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Hyperammonemic encephalopathy induced by valproic acid.

Qiuyu Martin ZhuAmitosh K SinghHuai-En Rachel ChangSandeep A Konka
Published in: BMJ case reports (2024)
Valproate (VPA) is broad-spectrum antiepileptic drug. Several adverse reactions including hepatotoxicity, fetal risk and pancreatitis are well known and labelled as boxed warnings in the USA. One adverse reaction that is less well known but clinically significant for its severe morbidity is hyperammonemic encephalopathy. We present a case of woman with hyperammonemic encephalopathy following the initiation of VPA therapy; she had a favourable outcome with discontinuation of the drug and prompt treatment with lactulose and L-carnitine.
Keyphrases
  • early onset
  • drug induced
  • adverse drug
  • stem cells
  • combination therapy
  • replacement therapy