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Acute valproic acid overdose: enhance elimination with multiple-doses activated charcoal
Suda Vannaprasaht1, Somsak Tiamkao, Dhavee Sirivongs
1Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand.
Summary
Multiple dose activated charcoal (MDAC) effectively enhances valproic acid (VA) elimination in acute overdose cases. This treatment significantly reduced the drug
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Pharmacokinetics
- Emergency Medicine
Background:
- Multiple dose activated charcoal (MDAC) is a common treatment for acute poisonings.
- Its efficacy in valproic acid (VA) overdose remains debated.
Observation:
- A case of acute valproic acid overdose is presented.
- The patient received multiple dose activated charcoal treatment.
Findings:
- MDAC administration reduced the half-life of valproic acid from 12 to 8 hours.
- VA elimination was enhanced approximately fourfold compared to no treatment.
Implications:
- MDAC can be a beneficial treatment for acute valproic acid intoxication.
- Consideration of MDAC in managing VA overdose is warranted.
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