Multiorgan system failure caused by valproic acid toxicity

Am J Emerg Med. 1997 Sep;15(5):504-6. doi: 10.1016/s0735-6757(97)90195-9.

Abstract

Valproic acid is an effective antiseizure medication that is also used for other indications such as migraine prophylaxis. It is known to sometimes cause hepatic injury, both a mild dose-related form and an idiosyncratic, fulminant, usually fatal type. A case is reported of multiorgan failure caused by valproic acid toxicity in an adult who survived. Such multisystem toxicity has not been previously reported.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Acute Kidney Injury / chemically induced
  • Anticonvulsants / poisoning*
  • Anticonvulsants / therapeutic use
  • Emergencies
  • Humans
  • Liver Failure / chemically induced
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Migraine Disorders / drug therapy
  • Multiple Organ Failure / chemically induced*
  • Pancreatitis / chemically induced
  • Rhabdomyolysis / chemically induced
  • Valproic Acid / poisoning*
  • Valproic Acid / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Anticonvulsants
  • Valproic Acid