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Valproic acid blood test: therapeutic drug monitoring

The valproic acid test monitors blood levels of this anticonvulsant and mood stabilizer, as prescribed by your doctor. As part of comprehensive health monitoring, this test helps ensure medication levels remain effective while minimizing the risk of side effects.

Doctor's Assessment Included

When is this value abnormal?

Decision limits per result, in mg/l
Result Value (mg/l)
Subtherapeutic < 50
Therapeutic 50–100
Above therapeutic range ≥ 100

Bereik voor epilepsie; als stemmingsstabilisator 60–80 mg/l (onderhoud) tot 80–120 mg/l (acute fase). Toxisch: > 120 mg/l.

Source: UMC Utrecht

Reference ranges may vary between laboratories. When you order a test, a BIG-registered doctor assesses your personal results in context. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.

What It Measures

This test measures the blood concentration of valproic acid, as prescribed by your doctor. Monitoring helps your healthcare provider assess whether your current dose is producing levels within the desired therapeutic range.

Why It Matters

Maintaining valproic acid within the therapeutic range is important for effective seizure control or mood stabilization. Levels outside this range may be associated with reduced effectiveness or an increased risk of side effects, including liver-related complications.

When to Test

Testing is recommended when starting valproic acid therapy, after dose adjustments, during pregnancy planning, or when symptoms suggest subtherapeutic or toxic levels. Your healthcare provider will advise on the appropriate monitoring frequency.

Symptoms

Low Levels

Low valproic acid levels may indicate subtherapeutic dosing, which can be associated with breakthrough seizures or inadequate mood stabilization. Consult your healthcare professional for interpretation of results.

High Levels

High valproic acid levels may indicate a risk of toxicity, which can be associated with nausea, vomiting, tremor, drowsiness, and in serious cases, liver damage or pancreatitis. Contact your healthcare provider promptly if you experience these symptoms.

Lifestyle Tips

Take valproic acid exactly as prescribed by your doctor and do not adjust your dose without medical guidance. Attend all scheduled blood monitoring appointments, including liver function tests. Inform your doctor if you are planning pregnancy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my doctor also check liver function with valproic acid?
Valproic acid can occasionally affect liver function, especially in the early months of treatment. Regular liver function monitoring helps detect any issues early, allowing your healthcare provider to take appropriate action.
Can valproic acid interact with other medications?
Yes, valproic acid can interact with many medications, including other anticonvulsants, aspirin, and certain antibiotics. Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you are taking.
Is valproic acid safe during pregnancy?
Valproic acid is associated with significant risks during pregnancy and is generally avoided when possible. If you are of childbearing age, discuss contraception and pregnancy planning with your healthcare provider.

Tests with related values

These panels measure values from the same category as this marker.

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SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin) TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase) LDL Cholesterol Cortisol DHEA-S Estradiol (E2) Free Testosterone FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) LH (Luteinizing Hormone) Total Testosterone Bicarbonate Calcium Chloride Ferritin Iron (Serum) Magnesium Potassium Sodium Transferrin CRP (C-Reactive Protein) Homocysteine Glucose (Fasting) HbA1c (Glycated Hemoglobin) ApoB (Apolipoprotein B) HDL Cholesterol Omega-3 Index Total Cholesterol Albumin HOMA-IR ALP (Alkaline Phosphatase) AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase) Bilirubin (Total) Total Protein Urea (BUN) Creatinine Vitamin D (25-OH) eGFR (Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate) Insulin (Fasting) Leukocyte Differential Transferrin Saturation Lipoprotein(a) Triglycerides Basic Blood Count
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SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin) TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase) LDL Cholesterol GGT (Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase) Cortisol DHEA-S Estradiol (E2) Free Testosterone Total Testosterone Folate (Folic Acid) Vitamin B12 Calcium Ferritin Iron (Serum) Magnesium Magnesium (Intracellular) Potassium Progesterone Sodium Transferrin CRP (C-Reactive Protein) Glucose (Fasting) HbA1c (Glycated Hemoglobin) ApoB (Apolipoprotein B) HDL Cholesterol Total Cholesterol Albumin AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase) Vitamin D (25-OH) Insulin (Fasting) Leukocyte Differential Creatine Kinase (CK) Transferrin Saturation Triglycerides Basic Blood Count
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