Successful Treatment of Valproic Acid Intoxication with Hemodialysis and L-Carnitine

Valproic acid (VPA) is a conventional antiepileptic drug and, in parallel to its widespread prescription, it has been used in many cases of suicide attempts. VPA intoxication may cause electrolyte disturbances, hepatotoxicity, pancreatitis, bone marrow suppression, and brain edema. However, there is no specific antidote for treatment of VPA overdose. Case reports describe the efficacy of naloxone, L-carnitine and various extracorporeal elimination techniques in the treatment of VPA toxicity. We present the case of a 31 year old female with VPA intoxication who was successfully treated with hemodialysis and L-carnitine, and a review of the literature on the management of VPA overdose.