Sodium Valproate in the Treatment of Epilepsy
June 1974
in “
BMJ
”
Studysummary This study found that sodium valproate effectively stopped or reduced seizures in patients with various types of epilepsy, with best results in absence and myoclonic seizures, though it caused temporary hair loss in some cases.
Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer
The study from 1974 investigated the use of sodium valproate in 63 patients with various types of epilepsy, particularly those who did not respond to other anticonvulsants. The treatment was effective, with 43% of patients experiencing a complete cessation of seizures and 22% showing a reduction in attacks by more than 50%. The best outcomes were observed in patients with absences and myoclonic epilepsies, while there was little improvement in temporal lobe epilepsy. Sodium valproate did not cause unwanted effects when used alone but enhanced the effects of other anticonvulsants. An unusual side effect was temporary hair loss. Additionally, some patients became more alert, and improvements were noted in school performance and the management of subnormal patients.
