Efficacy and tolerability of injectable sodium valproate in patients with mania

Background: Sodium valproate is among the newer mood stabilizers and is also an anticonvulsant. Aim To assess the effect of intravenous sodium valproate in patients with acute manic episodes of bipolar disorder. Methods: A 1-week open trial was conducted in the year 2004-2005 at the emergency ward of the Psychiatric Centre, SMS Medical College, Jaipur, in which 30 patients participated. Conclusion: Substantial improvement was seen. No major side-effects were noted except marginal elevation of the SGOT and SGPT. The findings suggest that injectable sodium valproate is a safe and effective mood stabilizer for patients with mania.