(val PROE ik AS id & dah RIV ah tives)
Oral, IV: Monotherapy and adjunctive therapy in the treatment of patients with complex partial seizures; monotherapy and adjunctive therapy of simple and complex absence seizures; adjunctive therapy in patients with multiple seizure types that include absence seizures
Additional indications: Depakote, Depakote ER, Stavzor: Mania associated with bipolar disorder; migraine prophylaxis
Limitation of use: Do not administer to a woman of childbearing potential unless essential for the management of her condition.
Hypersensitivity to valproic acid, divalproex, derivatives, or any component of the formulation; hepatic disease or significant impairment; urea cycle disorders; pregnant women for the prevention of migraine; known mitochondrial disorders caused by mutations in mitochondrial DNA polymerase gamma (POLG; eg, Alpers-Huttenlocher syndrome [AHS]) or children <2 years of age suspected of having a POLG-related disorder
Hepatic failure resulting in fatalities has occurred in patients receiving valproate. These incidents usually have occurred during the first 6 months of treatment. Serious or fatal hepatotoxicity may be preceded by nonspecific symptoms such as malaise, weakness, lethargy, facial edema, anorexia, and vomiting. In patients with epilepsy, a loss of seizure control may also occur. Monitor patients closely for appearance of these symptoms. Perform serum liver tests prior to therapy and at frequent intervals thereafter, especially during the first 6 months.
Children younger than 2 years are at a considerably increased risk of developing fatal hepatotoxicity, especially those on multiple anticonvulsants, those with congenital metabolic disorders, those with severe seizure disorders accompanied by mental retardation, and those with organic brain disease. When these products are used in this patient group, use with extreme caution and as a sole agent. Weigh the benefits of therapy against the risks. The incidence of fatal hepatotoxicity decreases considerably in progressively older patient groups.
Patients with mitochondrial disease:There is an increased risk of valproate-induced acute liver failure and resultant deaths in patients with hereditary neurometabolic syndromes caused by DNA mutations of the mitochondrial DNA polymerase gamma (POLG) gene (eg, Alpers-Huttenlocher syndrome). Valproate is contraindicated in patients known to have mitochondrial disorders caused by POLG mutations and children younger than 2 years who are clinically suspected of having a mitochondrial disorder. In patients older than 2 years who are clinically suspected of having a hereditary mitochondrial disease, only use after other anticonvulsants have failed. Closely monitor this older group of patients during treatment for the development of acute liver injury with regular clinical assessments and serum liver testing. Perform POLG mutation screening in accordance with current clinical practice.
Fetal risk:Valproate can cause major congenital malformations, particularly neural tube defects (eg, spina bifida). In addition, valproate can cause decreased IQ scores following in utero exposure. Only use valproate to treat pregnant women with epilepsy if other medications have failed to control their symptoms or are otherwise unacceptable. Do not administer valproate to a woman of childbearing potential unless the drug is essential to the management of her medical condition. This is especially important when valproate use is considered for a treatment of a spontaneously reversible condition not ordinarily associated with permanent injury or risk of death (eg, migraine). Women should use effective contraception while using valproate.
An information sheet describing the teratogenic potential of valproate is available for patients.
Pancreatitis:Cases of life-threatening pancreatitis have been reported in both children and adults receiving valproate. Some of the cases have been described as hemorrhagic with a rapid progression from initial symptoms to death. Cases have been reported shortly after initial use as well as after several years of use. Warn patients and guardians that abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and/or anorexia can be symptoms of pancreatitis that require prompt medical evaluation. If pancreatitis is diagnosed, ordinarily discontinue valproate. Initiate alternative treatment for the underlying medical condition as clinically indicated.
Seizures:Note: Administer doses >250 mg/day in divided doses.
Oral:
Simple and complex absence seizure: Initial: 15 mg/kg/day; increase by 5-10 mg/kg/day at weekly intervals until therapeutic levels are achieved; maximum: 60 mg/kg/day.
Complex partial seizure: Initial: 10 to 15 mg/kg/day; increase by 5 to 10 mg/kg/day at weekly intervals until therapeutic levels are achieved; maximum: 60 mg/kg/day.
Note: Regular release and delayed release formulations are usually given in 2 to 4 divided doses per day; extended release formulation (Depakote ER) is usually given once daily. Depakote ER is not recommended for use in children <10 years of age. In patients previously maintained on regular release valproic acid therapy (Depakene) who convert to delayed release valproate tablets or capsules (Depakote, Stavzor), the same daily dose and frequency as the regular release should be used; once therapy is stabilized, the frequency of Depakote or Stavzor may be adjusted to 2 to 3 times daily.
Conversion to Depakote ER from a stable dose of Depakote: May require an increase in the total daily dose between 8% and 20% to maintain similar serum concentrations.
Conversion to monotherapy from adjunctive therapy: The concomitant antiepileptic drug (AED) can be decreased by ~25% every 2 weeks; dosage reduction of the concomitant AED may begin when valproate therapy is initiated or 1 to 2 weeks following valproate initiation.
IV: Total daily IV dose should be equivalent to the total daily dose of the oral valproate product; administer dose as a 60-minute infusion ( ≤20 mg/minute) with the same frequency as oral products; switch patient to oral products as soon as possible. Alternatively, rapid infusions of 1.5 to 6 mg/kg/minute have been used in clinical trials to quickly achieve therapeutic concentrations, and were generally well tolerated (Ramsay, 2003; Venkataraman, 1999; Wheless, 2004). One study reported undiluted valproic acid administered at ≤10 mg/kg/minute (dose of ≤30 mg/kg) was well tolerated (Limdi, 2007).
Mania: Oral:
Depakote tablet, Stavzor: Initial: 750 mg/day in divided doses; dose should be adjusted as rapidly as possible to desired clinical effect; maximum recommended dosage: 60 mg/kg/day
Depakote ER: Initial: 25 mg/kg/day given once daily; dose should be adjusted as rapidly as possible to desired clinical effect; maximum recommended dose: 60 mg/kg/day.
Migraine prophylaxis: Oral:
Depakote tablet, Stavzor: 250 mg twice daily; adjust dose based on patient response, up to 1,000 mg/day
Depakote ER: 500 mg once daily for 7 days, then increase to 1,000 mg once daily; adjust dose based on patient response; usual dosage range 500 to 1,000 mg/day
Diabetic neuropathy (off-label use): Oral: 500 to 1,200 mg/day (Bril, 2011)
Status epilepticus (off-label use): IV: Loading dose: 20 to 40 mg/kg administered at rate of 3 to 6 mg/kg/minute; if necessary, may give an additional dose of 20 mg/kg 10 minutes after the loading infusion (NCS [Brophy, 2012]).
Oral, IV: Lower initial doses are recommended due to decreased elimination and increased incidences of somnolence in the elderly; no specific dosage recommendations are provided by the manufacturer. Upward titration should be done slowly and with close monitoring for adverse events (eg, sedation, dehydration, decreased nutritional intake). Safety and efficacy for use in patients >65 years have not been studied for migraine prophylaxis.
Seizures:Note: Administer doses >250 mg daily in divided doses.
Oral:
Simple and complex absence seizures: Refer to adult dosing. Larger maintenance doses may be required in younger children.
Complex partial seizures: Children ≥10 years: Refer to adult dosing. Larger maintenance doses may be required in younger children.
Note: Depakote ER is not recommended for use in children <10 years of age.
Conversion to Depakote ER from a stable dose of Depakote: Refer to adult dosing.
Conversion to monotherapy from adjunctive therapy: Refer to adult dosing.
IV: Refer to adult dosing.
Rectal (off-label route): Dilute syrup 1:1 with water for use as a retention enema; acute and maintenance dose: 6 to 15 mg/kg/dose (Graves, 1987)
Migraine prophylaxis: Children ≥12 years and Adolescents (Stavzor): Oral: Refer to adult dosing.
Status epilepticus (off-label use): Children and Adolescents: IV: 20 to 40 mg/kg administered at rate of 1.5 to 3 mg/kg/minute; if necessary, may give an additional dose of 20 mg/kg 10 minutes after the loading infusion (NCS [Brophy, 2012]). A continuous infusion may be initiated at 5 mg/kg/hour until a 6 hour seizure-free period then reduced at a rate of 1 mg/kg/hour every 2 hours followed by a maintenance dose of 10 mg/kg every 8 hours (Mehta, 2007).
Mild to severe impairment: No dosage adjustment necessary (including patients on hemodialysis); however, due to decreased protein binding in renal impairment, monitoring only total valproate concentrations may be misleading.
Mild to moderate impairment: Not recommended for use in hepatic disease; clearance is decreased with liver impairment. Hepatic disease is also associated with decreased albumin concentrations and 2- to 2.6-fold increase in the unbound fraction. Free concentrations of valproate may be elevated while total concentrations appear normal, therefore, monitoring only total valproate concentrations may be misleading.
Severe impairment: Use is contraindicated.
Hazardous agent; use appropriate precautions for handling and disposal (NIOSH 2014 [groups 2 and 3]).
IV: Prior to administration of the injectable solution, dilute in 50 mL of a compatible diluent.
Oral: Oral valproate products may cause GI upset; taking with food or slowly increasing the dose may decrease GI upset should it occur.
Depakote ER: Swallow whole; do not crush or chew.
Depakote Sprinkle capsules may be swallowed whole or capsule opened and sprinkled on small amount (1 teaspoonful) of soft food (eg, pudding, applesauce) to be used immediately (do not store or chew).
Depakene capsule, Stavzor: Swallow whole; do not chew.
IV: Following dilution to final concentration, manufacturer 's labeling recommends administering over 60 minutes at a rate ≤20 mg/minute. Alternatively, more rapid infusion rates of 1.5-6 mg/kg/minute have been used in clinical trials to quickly achieve therapeutic concentrations, and were generally well tolerated (Ramsay, 2003; Wheless, 2004). One study reported undiluted valproic acid administered at ≤10 mg/kg/minute (dose of ≤30 mg/kg) was well tolerated (Limdi, 2007).
Neurocritical Care Society recommendations for status epilepticus (NCS [Brophy, 2012]):
Adults: Maximum administration rate of 3 to 6 mg/kg/minute for the loading dose
Children and Adolescents: Maximum administration rate of 1.5 to 3 mg/kg/minute for the loading dose
Hazardous agent - use appropriate precautions for handling and disposal (NIOSH 2014 [groups 2 and 3]).
Oral capsules:
Depakene: Store at 15 ‚ °C to 25 ‚ °C (59 ‚ °F to 77 ‚ °F).
Stavzor: Store at 25 ‚ °C (77 ‚ ° F); excursions are permitted between 15 ‚ °C and 30 ‚ °C (59 ‚ °F and 86 ‚ °F).
Oral sprinkle capsules (Depakote): Store below 25 ‚ °C (77 ‚ °F).
Oral solution (Depakene): Store below 30 ‚ °C (86 ‚ °F).
Oral tablets:
Depakote: Store below 30 ‚ °C (86 ‚ °F).
Depakote ER: Store tablets at 25 ‚ °C (77 ‚ °F); excursions are permitted between 15 ‚ °C and 30 ‚ °C (59 ‚ °F and 86 ‚ °F).
IV: Store at controlled room temperature 15 ‚ °C to 30 ‚ °C (59 ‚ °F to 86 ‚ °F). Stable in D5W, NS, and LR for at least 24 hours when stored in glass or PVC.
Excipient information presented when available (limited, particularly for generics); consult specific product labeling. [DSC] = Discontinued product
Capsule, Oral, as valproic acid:
Depakene: 250 mg
Generic: 250 mg
Capsule Delayed Release, Oral, as valproic acid:
Stavzor: 125 mg [DSC], 250 mg [DSC], 500 mg [DSC] [contains fd&c yellow #6 (sunset yellow)]
Capsule Delayed Release Sprinkle, Oral, as divalproex sodium:
Depakote Sprinkles: 125 mg [contains brilliant blue fcf (fd&c blue #1)]
Generic: 125 mg
Solution, Intravenous, as valproate sodium:
Depacon: 100 mg/mL (5 mL)
Solution, Intravenous, as valproate sodium [preservative free]:
Generic: 100 mg/mL (5 mL); 500 mg/5 mL (5 mL)
Solution, Oral, as valproate sodium:
Generic: 250 mg/5 mL (473 mL)
Syrup, Oral, as valproate sodium:
Depakene: 250 mg/5 mL (480 mL)
Generic: 250 mg/5 mL (5 mL, 10 mL, 473 mL)
Tablet Delayed Release, Oral, as divalproex sodium:
Depakote: 125 mg [contains brilliant blue fcf (fd&c blue #1), fd&c red #40]
Depakote: 250 mg [contains fd&c yellow #6 (sunset yellow)]
Depakote: 500 mg [contains fd&c blue #2 (indigotine)]
Generic: 125 mg, 250 mg, 500 mg
Tablet Extended Release 24 Hour, Oral, as divalproex sodium:
Depakote ER: 250 mg, 500 mg
Generic: 250 mg, 500 mg
Barbiturates: Valproate Products may increase the serum concentration of Barbiturates. Barbiturates may decrease the serum concentration of Valproate Products. Monitor therapy
CarBAMazepine: Valproate Products may increase serum concentrations of the active metabolite(s) of CarBAMazepine. Parent carbamazepine concentrations may be increased, decreased, or unchanged. CarBAMazepine may decrease the serum concentration of Valproate Products. Monitor therapy
Carbapenems: May decrease the serum concentration of Valproate Products. Management: Concurrent use of carbapenem antibiotics with valproic acid is generally not recommended. Alternative antimicrobial agents should be considered, but if a concurrent carbapenem is necessary, consider additional anti-seizure medication. Consider therapy modification
ChlorproMAZINE: May increase the serum concentration of Valproate Products. Monitor therapy
Cholestyramine Resin: May decrease the serum concentration of Valproic Acid and Derivatives. Management: Separate administration of valproic acid and cholestyramine by at least 3 hours whenever possible in order to minimize the potential for a significant interaction. Consider therapy modification
Cosyntropin: May enhance the hepatotoxic effect of Valproate Products. Management: Avoid concomitant use of Synacthen Depot (dosage form available in Canada) with valproic acid. Avoid combination
Ethosuximide: May decrease the serum concentration of Valproate Products. Valproate Products may increase the serum concentration of Ethosuximide. Monitor therapy
Felbamate: May increase the serum concentration of Valproate Products. Consider therapy modification
Fosphenytoin-Phenytoin: Valproate Products may decrease the protein binding of Fosphenytoin-Phenytoin. This appears to lead to an initial increase in the percentage of unbound (free) phenytoin and to a decrease in total phenytoin concentrations. Whether concentrations of free phenytoin are increased is unclear. With long-term concurrent use, total phenytoin concentrations may increase. Fosphenytoin-Phenytoin may decrease the serum concentration of Valproate Products. Monitor therapy
GuanFACINE: May increase the serum concentration of Valproate Products. Monitor therapy
LamoTRIgine: Valproate Products may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of LamoTRIgine. Valproate Products may increase the serum concentration of LamoTRIgine. Consider therapy modification
Lesinurad: Valproate Products may increase the serum concentration of Lesinurad. Avoid combination
LORazepam: Valproate Products may increase the serum concentration of LORazepam. Consider therapy modification
Mefloquine: May diminish the therapeutic effect of Anticonvulsants. Mefloquine may decrease the serum concentration of Anticonvulsants. Management: Mefloquine is contraindicated for malaria prophylaxis in persons with a history of convulsions. Monitor anticonvulsant concentrations and treatment response closely with concurrent use. Consider therapy modification
Methylfolate: May decrease the serum concentration of Valproate Products. Monitor therapy
Mianserin: May diminish the therapeutic effect of Anticonvulsants. Monitor therapy
Minoxidil (Systemic): Valproate Products may increase the serum concentration of Minoxidil (Systemic). Monitor therapy
OLANZapine: Valproate Products may decrease the serum concentration of OLANZapine. Monitor therapy
Orlistat: May decrease the serum concentration of Anticonvulsants. Monitor therapy
OXcarbazepine: Valproate Products may decrease the serum concentration of OXcarbazepine. Monitor therapy
Paliperidone: Valproate Products may increase the serum concentration of Paliperidone. Monitor therapy
Primidone: Valproate Products may decrease the metabolism of Primidone. More specifically, the metabolism of phenobarbital, primidones primary active metabolite, may be decreased. Primidone may increase the serum concentration of Valproate Products. Monitor therapy
Protease Inhibitors: May decrease the serum concentration of Valproate Products. Monitor therapy
RifAMPin: May decrease the serum concentration of Valproate Products. Consider therapy modification
RisperiDONE: Valproate Products may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of RisperiDONE. Generalized edema has developed. Monitor therapy
Rufinamide: Valproate Products may increase the serum concentration of Rufinamide. Management: Initiate rufinamide at a dose less than 10 mg/kg/day (children) or 400 mg/day (adults) in patients receiving valproic acid. In patients receiving rufinamide, initiate valproic acid at a low dose and titrate based on clinical response. Consider therapy modification
Salicylates: May increase the serum concentration of Valproate Products. Monitor therapy
Sodium Oxybate: Valproate Products may increase the serum concentration of Sodium Oxybate. Management: Consider a sodium oxybate dose reduction of at least 20% if combined with valproic acid. Consider therapy modification
Temozolomide: Valproate Products may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Temozolomide. Valproate Products may increase the serum concentration of Temozolomide. Monitor therapy
Topiramate: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Valproate Products. Monitor therapy
Tricyclic Antidepressants: Valproate Products may increase the serum concentration of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Monitor therapy
Urea Cycle Disorder Agents: Valproate Products may diminish the therapeutic effect of Urea Cycle Disorder Agents. More specifically, Valproate Products may increase plasma ammonia concentrations and thereby increase the doses of Urea Cycle Disorder Agents needed to maintain concentrations in the target range. Monitor therapy
Vorinostat: Valproate Products may enhance the thrombocytopenic effect of Vorinostat. This may increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding. Monitor therapy
Zidovudine: Valproate Products may increase the serum concentration of Zidovudine. Monitor therapy
Liver enzymes (at baseline and frequently during therapy especially during the first 6 months), CBC with platelets (baseline and periodic intervals), PT/PTT (especially prior to surgery), serum ammonia (with symptoms of lethargy, mental status change), serum valproate levels; suicidality (eg, suicidal thoughts, depression, behavioral changes); motor and cognitive function (for signs or symptoms of brain atrophy)
May cause a false-positive result for urine ketones (valproate partially eliminated as a keto-metabolite in the urine); may alter thyroid function tests
Frequency not always defined.
>10%:
Central nervous system: Headache (3% to ≤31%), drowsiness (2% to 30%), dizziness (>1% to 25%), insomnia (>1% to 15%), pain (1% to 11%), nervousness ( ≤11%)
Dermatologic: Alopecia (>1% to 24%)
Gastrointestinal: Nausea (3% to 48%), vomiting (1% to 27%), dyspepsia (7% to 23%), abdominal pain (1% to 23%), diarrhea ( ≤23%), anorexia (>1% to 12%)
Hematologic & oncologic: Thrombocytopenia (1% to 27%; dose related)
Infection: Infection ( ≤20%)
Neuromuscular & skeletal: Tremor ( ≤57%), weakness ( ≤27%)
Ophthalmic: Diplopia (>1% to 16%), visual disturbance (amblyopia, blurred vision ≤1% to 12%)
Respiratory: Flu-like symptoms (>1% to 12%)
Miscellaneous: Accidental injury (>1% to 11%)
1% to 10%:
Cardiovascular: Peripheral edema (>1% to 8%), chest pain (>1% to 5%), edema (>1% to 5%), facial edema (>1% to 5%), hypertension (>1% to 5%), palpitations (>1% to 5%), tachycardia (>1% to <5%), hypotension (1% to 5%), orthostatic hypotension (1% to 5%), vasodilatation ( ≤5%),
Central nervous system: Ataxia (>1% to 8%), amnesia (>1% to 7%), paresthesia ( ≤7%), abnormality in thinking (>1% to 6%), emotional lability (>1% to 6%), abnormal dreams (>1% to 5%), abnormal gait (>1% to 5%), confusion (>1% to 5%), depression (>1% to 5%), hallucination (>1% to 5%), hypertonia (>1% to 5%), speech disturbance (>1% to 5%), tardive dyskinesia (>1% to 5%), agitation (1% to 5%), catatonia (1% to 5%), chills (1% to 5%), hyper-reflexia (1% to 5%), vertigo (1% to 5%), anxiety (>1% to <5%), malaise (>1% to <5%), myasthenia (>1% to <5%), personality disorder (>1% to <5%), twitching (>1% to <5%), sleep disorder (>1%)
Dermatologic: Skin rash (>1% to 6%), maculopapular rash (>1% to 5%), pruritus (>1% to 5%), xeroderma (>1% to 5%), furunculosis (1% to 5%), seborrhea (1% to 5%), erythema nodosum (>1%), vesiculobullous dermatitis (>1%), diaphoresis
Endocrine & metabolic: Weight gain (>1% to 9%), weight loss (6%), amenorrhea (>1% to <5%), menstrual disease (>1%)
Gastrointestinal: Increased appetite (>1% to 6%), constipation (>1% to 5%), flatulence (>1% to 5%), periodontal abscess (>1% to 5%), fecal incontinence (1% to 5%), gastroenteritis (1% to 5%), glossitis (1% to 5%), stomatitis (1% to 5%), xerostomia (1% to 5%), dysgeusia (>1% to <5%), eructation (>1% to <5%), hematemesis (>1% to <5%), pancreatitis (>1% to <5%), dysphagia, gingival hemorrhage, hiccups, oral mucosa ulcer
Genitourinary: Cystitis (>1% to 5%), dysmenorrhea (>1% to 5%), dysuria (>1% to 5%), urinary incontinence (>1% to 5%), vaginal hemorrhage (>1% to 5%), urinary frequency (>1% to <5%), vaginitis (>1% to <5%)
Hematologic & oncologic: Ecchymoses (>1% to 5%), petechia (>1% to <5%), prolonged bleeding time (>1%), hypoproteinemia
Hepatic: Increased serum ALT (>1% to <5%), increased serum AST (>1% to <5%)
Infection: Viral infection (>1% to 5%), fungal infection (>1%)
Local: Pain at injection site (3%), injection site reaction (2%)
Neuromuscular & skeletal: Back pain (>1% to 8%), arthralgia (>1% to 5%), discoid lupus erythematosus (>1% to 5%), leg cramps (>1% to 5%), hypokinesia (1% to 5%), neck pain (1% to 5%), neck stiffness (1% to 5%), osteoarthritis (1% to 5%), dysarthria (>1% to <5%), myalgia (>1% to <5%)
Ophthalmic: Nystagmus (1% to 8%), conjunctivitis (1% to 5%), dry eye syndrome (1% to 5%), eye pain (1% to 5%), photophobia (>1%)
Otic: Tinnitus (1% to 7%), deafness (>1% to 5%), otitis media (>1% to <5%)
Respiratory: Pharyngitis ( ≤8%), bronchitis (5%), rhinitis (>1% to 5%), dyspnea (1% to 5%), cough (>1% to <5%), epistaxis (>1% to <5%), pneumonia (>1% to <5%), sinusitis (>1% to <5%)
Miscellaneous: Fever (>1% to 6%)
<1% (Limited to important and/or life-threatening): Abnormal thyroid function tests, acute porphyria, aggressive behavior, agranulocytosis, anemia, aplastic anemia, bone fracture, bone marrow depression, bradycardia, brain disease (rare), breast hypertrophy, cerebral atrophy (reversible or irreversible), coma (rare), decreased bone mineral density, decreased plasma carnitine concentrations, decreased platelet aggregation, dementia, DRESS syndrome, eosinophilia, Fanconi-like syndrome (rare, in children), galactorrhea, hemorrhage, hepatic failure, hepatotoxicity, hostility, hyperactivity, hyperammonemia, hyperammonemic encephalopathy (in patients with UCD), hyperandrogenism, hyperglycinemia, hypersensitivity angiitis, hypersensitivity reaction, hypofibrinogenemia, hyponatremia, hypothermia, leukopenia, lymphocytosis, macrocytosis, male infertility, ostealgia, osteopenia, pancytopenia, parotid gland enlargement, polycystic ovary syndrome (rare), psychosis, severe hypersensitivity (with multiorgan dysfunction), SIADH, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, suicidal ideation, suicidal tendencies, toxic epidermal necrolysis (rare), urinary tract infection
A 27% reduction in clearance of unbound valproate is seen in patients with CrCl <10 mL/minute. Hemodialysis reduces valproate concentrations by 20%. Protein binding is reduced, monitoring only total valproate concentrations may be misleading.
Clearance is decreased with liver impairment. Hepatic disease is also associated with decreased albumin concentrations and 2- to 2.6-fold increase in the unbound fraction. Free concentrations of valproate may be elevated while total concentrations appear normal.
Concerns related to adverse effects:
- Brain atrophy: Reversible and irreversible cerebral and cerebellar atrophy have been reported; motor and cognitive function should be routinely monitored to assess for signs and symptoms of brain atrophy.
- CNS depression: May cause CNS depression, which may impair physical or mental abilities; patients must be cautioned about performing tasks which require mental alertness (eg, operating machinery or driving).
- Hepatic failure: [U.S. Boxed Warning]: Hepatic failure resulting in fatalities has occurred in patients, usually in the initial 6 months of therapy; children <2 years of age are at considerable risk. Risk is also increased in patients with hereditary neurometabolic syndromes caused by DNA mutations of the mitochondrial DNA polymerase gamma (POLG) gene (eg, Alpers-Huttenlocher syndrome [AHS]). Other risk factors include organic brain disease, mental retardation with severe seizure disorders, congenital metabolic disorders, and patients on multiple anticonvulsants. Monitor patients closely for appearance of malaise, weakness, facial edema, anorexia, jaundice, and vomiting; discontinue immediately with signs/symptom of significant or suspected impairment. Liver function tests should be performed at baseline and at regular intervals after initiation of therapy, especially within the first 6 months. Hepatic dysfunction may progress despite discontinuing treatment. Should only be used as monotherapy and with extreme caution in children <2 years of age and/or patients at high risk for hepatotoxicity.
- Hyperammonemia/encephalopathy: Hyperammonemia and/or encephalopathy, sometimes fatal, has been reported following the initiation of valproate therapy and may be present with normal transaminase levels. Ammonia levels should be measured in patients who develop unexplained lethargy and vomiting, or changes in mental status or in patients who present with hypothermia. Discontinue therapy if ammonia levels are increased and evaluate for possible urea cycle disorder (UCD). Hyperammonemic encephalopathy has been reported in patients with UCD, particularly ornithine transcarbamylase deficiency. Use is contraindicated in patients with known UCD. Evaluation of UCD should be considered for the following patients prior to the start of therapy: History of unexplained encephalopathy or coma; encephalopathy associated with protein load; pregnancy or postpartum encephalopathy; unexplained mental retardation; history of elevated plasma ammonia or glutamine; history of cyclical vomiting and lethargy; episodic extreme irritability, ataxia; low BUN or protein avoidance; family history of UCD or unexplained infant deaths (particularly male); or signs or symptoms of UCD (hyperammonemia, encephalopathy, respiratory alkalosis). Hyperammonemia and/or encephalopathy may also occur with concomitant topiramate therapy in patients who previously tolerated monotherapy with either medication.
- Hypothermia: Hypothermia (unintentional drop in core body temperature to <35 ‚ °C/95 ‚ °F) has been reported with valproate therapy; hypothermia may or may not be associated with hyperammonemia; may also occur with concomitant topiramate therapy following topiramate initiation or dosage increase.
- Multiorgan hypersensitivity reactions (also known as drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms [DRESS]): Potentially serious, sometimes fatal multiorgan hypersensitivity reactions have rarely been reported with some antiepileptic drugs including valproate therapy in adults and children; monitor for signs and symptoms of possible disparate manifestations associated with lymphatic, hepatic, renal, and/or hematologic organ systems; discontinuation and conversion to alternate therapy may be required.
- Pancreatitis: [U.S. Boxed Warning]: Cases of life-threatening pancreatitis, occurring at the start of therapy or following years of use, have been reported in adults and children. Some cases have been hemorrhagic with rapid progression of initial symptoms to death. Promptly evaluate symptoms of abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and/or anorexia; should generally be discontinued if pancreatitis is diagnosed.
- Suicidal ideation: Pooled analysis of trials involving various antiepileptics (regardless of indication) showed an increased risk of suicidal thoughts/behavior (incidence rate: 0.43% treated patients compared to 0.24% of patients receiving placebo); risk observed as early as 1 week after initiation and continued through duration of trials (most trials ≤24 weeks). Monitor all patients for notable changes in behavior that might indicate suicidal thoughts or depression; notify healthcare provider immediately if symptoms occur.
- Blood disorders: May cause dose-related thrombocytopenia, inhibition of platelet aggregation, and bleeding. In some cases, platelet counts may be normalized with continued treatment; however, reduce dose or discontinue drug if patient develops evidence of hemorrhage, bruising, or a disorder of hemostasis/coagulation. Evaluate platelet counts prior to initiating therapy and periodically thereafter. In addition to platelets, valproate may be associated with a decrease in other cell lines and myelodysplasia.
Disease-related concerns:
- Acute head trauma: Not recommended for post-traumatic seizure prophylaxis in patients with acute head trauma; study results for this indication suggested increased mortality with IV valproate use compared to IV phenytoin.
- Hepatic impairment: Contraindicated with significant impairment.
- Mitochondrial disease: [U.S. Boxed Warning]: Risk of valproate-induced acute liver failure and death is increased in patients with hereditary neurometabolic syndromes caused by DNA mutations of the mitochondrial polymerase gamma (POLG) gene (eg, Alpers Huttenlocher syndrome [AHS]). Use is contraindicated in patients with known mitochondrial disorders caused by POLG mutations and children <2 years of age suspected of having a POLG-related disorder. Use in children ≥2 years of age suspected of having a POLG-related disorder only after other anticonvulsants have failed and with close monitoring for the development of acute liver injury. POLG mutation testing should be performed in accordance with current clinical practice.
Concurrent drug therapy issues:
- Drug-drug interactions: Potentially significant interactions may exist, requiring dose or frequency adjustment, additional monitoring, and/or selection of alternative therapy. Consult drug interactions database for more detailed information.
- Sedatives: CNS effects may be potentiated when used with other sedative drugs or ethanol.
Special populations:
- Elderly: Use with caution as elderly patients may be more sensitive to sedating effects and dehydration; in some elderly patients with somnolence, concomitant decreases in nutritional intake and weight loss were observed. Reduce initial dosages in elderly and closely monitor fluid status, nutritional intake, somnolence, and other adverse events.
- Pediatric: Children <2 years of age are at increased risk for fatal hepatotoxicity; if valproate therapy is used in this age group, use with extreme caution and only as monotherapy.
- Pregnancy: [U.S. Boxed Warning]: May cause major congenital malformations such as neural tube defects (eg, spina bifida) and decreased IQ scores following in utero exposure. Use is contraindicated in pregnant women for the prevention of migraine. Use is not recommended in women of childbearing potential for any other condition unless valproate is essential to manage her condition and alternative therapies are not appropriate. Effective contraception should be used during therapy.
Special handling:
- Hazardous agent: Use appropriate precautions for handling and disposal (NIOSH 2014 [groups 2 and 3]). Divalproex is group 2 and valproic acid is group 3.
Other warnings/precautions:
- Gastrointestinal: Medication residue in stool has been reported (rarely) with oral Depakote (divalproex sodium) formulations; some reports have occurred in patients with shortened GI transit times (eg, diarrhea) or anatomic GI disorders (eg, ileostomy, colostomy). In patients reporting medication residue in stool, it is recommended to monitor valproate level and clinical condition.
- Viral replication: In vitro studies have suggested valproate stimulates the replication of HIV and CMV viruses under experimental conditions. The clinical consequence of this is unknown, but should be considered when monitoring affected patients.
- Withdrawal: Anticonvulsants should not be discontinued abruptly because of the possibility of increasing seizure frequency; therapy should be withdrawn gradually to minimize the potential of increased seizure frequency, unless safety concerns require a more rapid withdrawal.
X (migraine prophylaxis)/D (all other indications)
Adverse events have been observed in animal reproduction studies and in human pregnancies. [U.S. Boxed Warning]: May cause major congenital malformations, such as neural tube defects (eg, spina bifida) and decreased IQ scores following in utero exposure. Use is contraindicated in pregnant women for the prevention of migraine. Use is not recommended in women of childbearing potential for any other condition unless valproate is essential to manage her condition and alternative therapies are not appropriate. Effective contraception should be used during therapy.
Valproic acid crosses the placenta (Harden 2009b). Neural tube defects, craniofacial defects, cardiovascular malformations, hypospadias, and limb malformations have been reported. Information from the North American Antiepileptic Drug Pregnancy Registry notes the rate of major malformations to be 9% to 11% following an average exposure to valproate monotherapy 1,000 mg/day; this is an increase in congenital malformations when compared with monotherapy with other antiepileptic drugs (AED). Based on data from the CDC National Birth Defects Prevention Network, the risk of spinal bifida is approximately 1% to 2% following valproate exposure (general population risk estimated to be 0.06% to 0.07%).
Nonteratogenic adverse effects have also been reported. Decreased IQ scores have been noted in children exposed to valproate in utero when compared to children exposed to other antiepileptic medications or no antiepileptic medications; the risk of autism spectrum disorders may also be increased. Fatal hepatic failure and hypoglycemia in infants have been noted in case reports following in utero exposure to valproic acid.
Clotting factor abnormalities (hypofibrinogenemia, thrombocytopenia, or decrease in other coagulation factors) may develop in the mother following valproate use during pregnancy; close monitoring of coagulation factors is recommended.
Current guidelines recommend complete avoidance of valproic acid and derivatives for the treatment of epilepsy in pregnant women whenever possible (Harden 2009a), especially when used for conditions not associated with permanent injury or risk of death. Effective contraception should be used during treatment. When pregnancy is being planned, consider tapering off of therapy prior to conception if appropriate; abrupt discontinuation of therapy may cause status epilepticus and lead to maternal and fetal hypoxia. Folic acid decreases the risk of neural tube defects in the general population; supplementation with folic acid should be used prior to conception and during pregnancy in all women, including those taking valproate.
A pregnancy registry is available for women who have been exposed to valproic acid. Patients may enroll themselves in the North American Antiepileptic Drug (NAAED) Pregnancy Registry by calling (888) 233-2334. Additional information is available at www.aedpregnancyregistry.org.
Causes increased availability of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), an inhibitory neurotransmitter, to brain neurons or may enhance the action of GABA or mimic its action at postsynaptic receptor sites. Divalproex sodium is a compound of sodium valproate and valproic acid; divalproex dissociates to valproate in the GI tract.
Distributes into CSF at concentrations similar to unbound concentration in plasma (ie, ¢ ˆ ¼10% of total plasma concentration)
Vd: Total valproate: 11 L/1.73 m2; Free valproate 92 L/1.73 m2
Extensively hepatic via glucuronide conjugation (30% to 50% of administered dose) and 40% via mitochondrial beta-oxidation; other oxidative metabolic pathways occur to a lesser extent. The relationship between dose and total valproate concentration is nonlinear; concentration does not increase proportionally with the dose, but increases to a lesser extent due to saturable plasma protein binding. The kinetics of unbound drug are linear.
Urine (30% to 50% as glucuronide conjugate, <3% as unchanged drug); faster clearance in children who receive other antiepileptic drugs and those who are younger; age and polytherapy explain 80% of interpatient variability in total clearance; children >10 years of age have pharmacokinetic parameters similar to adults
Oral: Depakote tablet and sprinkle capsules: ~4 hours; Depakote ER: 4 to 17 hours; Stavzor: 2 hours
Rectal (off-label route): 1 to 3 hours (Graves 1987)
Increased in neonates, elderly, and patients with liver impairment
Newborns (exposed to VPA in utero): 30 to 60 hours
Neonates first week of life: 40 to 45 hours
Neonates <10 days: 10 to 67 hours
Infants and Children >2 months: 7 to 13 hours
Children and Adolescents 2 to 14 years: 9 hours (range: 3.5 to 20 hours) (Cloyd 1993)
Adults: 9 to 16 hours
Concentration dependent: 80% to 90%; free fraction: ~10% at 40 mcg/mL and ~18.5% at 130 mcg/mL; protein binding decreased in neonates, the elderly and patients with hepatic or renal impairment
- Discuss specific use of drug and side effects with patient as it relates to treatment. (HCAHPS: During this hospital stay, were you given any medicine that you had not taken before? Before giving you any new medicine, how often did hospital staff tell you what the medicine was for? How often did hospital staff describe possible side effects in a way you could understand?)
- Patient may experience headache, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, fatigue, constipation, diarrhea, abdominal pain, insomnia, lack of appetite, more hungry, weight gain or loss, or hair loss. Have patient report immediately to prescriber signs of infection, signs of liver problems (dark urine, feeling tired, lack of appetite, nausea, abdominal pain, light-colored stools, vomiting, or yellow skin or eyes), signs of a pancreas problem (pancreatitis; severe abdominal pain, severe back pain, severe nausea, or vomiting), signs of depression (suicidal ideation, anxiety, emotional instability, illogical thinking), angina, arrhythmia, swelling of arms or legs, vision changes, confusion, memory impairment, loss of strength and energy, change in balance, abnormal gait, bruising, bleeding, purple or red spots on skin, urinary retention, change in amount of urine passed, enlarged lymph nodes, muscle pain, muscle weakness, joint pain, joint edema, tremors, seizures, involuntary eye movements, tinnitus, or cold, sensation (HCAHPS).
- Educate patient about signs of a significant reaction (eg, wheezing; chest tightness; fever; itching; bad cough; blue skin color; seizures; or swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat). Note: This is not a comprehensive list of all side effects. Patient should consult prescriber for additional questions.
Intended Use and Disclaimer: Should not be printed and given to patients. This information is intended to serve as a concise initial reference for healthcare professionals to use when discussing medications with a patient. You must ultimately rely on your own discretion, experience and judgment in diagnosing, treating and advising patients.