Sodium valproate
Sodium Valproate
Sodium valproate (pronunciation: soh-dee-uhm val-proh-ate) is a medication primarily used to treat epilepsy and bipolar disorder and to prevent migraine headaches. It is available in oral, intravenous and rectal forms.
Etymology
The term 'valproate' is derived from valeric acid and propanoic acid. 'Valproate' is the base, ion, or salt of valproic acid. The sodium salt of valproic acid, sodium valproate, is often used as its sodium salt.
Usage
Sodium valproate is used to control certain types of seizures in the treatment of epilepsy. This medication works by restoring the balance of certain natural substances (neurotransmitters) in the brain. Sodium valproate is also used to treat the manic phase of bipolar disorder (manic-depressive illness), and helps prevent migraines.
Side Effects
Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, sleepiness, and a dry mouth. Serious side effects can include liver problems and regular monitoring of liver function tests is therefore recommended. Other serious risks include pancreatitis and an increased suicide risk.
Related Terms
- Valproic Acid: The parent compound of sodium valproate, used in similar medical applications.
- Epilepsy: A neurological disorder marked by sudden recurrent episodes of sensory disturbance, loss of consciousness, or convulsions, associated with abnormal electrical activity in the brain.
- Bipolar Disorder: A disorder associated with episodes of mood swings ranging from depressive lows to manic highs.
- Migraine: A type of headache characterized by recurrent attacks of severe pain, often on one side of the head and often accompanied by nausea or vomiting, and light and sound sensitivity.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Sodium valproate
- Wikipedia's article - Sodium valproate
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