|
|
Article: Valproic acid
- Article from:
- Gale Encyclopedia of Mental Disorders
- Author:
CopyrightCOPYRIGHT 2003 The Gale Group Inc. This material is published under license from the publisher through the Gale Group, Farmington Hills, Michigan. All inquiries regarding rights should be directed to the Gale Group. (Hide copyright information)
|
Valproic acid
Definition
Valproic acid is an anticonvulsant (anti-seizure) drug. In the United States, valproic acid is also known as valproate, and is sold under the brand name Depakene.
Purpose
The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recognizes valproic acid for the treatment of epilepsy and for mania that occurs with
bipolar disorder
(previously called manic-depressive disorder). Valproic acid is also approved for the prevention of migraine headaches.
Description
Valproic acid's properties in preventing
seizures
were first discovered in Europe in 1963. The medication was first used clinically in the United Stated in 1978.
Valproic acid is effective in treating ...