Target Valproic Acid Level with Depakote

Indication-Specific Targets

• The American Academy of Family Physicians recommends targeting 40-90 mcg/mL for mood stabilization and control of impulsive behaviors in patients with bipolar disorder 1, 2

Status Epilepticus

• Higher acute levels are acceptable when using IV loading doses of 20-30 mg/kg, which may produce initial concentrations of 65-80 mcg/mL or higher, in the treatment of status epilepticus 3

Practical Monitoring Schedule

• The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry recommends checking valproic acid levels every 3-6 months once stable dosing is achieved, in patients with epilepsy or bipolar disorder 4
• Concurrent monitoring should include liver enzymes, complete blood count (especially platelets), and coagulation parameters as indicated, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians 1, 2