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 course of time. Proper hydration measures and compliance with fluid resuscitation recommendations can help with relief from diarrhea. Observing compliance with any OTC or prescribed antacids can help with the burning sensation in the stomach. If you experience any further bothersome gastrointestinal symptoms, report it to your physician or home health personnel for further recommendations.
- Valproic Acid use can result in damage to the liver and hepatotoxicity. Individuals can present with severe nausea and vomiting, right upper quadrant abdominal pain, compromised body metabolism, and diminished appetite, and elevated bilirubin in the blood. Elevated bilirubin can result in yellowing of the eyes, intense itching, and dark yellow urine.
- Valproic Acid use can result in inflammation of pancreas and result in compromised function. Individuals can present with severe nausea and vomiting, upper abdominal pain that can worsen with food intake and radiate to the back, and compromised body metabolism. Reduced body metabolism can contribute to diminished appetite and weight loss.
