Meropenem as an antidote for intentional valproic acid overdose

Valproic acid (VPA) is a broad-spectrum antiepileptic drug indicated for monotherapy and adjunctive therapy of seizures, and complex manic episodes associated with bipolar disorder [1]. While uncommon due to monitoring, VPA can cause toxicity at supratherapeutic levels [1, 2]. Traditional treatment for VPA toxicity is primarily supportive care, however activated charcoal, l-carnitine, and hemodialysis have been successful in removing free VPA [2]. An interaction between carbapenem antibiotics and VPA is well-established and listed in respective package inserts as a combination to be avoided due to decreased VPA efficacy [1, 3].

Source: The American Journal of Emergency Medicine - January 7, 2020 Category: Emergency Medicine Authors: Caitlin Thomas, James Priano, Tracey L. Smith Tags: Case Report Source Type: research