2001 suplement 1

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Volume 10, suplement 1

Review article

Valproic acid derivatives in t he treatment o f mental, and particularly – affective disorders

STANISŁAW PUŻYŃSKI1
1. III Klinika Psychiatryczna Instytutu Psychiatrii i Neurologii w Warszawie
Postępy Psychiatrii i Neurologii, 2001, 10, suplement 1 (13), 25-34
Keywords: valproic acid, mental disorders, affective diseases

Abstract

It follows from a review of the ample literature on the use of valproic acid derivatives in the treatment of mental disorders that valproic acid has in addition to its anticonvulsant action also a clear psychotropic effect. The latter can be effectively applied in the prevention of bipolar affective disorder, as we/l as in the treatment of manic syndromes. Valproic acid usefulness in other mental disorders (depression, anxiety disorders, dysphoric states) seems probable, but requires further study. Administration of valproates requires that contraindications should be strictly observed and the treatment should be monitored, with particular attention paid to junctions of the liver.

Address for correspondence:
Prof. Stanisław Pużyński,
Instytut Psychiatrii i Neurologii,
Al. Sobieskiego 1/9,
02-957 Warszawa