Sodium Valproate (Na VPa) Monotherapy in Childhood Epilepsy

    December 1982 in “ PubMed ”
    Olivier Dulac, D Steru, Enrique Rey, M Arthuis
    TLDR Sodium valproate effectively reduces seizures in children with epilepsy, especially in primary generalized cases.
    In a study involving 80 epileptic children treated with sodium valproate monotherapy for an average of 15 months, seizures stopped in 50% and decreased in 27.5% of cases. The treatment was especially effective for primary generalized epilepsies, with 77% experiencing cessation and 18% reduction in seizures. Behavioral improvements were noted in 10 of 11 cases when transitioning from multiple treatments to valproate monotherapy. Common side effects included drowsiness, insomnia, hair loss, gastrointestinal issues, and weight gain. The study recommended a mean daily dose of 20-30 mg/kg based on the child's age.
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