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Divalproex sodium therapy in elderly with dementia-related agitation
Crystal E Pratt1, Steven M Davis
1Campbell University School of Pharmacy, Buies Creek, NC, USA.
Objective:
To review available literature regarding the use of divalproex sodium in the treatment of agitation in elderly patients with dementia.
Data Sources:
Clinical trials and review articles were identified by MEDLINE search (1966 - March 2002).
Data Synthesis:
The literature provides information regarding the potential benefits and tolerability of divalproex sodium in the treatment of dementia-related agitation. This article analyzes 7 studies to better understand the role of divalproex sodium in the treatment of dementia.
Conclusions:
Divalproex sodium may offer a slight benefit to elderly patients suffering from dementia-related agitation. Until better-controlled trials demonstrate statistical significance and comparisons with established treatments are performed, practitioners should use divalproex sodium cautiously.