DRUG

PRESENTATION
Inj. Sodium Valporate

By: Chinmayi
Roll No. 8
2nd year
INTRODUCTION
 Injection sodium valproate is a form of the medication sodium valproate that is administered
intravenously.
 It belongs to the class of medications known as anticonvulsants or antiepileptic drugs.
 These drugs are primarily used to treat seizures and epilepsy by stabilizing abnormal electrical
activity in the brain.
 It’s often used in emergency situations to quickly control seizures or in cases where oral
administration is not possible.
TRADE NAME
The trade name of sodium valproate can vary
depending on the manufacturer and the country,
but some common trade names include Depakote,
Epilim, and Depakine.

In our hospital, its trade name is NEOPRATE.

CHEMICAL NAME
The chemical name of sodium valproate is sodium 2-
propylpentanoate.
ROUTE AND DOSAGE
Sodium valproate is typically administered
orally, meaning it is taken by mouth in the
form of tablets, capsules, or liquid solution
OR intravenously.
Tablets: 200mg, 500mg
Liquid Solution: 200mg/5mL
Intravenous Infusion: 500mg/5mL
MECHANISM OF ACTION
 Sodium valproate primarily works by increasing the levels of a neurotransmitter called
gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter that
helps to reduce the activity of nerve cells in the brain, thereby exerting a calming effect.
 Additionally, sodium valproate may also modulate the activity of voltage-gated sodium
channels and T-type calcium channels, which are involved in the generation and propagation
of electrical signals in the brain.
 qOverall, the increased GABA levels and modulation of ion channels lead to the stabilization
of abnormal electrical activity in the brain, making sodium valproate effective in the treatment
of conditions such as epilepsy and bipolar disorder.
INDICATIONS
 Acute treatment of seizures or status epilepticus (prolonged seizures) when oral administration
is not feasible or when rapid onset of action is required.
 Management of acute manic episodes in bipolar disorder when immediate intervention is
needed and oral medication cannot be used.
 Prevention of migraine headaches in patients who cannot tolerate oral medications or who
require rapid relief from migraine symptoms.
 Stabilize mood and prevent manic episodes in individuals with bipolar disorder.
 Migraine prophylaxis: Sodium valproate may be prescribed to reduce the frequency and
severity of migraine headaches in some patients.
 Other off-label uses: Sodium valproate may also be used off-label for conditions such as
neuropathic pain, behavioral disorders, and certain psychiatric conditions.
 CONTRAINDICATIONS
 Hypersensitivity: Individuals who have a known hypersensitivity or allergy to sodium valproate or
any of its components.
 Hepatic dysfunction: It is metabolized in the liver, so it may be contraindicated in patients with
severe hepatic impairment or active liver disease.
 Urea cycle disorders: It should be avoided in patients with urea cycle disorders due to the risk of
hyperammonemia, which can be life-threatening.
 Mitochondrial disorders: It may exacerbate symptoms in patients with mitochondrial disorders,
such as mitochondrial myopathy, encephalopathy, lactic acidosis, and stroke-like episodes (MELAS
syndrome).
 Pregnancy: It is associated with an increased risk of birth defects and developmental delays when
used during pregnancy, particularly when used in high doses or during the first trimester. Therefore,
it is generally contraindicated in pregnant women unless the potential benefits outweigh the risks.
 Porphyria: It may exacerbate symptoms of porphyria, a group of rare disorders that affect the
nervous system or skin.
SIDE EFFECTS
1. Nausea and Vomiting
2. Drowsiness or Sedation
3. Headache
4. Injection Site Reactions
5. Dizziness
6. Tremor
7. Liver Function Abnormalities
8. Allergic Reactions
9. Mood Swings
10. Weight Gain
11. Hair Loss
NURSING RESPONSIBILITIES
 Patient assessment: Conduct a thorough assessment of the patient’s medical history, current
condition, allergies, and medication regimen to ensure sodium valproate is appropriate for
them.
 Monitoring: Monitor vital signs, including blood pressure, heart rate, and respiratory rate,
before and after administering the injection. Monitor for any signs of adverse reactions, such
as allergic reactions, changes in mental status, or injection site reactions.
 Administration technique: Administer the injection according to the manufacturer’s
instructions and institutional protocols. Ensure proper needle size, injection site, and technique
to minimize discomfort and risk of complications.
 Laboratory monitoring: Monitor laboratory parameters as indicated, such as liver function
tests, complete blood count, and serum drug levels, to assess for potential adverse effects or
therapeutic efficacy.
NURSING RESPONSIBILITIES
 Patient education: Provide thorough education to the patient and their caregivers about the
purpose of the injection, potential side effects, and any necessary precautions. Emphasize the
importance of adherence to the prescribed treatment regimen and follow-up appointments.
 Documentation: Accurately document the administration of sodium valproate injection,
including the dose, route, time, site of injection, and any observed adverse reactions or patient
responses.
 Adverse event management: Be prepared to manage any adverse events that may occur
following administration of the injection. This may include administering additional
medications, providing supportive care, or contacting the healthcare provider for further
guidance.
 Follow-up: Schedule follow-up appointments as needed to monitor the patient’s response to
treatment, assess for any adverse effects, and adjust the treatment plan as necessary.
BIBLIOGRAPHY
McKenna’s Drug Handbook for Nursing and Midwifery
 Brunner and Suddharth’s Textbook of Medical Surgical Nursing Vol-2
 https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/sodium-valproate/#:~:text=However%2C%20sodium%20valpr
oate%20is%20thought,how%20sodium%20valproate%20prevents%20migraine
.
 https://go.drugbank.com/drugs/DB00313
 https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/sodium-valproate