Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 6, 2026

Postconditioning with Lactate-enriched Blood for Cardioprotection in ST-segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction
Published on: May 28, 2019
Two cases of valproic acid poisoning treated with L-carnitine
1Hong Kong Poison Information Centre, Kwun Tong, Hong Kong. chanyc3@ha.org.hk
Abstract:
Two cases of acute valproic acid poisoning with central nervous system depression and raised ammonia level without hepatotoxicity were reported. They were treated successfully with the use of the antidotes: L-carnitine and other supportive measures. Clinical manifestation and progress was described, and discussion is focused on the use of L-carnitine in valproic acid-induced hyperammonemia, from its mechanism to the clinical experiences in the literature. Based on the favorable response of our two cases and the literature review, we recommend the administration of intravenous L-carnitine in patients of valproic acid overdose with hyperammonemia or valproic acid-induced hyperammonemic encephalopathy and hepatotoxicity at a dose of 50 mg/kg every 8 h for the first initial 24 h with further individual assessment.
Related Concept Videos
Pharmaceutical Poisoning: Treatment Strategies
Anticholinesterase Agents: Poisoning and Treatment
Irreversible agents form a strong bond with the cholinesterase enzyme, making it inactive. The breakdown of the phosphorylated enzyme is slower than the...
Drug Toxicity: Risk factors
Pharmaceutical Poisoning: Potential Scenarios
Prevention of Further Absorption of Poison
Drug Toxicity: Overview

