Patient/caregiver was educated on contraindications for using Valproic Acid as follows:
- Valproic Acid can interact with a lot of other medications, thus influencing metabolism and therapeutic benefits of self. Concomitant administration of drugs like phenytoin and carbamazepine can result in the induction of some liver enzymes, which leads to increased metabolism of Valproic Acid. Increased metabolism of Valproic Acid by these enzymes will quickly reduce the blood levels of Valproic Acid, thus compromising the therapeutic benefit of the medication. Discuss with your physician regarding all your medications and their safety with Valproic Acid.
- Valproic Acid use carries significant risk of causing acute inflammation of pancreas, which can be very dangerous. Valproic Acid could be avoided in individuals with history of pancreatitis, to prevent an incident of recurrence. Individuals with acute pancreatitis can present with acute upper abdominal pain and tenderness that can aggravate after eating, nausea and vomiting, abdominal fullness and distension, and bloating.
