Hyperammonemic Encephalopathy Resulting From Intravenous Valproate for Status Epilepticus
Abstract
The FDA approved vaiproate sodium injection (iv VPA) for seizure management in patients unable to receive oral VPA. Subsequent studies confirming the safety of rapid infusion of iv VPA led to investigations of its use for status epilepticus. Intravenous vaiproate has been suggested as an alternative to phenytoin and/or phenobarbital in patients with hypersensitivity to or at high risk for the sedative or vasoactive effects of these drugs, or for seizure types more likely to respond to vaiproate (e.g. absence).' Hyperammonemic encephalopathy is a well-recognized complication of oral valproate. This may be common during introduction of VPA, as one case series of 38 patients reported 8 patients acutely manifesting confusion, somnolence and elevated ammonia. We report 2 cases of acute encephalopathy with hyperammonemia following iv VPA for status epilepticus.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 21, 2004
- Accession Number
- ADA425267
Entities
People
- Atul Verma
- Karen C. Richards
- M. E. Newmark
- R. A. Hrachovy
Organizations
- Air Force Institute of Technology