Pancreatitis Associated With Valproic Acid Therapy for Epilepsy

Valproic acid was used to treat various types of seizures, including absence, myoclonic, and grand mal seizures, and as an adjunct for mixed seizures. While generally well tolerated, it was associated with side effects such as vomiting, rashes, hair loss, leukopenia, and thrombocytopenia. Notably, seven patients developed hepatitis, resulting in six fatalities. Additionally, a case was reported where a child developed pancreatitis directly linked to valproic acid therapy.