Patient/caregiver was instructed upon mechanism of action and therapeutic uses of divalproex sodium 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.
- Divalproex sodium is an anticonvulsant medication that increases the levels of GABA in the brain. Divalproex sodium also inhibits the breakdown of GABA, consequently leading to increased concentrations of the same in the brain.
- Divalproex sodium is also considered to inhibit the entry of sodium into the cells, by inhibiting the sodium channels.
- By increasing the concentrations of GABA in the brain and inhibiting the sodium ion entry into the cells, divalproex sodium helps with controlling the rapid firing of nerve impulses and reducing the excitation of the nerves.
- Thus, divalproex sodium can help with reducing/preventing seizure activity. Divalproex sodium can be used as an anticonvulsant in prevention of grand-mal and partial seizures. By reducing the excitation of nerves, divalproex sodium also helps with controlling the symptoms of mania and anxiety.
