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Intravenous loading of valproate for epilepsy
1Department of Neurology, Southern Illinois University, Springfield 62794-9637, USA.
Clinical Neuropharmacology
|April 15, 1999
Summary
Intravenous valproate effectively achieves rapid serum level increases in epilepsy patients needing acute loading. This method proved safe and efficient for managing seizure disorders requiring quick therapeutic drug concentrations.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Clinical Pharmacology
Background:
- Valproate is a broad-spectrum antiepileptic drug.
- Limited data exists on intravenous valproate for acute loading to rapidly increase serum levels.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of intravenous valproate loading doses in adults with epilepsy.
- To determine the feasibility of rapidly achieving therapeutic serum concentrations of valproate.
Main Methods:
- Intravenous valproate loading doses were administered to 20 adult epilepsy patients.
- Dosing was calculated based on body mass, desired serum level change, and volume of distribution.
- Infusion rates varied (20-50 mg/min), and postinfusion serum levels were monitored.
Main Results:
- A mean dose of 1420 +/- 440 mg (19.4 +/- 5.4 mg/kg) was administered.
- Infusions were well-tolerated with minimal side effects.
- The apparent volume of distribution was calculated at 0.22 +/- 0.04 L/kg.
Conclusions:
- Intravenous valproate is a viable option for acute loading in epilepsy.
- This administration route allows for quick and efficient achievement of target serum valproate levels.
- Further research can explore optimal dosing and infusion strategies.