Last reviewed · How we verify
valproic acid (VPA)
Valproic acid acts as a sodium channel blocker and inhibits the release of excitatory neurotransmitters.
Valproic acid acts as a sodium channel blocker and inhibits the release of excitatory neurotransmitters. Used for Seizure prevention in epilepsy, Mood stabilization in bipolar disorder.
At a glance
| Generic name | valproic acid (VPA) |
|---|---|
| Also known as | Valrpoic acid, Phenytoin, Benzodiazepines, Status Epilepticus Refractarius, Depakene |
| Sponsor | Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge |
| Drug class | Anticonvulsant |
| Target | Voltage-gated sodium channels |
| Modality | Small molecule |
| Therapeutic area | Neurology |
| Phase | Phase 3 |
Mechanism of action
Valproic acid's mechanism of action is primarily through the blockade of voltage-gated sodium channels, which reduces the release of excitatory neurotransmitters such as glutamate. This leads to a decrease in neuronal excitability and a subsequent reduction in seizure activity. Additionally, valproic acid has been shown to have a stabilizing effect on neuronal membranes, further contributing to its anticonvulsant properties.
Approved indications
- Seizure prevention in epilepsy
- Mood stabilization in bipolar disorder
Common side effects
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Somnolence
- Weight gain
Key clinical trials
- Evaluation of Intravenous Sodium Valproate on Interleukin-6 Levels in Patients With TMJ Disc Displacement (PHASE2)
- A Study to Assess the Long-term Safety of KarXT for the Treatment of Manic Episodes in Bipolar-I Disorder (BALSAM-3) (PHASE3)
- Sunitinib Malate or Valproic Acid in Preventing Metastasis in Patients With High-Risk Uveal Melanoma (PHASE2)
- A Study of the Effectiveness of Risk Minimization Measures Related to Depakine® (Sodium Valproate) in Saudi Arabia
- A Study to Evaluate the Effects of Lithium, Valproic Acid, and Lamotrigine on the Pharmacokinetics of KarXT and Effects of KarXT on the Pharmacokinetics of Lithium, Valproic Acid, and Lamotrigine in Healthy Participants (PHASE1)
- A Study to Evaluate the Efficacy and Safety of Adjunctive KarXT for the Treatment of Mania, With or Without Mixed Features, in Participants With Bipolar-I Disorder Taking Lithium, Valproate, or Lamotrigine (PHASE3)
- Drug Interaction Study of ZYN002 Transdermal Gel and Probe Substrates (PHASE1)
- The Combination of Pharmacotherapy and Cognitive Behavioral Psychotherapy Under the Recovery Perspective. (PHASE1)
Primary sources
Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.
| Source | Used for |
|---|---|
| ClinicalTrials.gov | Trial enrolment, design, endpoints, results |