The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a new liquid form of a medicine called valproic acid. This medicine is used to treat epilepsy, specifically certain types of seizures known as complex partial seizures and absence seizures. It can be used by itself or added to other treatments for adults and for children who are 10 years of age and older. The approval is for an oral solution, which is a liquid you swallow. This is important because it provides an option for patients who have difficulty taking pills or who need their dose adjusted very carefully. It is a new formulation of a drug that doctors have used for many years. This approval means that doctors and patients now have a liquid choice for managing these seizure types. It's important to know that this medicine carries serious safety warnings. The FDA requires a prominent 'boxed warning' on the label about risks of severe liver damage and serious birth defects if taken during pregnancy. Because of these risks, its use is very carefully considered, especially for women who could become pregnant. If you or a loved one has epilepsy, this news means there is another formulation available. The most important step for any patient is to talk with their doctor. A doctor can explain if this new option is appropriate, considering an individual's specific health situation and the medicine's benefits and risks.
The FDA has approved a liquid form of an older seizure medicine called valproic acid.
Photo by Markus Kammermann / Unsplash
What this means for you:
A liquid form of a seizure medicine is now available, offering an option for those who can't swallow pills. More on Absence Seizures
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