Valproic acid (VPA, valproate), is an acidic chemical compound , has found clinical use as an anti
convulsant and mood stabilising drug, primarily in the treatment of epilepsy, bipolar disorder and prevention
of migraine. Hyperammonemia is an idiosyncratic side effect in patients on valproate. Serum ammonemia
levels were estimated in 20 patients with bipolar affective disorder who were on valproate for atleast 6
months and presented with drowsiness. The results showed that most of the patients were males, with
nicotine dependence & above 40yrs. Hyperammonemia could be due to chronic use of valproate
Key words: Valproate, bipolar affective disorder, Serum ammonia
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