Skip to main content

Valproic Acid

Depakene, Depakote(divalproex)

Calculate dosage
Sourced from primary literature. Awaiting credentialed clinical reviewer — our editorial process.

Drug Class

Neurological

Routes

POIV

Indications

Mechanism of Action

Increases GABA levels by inhibiting GABA transaminase and blocking voltage-gated sodium channels. Broad-spectrum anticonvulsant.

Side effects & warnings

Rapidly metabolized in dogs (very short half-life, impractical for chronic use). Hepatotoxic. Teratogenic. May cause thrombocytopenia. Limited use in veterinary medicine.

Species with Valproic Acid dosing data (1 dose rule)

Evidence levels across 1 dose rule

Weak×1

Each ExoticRx dose rule is graded by the strength of its primary evidence — see the editorial process.

Backed by a published primary source

  • · Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook, 9th Ed

Sample dosing (1 of 1 cited rule)

Free-tier preview — dog and cat dosing. Pro and Student unlock all 1 species including reptiles, birds, pocket pets, livestock, and equine.

SpeciesRouteDoseFrequencyEvidenceSource
Dog (Domestic)PO25–60 mg/kgq8hWeakPlumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook, 9th Ed

Upgrade for Full Details

Upgrade to Pro or Student to access full drug details including mechanism of action, warnings, dose ranges, and frequency.

View Plans