The role of intravenous valproic acid in status epilepticus.

Abstract

Valproic acid (VA) has been reported to be effective in status epilepticus (SE) when given rectally. More recently, intravenous (IV) VA has been demonstrated to be effective and safe. Pharmacokinetic studies and initial clinical experience with IV valproic acid suggest that it may have a useful role in the management of refractory status epilepticus, but the magnitude of its utility is not possible to quantify or compare with phenytoin and phenobarbital. In simple SE, IV VA provides less additional benefit, since standard therapy usually works well. IV VA may be useful as a substitute for standard simple SE therapy, but this is difficult to justify unless adverse reactions to standard therapy are anticipated. The published pediatric experience with IV VA for SE is scant.

• Authors: L G Yamamoto, G K Yim
• Journal: Pediatric emergency care (Pediatr Emerg Care) Vol. 16 Issue 4 Pg. 296-8 (Aug 2000) ISSN: 0749-5161 [Print] United States
• PMID: 10966355 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Review)

Chemical References

• Anticonvulsants
• Valproic Acid

Topics

• Adolescent
• Adult
• Aged
• Aged, 80 and over
• Animals
• Anticonvulsants (administration & dosage, pharmacology, therapeutic use)
• Child
• Humans
• Infusions, Intravenous
• Middle Aged
• Status Epilepticus (drug therapy)
• Valproic Acid (administration & dosage, pharmacology, therapeutic use)