SODIUM VALPORATE

Question 1

Drug class

Answer 1

anti-convulsant

Question 2

How does it work? (2)

Answer 2

1. weak inhibitor of neuronal sodium channels

• this stabilises resting membrane potential
• reduces neuronal excitability

2. increases brain content of GABA
   - this is involved in regulation of neuronal excitability

Question 3

Indications (2)

Answer 3

1. epilepsy

2. bipolar

Question 4

Contra-indications (4)

Answer 4

1. women of child bearing age
2. pregnancy
   - fetal abnormalities
3. hepatic impairment
4. renal impairment

Question 5

Side effects (5)

Answer 5

1. GI upset
2. Neurological and psychiatric effects
3. Thrombocytopenia
4. raised liver enzymes
5. hypersensitivity reactions

Question 6

Interactions (5)

Answer 6

1. hepatic cytochrome P450 enzymes
   - inhibits
2. cytochrome P450 inducers

• conc reduced
• increases risk of seizures

3. cytochrome P450 inhibitors
   - increases adverse effects
   e. g. macrolides
4. aspirin
   - displaces it from it’s binding site
5. drugs that lower seizure threshold
   e. g. SSRIs and tricyclic antidepressants

Question 7

Elimination

Answer 7

1. urine