TLDR Sodium valproate improved epilepsy control but often caused weight gain in children.
The study conducted a retrospective analysis of 100 children with epilepsy treated with sodium valproate, focusing on weight changes. It found that fit control improved in 77 children, particularly those with generalized epilepsy. While severe side effects like acute liver disease and pancreatitis were not observed, milder side effects were common. Increased weight gain was the most frequent, affecting 44 children. Other side effects included transient gastrointestinal disturbances (20 children), lassitude (9), transient hair loss (6), transient enuresis (7), and aggressive behavior (4).
73 citations
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January 1980 in “Annals of Neurology” Valproic acid can cause serious side effects, including pancreatitis and even death.
July 2020 in “Scholars journal of applied medical sciences” Sodium valproate caused vomiting, hair loss, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, weight gain, and anemia in young children with epilepsy.
May 2021 in “American journal of medical sciences and medicine” Sodium valproate caused vomiting in 20% of children under 2 years old, with other side effects like hair loss and loss of appetite also noted.
13 citations
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October 2010 in “Seizure” Extended-release valproate effectively reduced seizures and improved quality of life in epilepsy patients over 6 months, with some side effects.
11 citations
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January 2016 in “Bipolar Disorder” Valproate is a mood stabilizer for bipolar disorder but has side effects and risks, especially during pregnancy.
1 citations
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March 2023 in “Nutrients” The conclusion is that obesity should be managed with a slow, balanced approach to diet and exercise, with medication and surgery as additional options, and education and access to care are important.