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Valproic acid-induced abnormal behavior
Nanjangud Chandrashekar Nagalakshmi1, Madhan Ramesh, Gurumurthy Parthasarathi
1Department of Pharmacy Practice, J.S.S. College of Pharmacy, Mysore, India.
Indian Journal of Psychiatry
|February 23, 2010
Summary
Valproic acid, used for epilepsy, can rarely cause abnormal behavior in patients. Discontinuing this medication led to the patient's full recovery, highlighting the need for vigilance regarding its behavioral side effects.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Valproic acid is a common antiepileptic drug.
- Behavioral disturbances are a rare but possible side effect.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a case of valproic acid-induced behavioral disturbances.
- To emphasize the importance of monitoring for adverse behavioral effects.
Main Methods:
- A case study of a 12-year-old female with epilepsy.
- Observation of behavioral changes during valproic acid treatment.
- Discontinuation of valproic acid and subsequent recovery.
Main Results:
- The patient developed abnormal behavior on valproic acid.
- Behavioral disturbances resolved after valproic acid withdrawal.
- Causality was assessed as 'possible' for valproic acid.
Conclusions:
- Behavioral disturbances associated with valproic acid are rare and reversible.
- Vigilance for abnormal behavioral effects is crucial in patients on valproic acid.
- Carbamazepine was used as an alternative antiepileptic medication.
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