The Price | Valproic acid

The Price

Valproic acid is a drug for the long-term therapy of seizure disorders or bipolar disorder, the dosage is individual. The usual maintenance dose in the therapy of epilepsy valproate is approximately between 1200 and 2000 mg in adolescents and adults. Valproic acid is available on the market in various package sizes from different manufacturers. For example, 200 tablets of 150 mg valproate cost between 20 and 30 €, 200 tablets of 500 mg cost between 35 and 50 €.

Alternatives to valproic acid?

Valproic acid is the first choice in the treatment of various forms of epilepsy. The therapy is ordered and followed up by a specialist. Side effects or contraindications may cause a change to another drug.

Alternatives to valproic acid are other antiepileptic drugs, especially carbamazepine and its derivatives are on the short list depending on the indication. There are also phenytoin and phenobarbital. Ethosuximide has a special place in the therapy of infantile absence epilepsy.

The newer anticonvulsants include gabapentin, lamotrigine, tiagabine, topiramate and vigabatrin. Many are suitable in combination therapy, lamotrigine for example is also used in monotherapy. Benzodiazepines such as diazepam and lorazepam are used in acute seizures or in the so-called status epilepticus. If the indication for valproic acid is bipolar disorder, lithium is usually used as a so-called “phase stabilizer”, as are other antiepileptic drugs such as lamotrigine or carbamazepine. You can find more information on this topic at How can cramps be controlled?

Valproic acid and alcohol – is it compatible?

The consumption of alcohol can increase the risk of liver damage by taking valproic acid. In general, moderate consumption of alcohol does not increase the frequency of seizures. It becomes problematic, however, when lack of sleep and irregular intake of medication are the result of alcohol consumption. Patients with a seizure disorder should enjoy alcohol responsibly and in moderation and at best avoid drinking it.

Is it possible to take it during pregnancy and lactation?

Taking valproic acid can lead to serious birth defects in the child in case of unplanned pregnancy. Careful contraception should therefore be taken when taking the antiepileptic at childbearing age. Women should consult their doctor about methods of contraception. However, the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives, the “pill”, is not reduced by taking valproic acid.