The clinical features, complications, and pharmacokinetics of intentional acute valproic acid (VPA) overdoses are described. Alteration in fatty acid metabolism is evaluated and therapy-induced changes are discussed. Central nervous system features were the predominant clinical manifestations (6/6), followed by respiratory failure (5/6) and multiorgan failure (2/6). Mechanical ventilation was required in 5 of 6 patients because of respiratory depression or deep coma. Hemodialysis was applied in 4/6 of the cases due to hyperammonemia, worsening neurologic condition, or organ dysfunction. Cerebral edema and hemorrhagic pancreatitis ensued in 2/6 of the patients and ICU mortality was 2/6. VPA peak levels ranged from 520 to 1700 mg/L with a mean of 1127 mg/L. Ammonia was elevated in all cases with a mean of 550 microg/dL. All patients showed signs of impaired mitochondrial beta-oxidation with increase of medium- and long-chain acylcarnitines in serum. Severe VPA overdose is associated with a high mortality rate requiring early medical interventions. Beside supportive intensive care, hemodialysis can be considered as an adjunctive measure.     «

The clinical features, complications, and pharmacokinetics of intentional acute valproic acid (VPA) overdoses are described. Alteration in fatty acid metabolism is evaluated and therapy-induced changes are discussed. Central nervous system features were the predominant clinical manifestations (6/6), followed by respiratory failure (5/6) and multiorgan failure (2/6). Mechanical ventilation was required in 5 of 6 patients because of respiratory depression or deep coma. Hemodialysis was applied in...     »