This document discusses the drug valproic acid, including its indications for bipolar disorder, seizures, and other conditions. It acts on GABA receptors to reduce neuronal excitability. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, sedation, ataxia, tremors, weight gain, and hair loss. Nurses should advise patients to take it with food to reduce GI irritation and get regular blood monitoring.

1. Presented by:
Mr. P. Vethadhas M.Sc (N),
Assistant Professor,
Dept.of Mental Health Nursing.

3. Indications
Acute mania, prophylactic treatment of bipolar I disorder,
rapid cycling bipolar disorder
Schizoaffective disorder
Seizures
Other disorders like bulimia nervosa, obsessive compulsive
disorder, agitation and PTSD.

4. Dosage
The usual dose is 15 mg/kg/ day with a maximum of 60
mg/kg/ day orally.

5. Mechanism of Action
The drug acts on gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) an
inhibitory amino acid neurotransmitter. GABA receptor
activation serves to reduce neuronal excitability,

6. Side Effects
Nausea
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Sedation
Ataxia
Dysarthria

7. Side Effects
Tremor
Weight gain
Loss of hair
Thrombocytopenia
Platelet dysfunction

8. Nurse's Responsibilities
• Explain to the patient to take the drug immediately after food
to reduce GI irritation.
• Advise to come for regular follow-up and periodic
examination of blood count, hepatic function and thyroid
function. Therapeutic serum level of valproic acid is 50-100
micrograms/ml.