Patient/Family Teaching

• Instruct patient to take medication as directed. If a dose is missed on a once-a-day schedule, take as soon as remembered that day. If on a multiple-dose schedule, take it within 6 hr of the scheduled time, then space remaining doses throughout the remainder of the day. Abrupt withdrawal may lead to status epilepticus

• May cause drowsiness or dizziness. Caution patient to avoid driving or other activities requiring alertness until effects of medication are known. Tell patient not to resume driving until physician gives clearance based on control of seizure disorder

• Caution patient to avoid taking alcohol, CNS depressants, OTC medications or herbal products concurrently with valproates without consulting health care professional

• Instruct patient to notify health care professional of medication regimen prior to treatment or surgery

• Advise patient to carry identification at all times describing medication regimen

• Advise patient to notify health care professional if anorexia, abdominal pain, severe nausea and vomiting, yellow skin or eyes, fever, sore throat, malaise, weakness, facial edema, lethargy, unusual bleeding or bruising, pregnancy, or loss of seizure control occurs. Children <2 yr of age are especially at risk for fatal hepatotoxicity

• Emphasize the importance of routine exams to monitor progress

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