Side Effects of Valproic Acid-3

Patient/caregiver was educated on the side-effects of using Valproic Acid as follows: Gastrointestinal side-effects                                                                                                 Valproic Acid use can result in common general constitutional symptoms such as, nausea and vomiting. Taking Valproic Acid after having a meal or a snack can help avoid having unpleasant gastrointestinal symptoms with the medication. Valproic Acid use can result in stomach upset, mild burning sensation of the stomach, and episodes of diarrhea, which can be self-limiting and resolve in due [...]

Side Effects of Valproic Acid-2

Patient/caregiver was educated on the side-effects of using Valproic Acid as follows: Central nervous system side-effects                                        Valproic Acid use can result in episodes of confusion, hallucinations, dizziness, and light-headedness. Closely watching for the therapeutic response and developing side-effects allows appropriate changes in the dose of Valproic Acid, to help optimum control of your symptoms and can also contribute to controlling/reducing the risk for drowsiness and dizziness due to the medication. If the dizziness becomes bothersome, [...]

Side Effects of Valproic Acid-1

Patient/caregiver was educated on the side-effects of using Valproic Acid as follows: General allergic reactions                                  Valproic Acid use can result in general allergic reactions, such as, skin rashes, hives, and itching. Some patients can present with symptoms of severe allergic and anaphylactic response with Valproic Acid, such as, difficulty breathing, swelling of face, lips, throat, and tongue, with consequent difficulty breathing. Seek emergency medical help for such findings, especially with difficulty breathing, for any appropriate [...]

How to Use Valproic Acid

Patient/caregiver was educated on how to take Valproic Acid as follows: Take this medication as ordered by your physician. Do not change the dose and frequency on this medication without consulting your doctor. Take the medication dose for the duration prescribed without fail. Take the medication dose at the same time, every day, to avoid forgetting the intake of medication. Taking the medication at regularly spaced intervals help maintain appropriate blood levels of Valproic Acid [...]

Therapeutic Uses and Mechanism of Action of Valproic Acid

Patient/caregiver was instructed upon mechanism of action and therapeutic uses of Valproic Acid as follows: Entry of sodium ions into the nerve cells, through the sodium channels, result in neuronal firing. Rapid firing of nerve impulses is considered responsible for seizure activity, and mania. Gama-amino butyric acid (GABA) is an inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain that helps with controlling the rapid firing of nerve impulses, and contributes towards relief from seizures and symptoms of mania. [...]