Sodium valproate
Second-line option in status epilepticus: 40 mg/kg IV (max 3 g). Avoid in women who could become pregnant.
On this page
Dose
| Indication | Dose |
|---|---|
| Status epilepticus | 40 mg/kg IV over 10 minutes (max 3 g) |
| Maintenance | 500 mg twice daily, increasing to 1–2 g/day |
Cautions
- Highly teratogenic: avoid in women and girls who could become pregnant unless no alternative.
- Liver toxicity, pancreatitis, high ammonia.
- Meropenem greatly reduces valproate levels.
Frequently asked questions
Why is valproate avoided in young women?
It causes birth defects and developmental problems in babies exposed in pregnancy.
Used in these guides
Sources
Doses on this page are typical doses from the sources above. Always confirm with a current drug reference, the product leaflet and your hospital protocol, especially in children, pregnancy and kidney or liver disease.