Valproic Acid (Sodium Valporate) Test

An anticonvulsant, in a blood sample, valproic acid is determined through the valproic acid Valproate test. Valproic acid holds strong affinity towards protein and the only unbound acid is pharmacologically active. The test is primarily concerned with reducing seizure disorder epilepsy which is a medical condition in the brain allowing miscommunication between electrical signals. The seizures might be caused due to congenital malformation as well as infections including meningitis and encephalitis. Doctors usually prescribe the drug in order to prevent symptoms but over dosage of the drug might lead to a lever damage as the capacity to process the drug varies from person to person

No specific preparations are required for the test. Information on medical history clearly stating any allergies or any underlying medical condition is advised though. On the day of the test, it would be convenient for the physician if the patient wears a short sleeve Shirt/T-shirt as it provides with easier access in drawing the blood. It is recommended that the test be performed at a certain time because, for example, just before a meal as the levels of valproic acid might alter during the day.

The test is useful when the medical condition of a person does not work in response to valproic acid, to determine if medication is not effective and if concentrations tend to degrade. Valproic acid comes in handy to treat bipolar disorders, a condition in which the moods of a person tend to oscillate between high and low. A valproic acid test is also prescribed when an underlying condition affects the balance of protein bound drug, low protein level in blood (hypoalbuminemia) or kidney failure.

The test concerns with drawing blood but the body part through which the sample is obtained varies by age. For example, in case of an infant the blood is drawn by puncturing the feet through a small needle (Lancet). If the sample is drawn from a vein, the arm and the needle are sterilized and the upper arm firmly wrapped through a tourniquet. This eventually creates a pressure and allows for swelling of the vein. Blood is then drawn into a vial or a syringe. Once the sample is collected, the area is covered through a gauze, bandage or a cotton ball and it is advised not to perform any strenuous exercise post the activity.