Valproate (sodium valproate)

Valproate is a very effective epilepsy medicine and is also used for bipolar disorder. It carries a serious risk to unborn babies, so strict safety rules apply.

Type of medicine

Anticonvulsant and mood stabiliser

Also known as

Epilim, Episenta, Epival, Depakote (valproic acid)

Comes as

tablets, modified-release tablets, granules, liquid, injection

How you get it

Started by a specialist, then sometimes prescribed by a GP

What it is used for

Epilepsy, including generalised and focal seizures
Mania in bipolar disorder (valproic acid)

Read our guides:

Off-label uses

Doctors sometimes prescribe a medicine for a condition it is not officially licensed for. This is called off-label use. It is legal and common when there is good evidence it helps, and your doctor should explain why they are suggesting it.

Preventing migraine
Preventing bipolar episodes long term

How it works

Valproate increases the level of GABA, a calming chemical messenger in the brain, and blocks some channels on nerve cells. This calms overactive brain activity.

Side effects

Like all medicines, Valproate (sodium valproate) can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. Many are mild and ease after the first few weeks.

Common side effects

feeling sick
weight gain
hair thinning or changes in hair
shaking
stomach pain
feeling sleepy

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if these bother you or do not go away.

Serious side effects

These are rare. Call 111 or contact your doctor straight away if you get:

yellowing of the skin or eyes, being sick, feeling very unwell or more seizures, which can be signs of liver damage
severe stomach pain, which can be a sign of an inflamed pancreas
unusual bruising or bleeding
confusion or drowsiness
thoughts of harming yourself

Call 999 if you have signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as swelling of your lips, mouth, throat or tongue, or trouble breathing.

You can report any side effect to the Yellow Card scheme, run by the medicines regulator.

Stopping and withdrawal

Important safety information

Valproate can seriously harm an unborn baby, causing birth defects and problems with learning and development. Women and girls who could get pregnant must be on the Pregnancy Prevention Programme and use highly effective contraception.
Men starting valproate are now usually reviewed by two specialists, because of a possible risk to children they father.
You need regular blood tests in the first few months.

Questions about your medicine?

A pharmacist can answer questions about your medicines for free, without an appointment. You can also ask your GP for a medication review. Check if you can get free prescriptions.