Valproic acid, supplied as the sodium salt valproate semisodium or divalproex sodium, is a fatty acid with anticonvulsant properties used in the treatment of epilepsy. The mechanisms of its therapeutic actions are not well understood. It may act by increasing gamma-aminobutyric acid levels in the brain or by altering the properties of voltage dependent sodium channels. Typically supplied in the sodium salt form (CAS number: 76584-70-8). Depakote is also a histone deacetylase inhibitor and is under investigation for treatment of HIV and various cancers.
The relationship between plasma concentration and clinical response is not well documented. One contributing factor is the nonlinear, concentration dependent protein binding of valproate which affects the clearance of the drug. Thus, monitoring of total serum valproate cannot provide a reliable index of the bioactive valproate species. For patients with epilepsy, the therapeutic range is commonly considered to be 50 to 100 mcg/mL of total valproate. However, patients may be controlled at lower or higher doses.
Oral, mouse: LD50 = 1098 mg/kg; Oral, rat: LD50 = 670 mg/kg. Symptoms of overdose may include coma, extreme drowsiness, and heart problems. The safety and tolerability of valproate in pediatric patients were shown to be comparable to those in adults.
Imprints
Drug: Depakote
Strength: 500 Mg
Pill Imprint: A NS
Color: Pink
Shape: Elliptical / Oval
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Drug: Depakote
Strength: 250 Mg
Pill Imprint: A NR
Color: Orange
Shape: Elliptical / Oval
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Drug: Depakote
Strength: 125 Mg
Pill Imprint: A NT
Color: Pink
Shape: Elliptical / Oval
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