Valproic acid could help in the fight against COVID-19: A case-control study

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Pharmacology
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Early evidence suggests Valproic acid (VPA) may possess antiviral properties.
• Investigating the impact of VPA on SARS-CoV-2 infection is crucial given the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the incidence and severity of SARS-CoV-2 infection in Valproic acid (VPA) users versus the general population.
• To evaluate the potential protective effect of VPA against COVID-19.

Main Methods:

• A case-control study nested within a cohort was conducted from March 1 to December 17, 2020.
• Confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infected patients on VPA were identified and compared to an unexposed general population.
• VPA regimen (all-time or not-all-time) and therapeutic range (ATR) levels were assessed.

Main Results:

• The incidence of SARS-CoV-2 infection was lower in VPA users compared to the general population (1.736%-1.910% vs. 2.201%).
• Patients with VPA levels within the therapeutic range (ATR) showed a >75% reduction in SARS-CoV-2 infection risk (OR 0.233-0.218).
• Hospital admission incidence for COVID-19 was also lower in VPA users (OR 0.543).

Conclusions:

• Valproic acid (VPA) use within the therapeutic range is associated with a significant reduction in SARS-CoV-2 infection incidence.
• A trend towards reduced COVID-19 admission risk was observed in patients on VPA therapy.
• These findings highlight the need for further investigation into VPA's antiviral potential for COVID-19 treatment and prevention.