Valproic acid

Brand Name: Depakene
Drug Class: Opportunistic Infection and Other Drugs

Valproic acid, also known as Depakene, is a type of medicine normally used to treat seizures and other nervous system problems. Valproic acid works against HIV by releasing the virus from resting cells so other anti-HIV medicines can attack it.

HIV/AIDS-Related Uses
Valproic acid is being studied for the treatment of HIV infection and is not yet approved by the FDA for HIV use outside of clinical trials. This medicine does not cure or prevent HIV infection or AIDS and does not reduce the risk of passing the virus to other people.

Dosage Form/Administration
Valproic acid comes in oral capsule and syrup forms and is taken by mouth. Valproate sodium is available as a syrup and as an intrevenous injection.

Recommended Daily Dose
Valproic acid doses of 500 to 750 mg twice daily have been tested for treatment of patients with HIV infection.

Contraindications
Individuals should tell a doctor about any medical problems before taking this medicine. Valproic acid should not be used in patients with liver disease.

Possible Side Effects
Along with its desired effects, valproic acid can cause some unwanted effects. Serious side effects of this medicine include liver failure, possibly leading to death. Symptoms of liver problems include weakness, tiredness, facial swelling, vomiting, and other flu-like symptoms. Individuals should tell a doctor if they have any of these side effects.

Other side effects may not be serious and may lessen or disappear with continued use of the medicine. Less serious side effects of this medicine include headache, nausea, diarrhea, stomach pain, dizziness, sleepiness, and tremor. Individuals should tell a doctor if these side effects continue or are bothersome.

Drug and Food Interactions
A doctor should be notified of any other medications being taken, including prescription, nonprescription (over-the-counter), or herbal medications.

Clinical Trials
For information on clinical trials that involve Valproic acid, visit the ClinicalTrials.gov web site at http://www.clinicaltrials.gov. In the Search box, enter: Valproic acid AND HIV Infections.

Manufacturer Information

Valproic acid
Abbott Laboratories
One Hundred Abbott Park Rd
Abbott Park, IL 60064-3500
(800) 633-9110

For More Information
Contact your doctor or an AIDSinfo Health Information Specialist:

• Via Phone: 1-800-448-0440 Monday - Friday, 12:00 p.m. (Noon) - 5:00 p.m. ET
• Via Live Help: http://aidsinfo.nih.gov/live_help Monday - Friday, 12:00 p.m. (Noon) - 4:00 p.m. ET