Valproic Acid Complications
Use of valproic acid during pregnancy is associated with a 1–2% risk of neural tube defect (NTD) 1).
Valproic acid (VPA) is a commonly used drug for epilepsy, psychiatric disorders and migraine and is frequently used in neurosurgical intensive care units. Though most of its side-effects are mild and transient, certain idiosyncratic side-effects have been attributed to VPA. Valproate induced hyperammonemia (VIH) is one such side-effect 2)
Valproate encephalopathy 3).
Interstitial pneumonitis 4).
A considerable number of patients using VPA were diagnosed with coagulopathy, especially platelet function disorder. Further prospective studies are needed to confirm the need for comprehensive laboratory testing before elective high-risk surgery in these patients 5).