The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a liquid oral form of the medicine valproic acid. This medicine is used to treat epilepsy, specifically for certain types of seizures called complex partial seizures and absence seizures. It can be used by itself or added to other treatments for patients 10 years of age and older. The approval is for a liquid version of a medicine that has been used for many years. This is important because it gives people who have difficulty swallowing pills or capsules a different option. It allows for more flexible dosing based on a person's weight. This approval makes an existing treatment available in a new form that might be easier for some patients to take. It is crucial to understand that this medicine carries serious risks, which are clearly stated in a highlighted warning on its label. These include the risk of severe liver problems and serious birth defects. Because of these risks, doctors will carefully consider if this medicine is the right choice for each patient, especially for women who could become pregnant. If you or a loved one has epilepsy, this news means there is another formulation of a known medicine available. The most important step is to talk with your doctor. They can explain if this specific liquid form might be suitable for your individual situation and answer any questions you have about its use and risks.
FDA approves a liquid form of an existing epilepsy medicine called valproic acid.
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What this means for you:
A liquid form of an existing epilepsy medicine is now available for people who have trouble swallowing pills. More on Absence Seizures
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