Valproic acid for children below 2 years of age with epilepsy

Neurosciences (Riyadh). 2021 Oct;26(4):357-365. doi: 10.17712/nsj.2021.4.20210075.

Abstract

Objectives: To evaluate the efficacy of valproic acid (VPA) in a cohort of children below 2 years of age. We also aim to review the characteristics of such patients and the role and safety of VPA for this age group.

Methods: A retrospective chart review conducted at King Abdulaziz University Hospital, Jeddah, Kingdome of Saudi Arabia, for children below 2 years of age diagnosed with epilepsy and treated with valproic acid from January 2016 to January 2020.

Results: The cohort for this study includes 50 children below the age of 2 years (25 males, 25 females). Aged 3 months to 23 months at commencing valproic acid. The mean age of seizure onset was 9 months and the mean age of starting valproic acid was 16 months. Thirty-two patients (64%) had more than 50% seizure improvement after valproic acid. Eleven patients (22%) were seizure-free. No statistical significance abnormalities in blood count indices and ammonia were seen during the treatment period. Two patients had dose-related lethargy that improved after decreasing their dosage. Asymptomatic mild elevation in glutamate dehydrogenase was noticed in 18% of patients.

Conclusion: Using valproic acid in infants and children below the age of 2 years can be considered as a safe and effective treatment option for epilepsy in this age group.

MeSH terms

  • Anticonvulsants / adverse effects
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Epilepsy* / drug therapy
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Male
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Seizures / drug therapy
  • Valproic Acid* / adverse effects

Substances

  • Anticonvulsants
  • Valproic Acid