Valproate

Valproate is a branched-chain fatty-acid drug used to treat epilepsy and bipolar disorder. It is administered as valproic acid or one of its salts and can cause serious fetal harm.

Voltage-gated sodium channel: A membrane protein that opens in response to voltage changes, allowing sodium ions to cross cell membranes. Valproate reduces repetitive neuronal firing partly by limiting sodium-channel activity.
Epilepsy: A neurological disorder characterized by an enduring predisposition to recurrent unprovoked seizures. Valproate is used for several seizure types, including generalized seizures.
Lamotrigine: An antiseizure medication also used to prevent depressive episodes in bipolar disorder. Lamotrigine is often considered when valproate’s reproductive risks are unacceptable.
Valproic acid: The protonated form of valproate, used as an oral or intravenous medication. Valproic acid is one of the active drug forms included under valproate treatment.
Beverly Burton: A British pharmacologist associated with the discovery of valproic acid’s anticonvulsant activity. Burton’s animal experiments revealed an antiseizure effect while valproic acid served as a solvent.
GABA: The principal inhibitory neurotransmitter in the mammalian central nervous system. Valproate can increase brain GABA levels, strengthening inhibitory signaling.
Bipolar disorder: A mental disorder marked by episodes of mania or hypomania and often depression. Valproate is used to treat manic episodes and, in some cases, support maintenance treatment.
Lithium: A mood-stabilizing medication used especially for bipolar disorder and reduction of suicide risk. Lithium offers a different treatment profile for bipolar disorder, with distinct monitoring needs.
Divalproex sodium: A compound of sodium valproate and valproic acid used in delayed-release and extended-release medicines. Divalproex sodium is a widely used formulation with distinct release characteristics.
Pierre Eymard: A French physician who helped establish valproate’s clinical use for epilepsy. Eymard was among the clinicians who translated early anticonvulsant findings into patient treatment.

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