Valproic Acid
Pronunciation: (val-PRO-ik AS-id).
- Generic name
- Valproic acid
- Brand names
- Orlept, Dicorate, Depakene, Epilim, Valprease, Stavzor
- Drug class
- Anticonvulsant; Mood Stabilizer
Availability and supply rules vary by country
Trade names by country: Canada
Australia: · Full directory
What Valproic acid is and how it works
Uses, formulations, monitoring, and supply rules can differ by patient, product, and country. Follow the exact local product information and professional advice.
Mechanism of action: how Valproic acid works
Valproic acid increases the concentration of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), an inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system, by inhibiting GABA transaminase and possibly by enhancing GABA synthesis. It also blocks voltage-gated sodium channels and T-type calcium channels, stabilizing neuronal membranes and reducing neuronal excitability. (1)
What Valproic acid is used for
Epilepsy (all seizure types)
Epilepsy (all seizure types) (1)
Bipolar disorder (manic and mixed episodes)
Bipolar disorder (manic and mixed episodes) (1)
Migraine prophylaxis
Migraine prophylaxis (1)
Before taking Valproic acid
Do not take / not appropriate for
- Contraindicated in patients with active liver disease, significant hepatic dysfunction, known urea cycle disorders, or mitochondrial disorders due to POLG mutations. (Contraindication) (1)
- Use with extreme caution in children under 2 years, pregnant women, and those with a history of pancreatitis or bleeding disorders. (Contraindication) (1)
Tell your clinician about
(1)How to take Valproic acid
- General Instructions: Take valproic acid exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not change your dose or stop taking the medication without medical advice.. Adult Dosing: For epilepsy: Initial dose is typically 10–15 mg/kg/day, gradually increased to a usual maintenance dose of 15–60 mg/kg/day in divided doses. For bipolar disorder: 750 mg/day in divided doses, titrated as needed. Dosage may vary based on condition and response.. Pediatric Dosing: Children: Initial dose is usually 10–15 mg/kg/day, increased gradually. Maximum recommended dose is 60 mg/kg/day. Dosing should be individualized and closely monitored.. Administration: Swallow tablets or capsules whole with water; do not crush or chew. Oral solution should be measured carefully. Take with food if stomach upset occurs. IV form is given by a healthcare professional.. When To Seek Review: Do not stop taking valproic acid suddenly unless directed by your doctor, as this may increase the risk of seizures or mood instability.. Storage: Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep out of reach of children.
- This page does not provide a dose calculator. Dosing must follow the prescriber, pharmacist, or product label.
Procedures and treatment changes
Tell the treating team before surgery, procedures, or any medicine change. Do not alter treatment without the responsible clinician. (1)
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, contact your prescriber or pharmacist for guidance on the missed dose and take your next dose at the regular time. do not take an extra dose to catch up.
Overdose
In case of overdose, seek emergency medical attention immediately. Symptoms may include extreme drowsiness, confusion, loss of consciousness, respiratory depression, or coma. Supportive care and hospital monitoring are required. (1)
Side effects
Side effects and their urgency vary; report severe, persistent, or concerning symptoms to a healthcare professional.
Nausea
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Vomiting
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Diarrhea
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Tremor
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Drowsiness
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Hair loss
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Weight gain
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Liver damage
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Serious warnings
US FDA BOXED WARNING (three-part) — serious
Symptoms: US FDA BOXED WARNING (three-part): (1) Hepatotoxicity — life-threatening liver failure has occurred, usually in the first 6 months of treatment; children under 2 years and patients with mitochondrial disorders (including POLG mutations) are at highest risk. Liver function should be tested before starting and at frequent intervals, especially during the first 6 months. (2) Fetal risk — valproate can cause major congenital malformations (including neural tube defects) and decreased IQ/neurodevelopmental disorders after in-utero exposure; valproate should not be used to treat migraine or used in women of childbearing potential unless other options are inadequate, and must not be used for any indication in pregnant women with bipolar disorder except when other treatments have failed, given the availability of alternatives with a better safety profile. (3) Pancreatitis — life-threatening pancreatitis has occurred in both children and adults, sometimes shortly after initiation and sometimes after years of use; abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and/or anorexia require prompt medical evaluation.
Action: Follow the urgency stated and seek prompt or emergency care when indicated. (1)
Contraindications recorded in the clinician database — serious
Symptoms: Contraindications recorded in the clinician database: Contraindicated in patients with active liver disease, significant hepatic dysfunction, known urea cycle disorders, or mitochondrial disorders due to POLG mutations. Use with extreme caution in children under 2 years, pregnant women, and those with a history of pancreatitis or bleeding disorders. Monitor for signs of hepatotoxicity, pancreatitis, and thrombocytopenia.
Action: Follow the urgency stated and seek prompt or emergency care when indicated. (1)
May increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior (a class warning for antiepileptic drugs) — seek prompt medical help for new or worsening depression, anxiety, or suicidal thinking — serious
Symptoms: May increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior (a class warning for antiepileptic drugs) — seek prompt medical help for new or worsening depression, anxiety, or suicidal thinking. Monitor for unusual bleeding or bruising, which can indicate thrombocytopenia or other blood-count abnormalities.
Action: Follow the urgency stated and seek prompt or emergency care when indicated. (1)
Interactions
| Medicine or test | Effect | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Recorded interactions | Valproic acid can interact with many medications, including other anticonvulsants (such as phenytoin, carbamazepine, lamotrigine), anticoagulants, aspirin, and certain antibiotics. These interactions may increase side effects or reduce effectiveness. Always inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking. | (1) |
Pregnancy, breastfeeding, kidney/liver function, age
Pregnancy
US FDA BOXED WARNING applies: valproate can cause major congenital malformations (including neural tube defects such as spina bifida) and decreased IQ/neurodevelopmental disorders following in-utero exposure. It should not be used to treat migraine in any pregnant woman, and should not be used in women of childbearing potential unless other treatment options are inadequate, given the availability of alternatives with a better safety profile. Women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception while taking valproate. (1)
Breastfeeding
The FDA label reviewed for this page states valproate is excreted into human breast milk; limited data suggest infant serum levels are typically low relative to maternal levels, but the effects on a nursing infant are not fully established. The decision to breastfeed while taking valproate should be made with the prescriber, weighing the mother's clinical need and monitoring the infant for signs of liver injury or unusual drowsiness. (1)
Children
Frequency: Dosing frequency for children is typically every 8-12 hours.. Weight Based: Initial dose of 10-15 mg/kg/day, titrated to a maintenance dose of 20-60 mg/kg/day.. Max Daily Dose: Maximum daily dose for children is 2500 mg.. Max Single Dose: Maximum single dose for children is 60 mg/kg.. Age Restrictions: Not recommended for pediatric use under 2 years of age; safety not established in children under 2. (1)
Renal_impairment
Per the FDA label reviewed for this page: hepatic impairment — valproate is CONTRAINDICATED in patients with known hepatic disease or significant hepatic dysfunction, given the boxed-warning risk of fatal hepatotoxicity; the risk is highest in the first 6 months and decreases substantially in older patients. Renal impairment — valproate is extensively protein-bound, and the unbound (active) fraction increases in patients with renal impairment or low serum albumin; the label advises dose reduction may be needed based on clinical monitoring, and monitoring total and free valproate concentrations is recommended, since standard total-level assays may under-represent the active drug level in this population. (1)
Hepatic_impairment
Per the FDA label reviewed for this page: hepatic impairment — valproate is CONTRAINDICATED in patients with known hepatic disease or significant hepatic dysfunction, given the boxed-warning risk of fatal hepatotoxicity; the risk is highest in the first 6 months and decreases substantially in older patients. Renal impairment — valproate is extensively protein-bound, and the unbound (active) fraction increases in patients with renal impairment or low serum albumin; the label advises dose reduction may be needed based on clinical monitoring, and monitoring total and free valproate concentrations is recommended, since standard total-level assays may under-represent the active drug level in this population. (1)
Monitoring
(1)Storage
Per the FDA label, store valproic acid capsules/tablets/oral solution at 20-25 degrees C (68-77 degrees F), with excursions permitted to 15-30 degrees C (59-86 degrees F); keep tightly closed and out of reach of children. The extended-release/delayed-release forms should not be crushed or chewed.
Study the drug class: Antiepileptics · Mood stabilisers
Professional information
Clinician-facing context only. This section does not replace current product labeling.
General
Indication: Epilepsy (all seizure types)
Dose summary: Initial dose of 10-15 mg/kg/day, titrated to a maintenance dose of 20-60 mg/kg/day based on clinical response and serum levels.
Renal context: Per the FDA label, valproate is extensively protein-bound and its unbound (pharmacologically active) fraction increases in patients with renal impairment or low serum albumin. The label advises that dose reduction may be needed based on clinical response and monitoring, and recommends monitoring free (unbound) as well as total valproate concentrations in this population, since a normal total level can still reflect an elevated free level. (1)
Frequently asked questions
What conditions does valproic acid treat?
Valproic acid is used to treat epilepsy (various seizure types), bipolar disorder (as a mood stabilizer), and to prevent migraine headaches.
Is valproic acid safe during pregnancy?
Valproic acid is not recommended during pregnancy due to a high risk of birth defects and developmental disorders. Women of childbearing age should use effective contraception and discuss risks with their doctor.
How long does it take for valproic acid to work?
Some people may notice improvement in seizure control or mood within a few days, but full effects may take several weeks. Consistent use and regular monitoring are important.
Can I drink alcohol while taking valproic acid?
Alcohol should be avoided, as it can increase drowsiness and the risk of liver problems when combined with valproic acid.
What should I do if I experience side effects?
Contact your healthcare provider if you experience bothersome or serious side effects. Seek emergency help for symptoms like severe abdominal pain, jaundice, or difficulty breathing.
Do I need regular blood tests while on valproic acid?
Yes, regular blood tests are needed to monitor drug levels, liver function, and blood counts to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Can I stop taking valproic acid suddenly?
No, do not stop taking valproic acid suddenly without medical advice, as this can increase the risk of seizures or mood instability.
What happens if I take too much Valproic acid?
Taking too much Valproic acid can lead to serious symptoms such as drowsiness, confusion, loss of consciousness, and even coma. In severe cases, respiratory depression and heart problems may occur. If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate emergency medical attention or call poison control. Do not attempt to induce vomiting.
What is the mechanism of action of Valproic acid?
Valproic acid increases the concentration of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), an inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system, by inhibiting GABA transaminase and possibly by enhancing GABA synthesis. It also blocks voltage-gated sodium channels and T-type calcium channels, stabilizing neuronal membranes and reducing neuronal excitability. (1)
What is the generic name of Valproic Acid?
The generic name is Valproic acid. It is sold under brand names including Orlept, Dicorate, Depakene, Epilim, Valprease, Stavzor.
What class of drug is Valproic acid?
Valproic Acid is classed as: Anticonvulsant; Mood Stabilizer.
References
- Valproic acid — Prescribing InformationUnknown (US DailyMed presumed) · United States · accessed 2026-08-07 · source 1
- VALPROIC ACID SOLUTION [AMERICAN HEALTH PACKAGING] — US prescribing information (DailyMed SPL)U.S. National Library of Medicine (DailyMed) · US · accessed 2026-08-14 · source 2
- Valproic Acid — patient drug information (MedlinePlus)U.S. National Library of Medicine (MedlinePlus) · US · accessed 2026-08-14 · source 3
- Valproic Acid — FDA approval record (Drugs@FDA ANDA073178)U.S. Food and Drug Administration · US · accessed 2026-08-14 · source 4
- Valproic acid — RxNorm normalized drug concept (RXCUI 11118)U.S. National Library of Medicine (RxNorm) · US · accessed 2026-08-14 · source 5
Brand names by country
Single-ingredient Valproic acid names are shown separately by country. Product availability, strengths, and supply rules can change; combination products are not included here.
Priority countries
Canada
- DIVALPROEX
- EPIVAL
- DEPAKENE
- APO-DIVALPROEX
- TEVA-DIVALPROEX
- PMS-DIVALPROEX
- DOM-DIVALPROEX
- MYLAN-DIVALPROEX
- PMS-VALPROIC ACID E.C.
- DOM-VALPROIC ACID E.C.