Before you begin using a medication, be sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions or Allergies you may have, any medications you are taking, whether you are pregnant or breast-feeding, and any other significant facts about your health. These factors may affect how you should use Valproic (Valproic-acid).
Blood clotting: Valproic (Valproic-acid) may make it more difficult for the blood to clot. If you take anticoagulant (blood thinning) medications, discuss with your doctor how Valproic (Valproic-acid) may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Valproic (Valproic-acid), and whether any special monitoring is needed. If you notice any signs of bleeding, such as frequent nosebleeds, unexplained bruising, or black and tarry stools, notify your doctor as soon as possible. Your doctor will order routine blood tests to make sure potential problems are caught early.
Take appropriate precautions and ensure that all doctors involved in your care are aware of all medication use. Tests for blood clotting should take place before any surgery. Platelet count and coagulant tests should take place before starting treatment with valproic acid.
Drowsiness/reduced alertness: Valproic acid may affect the mental or physical abilities needed to drive or operate machinery. Avoid driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous tasks until you have determined how Valproic (Valproic-acid) affects you.
Hypersensitivity syndrome: A Anaphylaxis (severe allergic reaction) called hypersensitivity syndrome has occurred for some people with the use of valproic acid. Stop taking the medication and get immediate medical attention if you have symptoms of a severe allergic reaction, including fever, swollen glands, yellowing of the skin or eyes, or flu-like symptoms with skin rash or blistering.
Kidney function: Kidney Disease or reduced kidney function may cause Valproic (Valproic-acid) to build up in the body, causing side effects. If you have reduced kidney function or kidney disease, discuss with your doctor how Valproic (Valproic-acid) may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Valproic (Valproic-acid), and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Liver function: Liver failure has occurred infrequently for people taking valproic acid, usually during the first 6 months of treatment. Children under 2 years of age who take valproic acid together with other Epilepsy medications are at greatest risk (nearly 20 times greater) of developing serious liver problems. These children typically have other medical conditions such as congenital metabolic disorders, severe seizure disorders accompanied by mental retardation, or organic brain disease. Liver function tests should take place before starting treatment with valproic acid.
Symptoms that can occur before serious liver problems include seizure control, malaise, weakness, lethargy, loss of appetite, and vomiting. People who take valproic acid should tell their doctor at once if they experience these symptoms. Increases in the levels of ammonia in the blood, with or without lethargy or coma, have been reported and may be present despite normal liver function tests.
Pancreatitis: Cases of life-threatening pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) have been reported for both children and adults. This can occur at any time during the use of valproic acid. If you experience signs of pancreatitis such as abdominal pain on the upper left side, back pain, loss of appetite, nausea, fever, chills, rapid heartbeat, or swollen abdomen contact your doctor immediately.
Sedation: Valproic acid may cause sedation, especially when combined with another sedating drug such as alcohol.
Seizures: Some people experience an increase in seizures or new types of seizures when taking valproic acid. If you experience a change in your seizures, contact your doctor as soon as possible.
Stopping the medication: Valproic acid should not be stopped suddenly, as this can cause seizures to increase in frequency and severity. If you need to stop taking Valproic (Valproic-acid), it should be reduced gradually. Talk to your doctor about the best way to stop Valproic (Valproic-acid).
Suicidal thoughts: There is a small risk that Valproic (Valproic-acid) may result in thoughts of suicide. If you experience these symptoms or any other behaviour change while taking Valproic (Valproic-acid), contact your doctor immediately. Family members or caregivers of people who are taking Valproic (Valproic-acid) should contact the person's doctor immediately if they notice unusual behaviour changes.
Pregnancy: There is an increased risk of serious birth defects for a child whose mother takes valproic acid during pregnancy. Valproic acid may cause a defect of the spine called Spina Bifida, cleft palate, heart defects, Autism, or slowed or reduced mental development. Women of child-bearing age must use effective birth control while taking valproic acid.
Before becoming pregnant, women with epilepsy should speak to their doctor about other options for seizure medications. If you become pregnant while taking Valproic (Valproic-acid), contact your doctor immediately.
People who need medications to prevent major seizures should not stop taking them. If it is necessary to stop taking Valproic (Valproic-acid), your doctor will advise you of the best way to reduce or change the medication.
Breast-feeding: Valproic (Valproic-acid) passes into breast milk. If you are a breast-feeding mother and are taking valproic acid it may affect your baby. Talk to your doctor about whether you should continue breast-feeding. As a general rule, women who are taking valproic acid are advised not to breast-feed.
Children: If valproic acid is given to children 2 years old or younger, it should be used with extreme caution and as a single medication. The benefits of seizure control should be weighed against the risk.
Seniors: People over the age of 65 may be more at risk of developing side effects from Valproic (Valproic-acid) and may require lower dosages.
