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Hepatotoxic effects in a child receiving valproate and carnitine
J V Murphy1, R V Groover, C Hodge
1Neurology Section, Children's Mercy Hospital, Kansas City, Missouri 64108.
The Journal of Pediatrics
|August 1, 1993
Summary
L-Carnitine supplementation may not prevent fatal liver damage from valproic acid. This study details a child
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Pharmacology
- Pediatric Medicine
Background:
- Valproic acid is a common antiepileptic drug.
- Valproic acid is associated with severe hepatotoxicity.
- L-Carnitine supplementation is a recommended preventative measure.
Observation:
- A child receiving valproic acid was also given L-Carnitine supplementation.
- The child developed fatal hepatotoxic effects.
Findings:
- Despite L-Carnitine supplementation, valproic acid-induced hepatotoxicity was fatal.
- This case challenges the efficacy of L-Carnitine in preventing severe valproate toxicity.
Implications:
- Clinical guidelines for valproic acid use may need re-evaluation.
- Further research is needed to understand mechanisms of valproate hepatotoxicity.
- Alternative or adjunctive therapies for valproic acid toxicity should be explored.