One first-line broad-spectrum antiseizure medication that may provide protection against a

variety of seizure types is valproate. Moreover, it is a preventative measure against migraines

and a mood stabilizer for bipolar disorder.

It is unknown what mechanism or mechanisms for valproate to work as a therapeutic agent. In

various chemoconvulsant seizure models, the MES test, and the kindling models, valproate
provides seizure prevention with broad-spectrum efficacy.

Among the most effective and adaptable antiseizure medications is valproate. For generalized
onset tonic-clonic, atonic, and myoclonic seizures, it is extensively utilized. Additionally useful in
treating generalized absence seizures, valproate is frequently chosen over ethosuximide in
cases where a patient simultaneously experiences concurrent generalized tonic-clonic seizures.
Though it might not work as well as phenytoin or carbamazepine, valproate is also useful for
focal seizures. Treatment for status epilepticus may use intravenous formulations.

With a bioavailability of more than 80%, valproate is well absorbed following an oral dosage. It
takes two hours to notice peak blood levels. After meals, the medication may be more tolerable
because food may slow down the drug's absorption.

Pharmacological medicines such as ethosuximide and phenobarbital have increased steady-

state concentrations when valproate slows their metabolism. Phenobarbital dosages may
increase suddenly, resulting in stupor or coma.

The most frequent side effects associated with valproate dosage include vomiting, nausea, and
other gastrointestinal issues such heartburn and abdominal pain. It is best to start the
medication gradually to prevent these side effects. At higher levels, a little tremor is frequently
observed.

Rarely, valproate can result in idiosyncratic liver toxicity, which can be extremely dangerous and
even deadly. Patients under the age of two and those taking numerous drugs are most at
danger.

It may result in drowsiness brought on by elevated blood ammonia levels.

One to two percent of pregnant women who receive valproate treatment during the first
trimester of pregnancy are at risk for neural tube abnormalities, such as spina bifida.