Uses
Magnesium Valproate is an anticonvulsant agent and the effects it exerts are the result of valproic acid and magnesium acting in a complementary way. Magnesium valproate is effective as monotherapy in patients with newly diagnosed or previously treated partial or generalised epilepsy.
Trade name
Logical (Armstrong)
Safety Profile
Moderately toxic by
ingestion. Danger: A spontaneously
combustible solid. When heated to
decomposition it emits toxic vapors of
magnesium.
Synthesis
Diethyl malonate is alkylated with 1-bromopropane and then hydrolyzed and decarboxylated to afford Magnesium valproate.
Description
Valproic acid and its salt Magnesium Valproate is major antiepileptic drugs for the treatment of absence, myoclonic, and generalized tonic – clonic seizures and also may be effective against complex partial seizures. The most cited mechanisms are the increase in GABA function and the blockade of voltage-dependent Na+-channels. The most common side effects are gastrointestinal disturbances and sedation. The most serious adverse effect is liver damage, although this is rare. Teratogenic effects, predominantly spina bifida, are reported frequently.
