valproic acid /valprō″ik/ , an anticonvulsant. ▪ INDICATIONS: It is prescribed alone or in combination to treat complex partial seizures, absence seizures occurring alone or in combination with other types of seizures, mania associated with bipolar disorder, and migraine prophylaxis. ▪ CONTRAINDICATIONS: It is not recommended for use during pregnancy or lactation. Hepatic disease or dysfunction, urea cycle disorders, and known hypersensitivity to this drug prohibit its use. ▪ ADVERSE EFFECTS: Among the more severe adverse effects are decreased platelet function, hepatotoxicity, and pancreatitis. GI disturbances are common. Alopecia, rash, headache, and insomnia also may occur. A sometimes fatal hyperammonemic encephalopathy has occurred in patients with known or suspected urea cycle disorders.
