Sodium valproate, also known as valproic acid, is a fatty acid derivative and anticonvulsant first synthesized in 1881-1882 from an analogue derived from the Valerian herb; however, its mechanism of action is not fully elucidated (yet). Traditionally, researchers and clinicians consider it to be an anticonvulsant due to its effects in the brain: it blocks voltage-gated sodium channels and potentiates gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) activity. Over the past centuries, investigations show valproate may also have neuroprotective, anti-manic, and anti-migraine effects. It is a compound of interest in the field of oncology for its anti-proliferative effects and has undergone some clinical trials. Currently, valproate is indicated for use as a monotherapy or adjunct medication in seizure management, for migraine prophylaxis, and for mitigation of acute mania associated with bipolar disorder. Off-label, clinicians may use valproate to manage bipolar disorder or for emergency treatment of status epilepticus. Valproate can be administered orally, in which case it undergoes hepatic first-pass metabolism to enter the bloodstream ___________________ https://go.drugbank.com/drugs/DB00313

Valproic Acid i.e. Sodium Valproate (New: Drug Action) References