liquid, and injectable forms.

Side effects
The AMH lists common side effects for Valproate including dizziness, drowsiness, impaired memory, nausea, vomiting, increased appetite, weight gain, tremors, hair thinning or loss, and, in women, abnormal menstrual cycle and elevated male sex hormones.

Rare but serious side effects listed for Valproate include blood cell disorders, liver failure, pancreatitis, parkinsonism, kidney damage, bone fracture, hypothermia, fluid build-up around the lungs, and Stevens-Johnson syndrome (a potentially life-threatening disorder of skin and mucous membranes).

Information was sourced from:

The Australian Medicines Handbook
https://amhonline.amh.net.au/