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What Are The Side Effects Of Valproic Acid That Could Affect One's Work And Physical Activities?

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Posted on Wed, 27 Jul 2022
Question: I am a 54 year old male in very good health (run, bike, snow ski, golf, spin class). I met with my doctor today and she has subscribed a prescription for Valproic Acid for my alcohol addiction. I am mentally stable and very functional on my job. I'm concerned about any side effects that could interfere with my work and physical activities. What are your thoughts?
Thank You
doctor
Answered by Dr. Dr. Ashok Kumar Choudhary (2 hours later)
Brief Answer:
Yes there are side effects

Detailed Answer:

Hi,

This is true that Valproic acid have side effects but we need to understand that side effects are not for everybody and presence of optimum health almost minimizes chance of side effects. Many of the individuals who take valproic acid report side effects and only few of them experience side effects.

In addition we also need to understand that prescription of valproic acid means that the benefits outweigh the risk associated with side effects. As I can see that the alcohol addition is ongoing, the prescription of valproic acid is there to help you in craving as well as detoxification.

I hope this helps you. Feel free to write back to me if you have more questions.
Regards.
Note: In case of any other concern or query related to prevention, evaluation, diagnosis, treatment, or the recovery of persons with the any type of addiction or substance use, follow up with our Addiction Medicine Specialist. Click here to book a consultation now.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Remy Koshy
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Answered by
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Dr. Dr. Ashok Kumar Choudhary

Psychiatrist

Practicing since :2000

Answered : 3354 Questions

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What Are The Side Effects Of Valproic Acid That Could Affect One's Work And Physical Activities?

Brief Answer: Yes there are side effects Detailed Answer: Hi, This is true that Valproic acid have side effects but we need to understand that side effects are not for everybody and presence of optimum health almost minimizes chance of side effects. Many of the individuals who take valproic acid report side effects and only few of them experience side effects. In addition we also need to understand that prescription of valproic acid means that the benefits outweigh the risk associated with side effects. As I can see that the alcohol addition is ongoing, the prescription of valproic acid is there to help you in craving as well as detoxification. I hope this helps you. Feel free to write back to me if you have more questions. Regards.