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Updated: Feb 11, 2026

Ex Vivo Expansion of Hematopoietic Stem Cells from Human Umbilical Cord Blood-derived CD34+ Cells Using Valproic Acid
Published on: April 11, 2019
Intentional use of carbapenem antibiotics for valproic acid toxicity: A case report
M A Khobrani1,2, S W Dudley3, Y C Huckleberry4
1Department of Pharmacy Practice & Science, College of Pharmacy, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA.
What Is Known And Objective:
The interaction between valproic acid (VPA) and carbapenem antibiotics is well described with previous reports suggesting a reduction in VPA half-life between 47% and 90%. As described in this case, this interaction might be beneficial in the setting of toxic VPA ingestion.
Case Description:
An intubated, unresponsive patient arrived via emergency medical services after toxic VPA ingestion. Meropenem was prescribed for a suspected pneumonia and to take advantage of the VPA interaction. We observed a 56% decline in half-life with short-term meropenem dosing and an improvement in mental status shortly after administration.
What Is New And Conclusion:
Our findings suggest a potential role for short-term carbapenem therapy for VPA overdose.
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