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Table 12.6 Effects of Valproic Acid and Divalproex on Reducing Aggressive Behaviour

by | Dec 11, 2018

Table 12.6 Effects of Valproic Acid and Divalproex on Reducing Aggressive Behaviour

Author Year   Country   Research Design   PEDro   Sample Size Methods Outcomes

Chatham Showalter & Kimmel (2000)

USA

Case Series

N=29

 Population: TBI; Mean Age=48.2 yr; Mean Time Post Injury=28.6 days.   Treatment: A retrospective chart review of patients receiving divalproex treatment in an attempt to reduce symptoms of agitation following injury. Symptoms of agitations included easily aggravated, escalating temper, biting, punching, restless, etc.   Outcome Measure: Agitated Behaviour Scales.
  1. 8 patients had treatment with divalproex (mean 714 mg) leading to rapid resolution of symptoms to near total recovery.
  2. For a second subgroup (n=18), progress notes prior to and during treatment demonstrated decreased and significant improvement in symptoms within 7 days of receiving divalproex (mean dose 1,257mg).
  3. Most patients were discharged to their homes (n=23) or to other community sites (n=4).

Wroblewski et al. (1997b)

USA

Case Series

N=5

Population: TBI; Mean Age=38.2 yr; Gender: Male=4, Female=1.

Treatment: Valproic acid.

Outcome Measure: Aberrant Behaviour Checklist.
  1. Each patient was reviewed individually, with no cross-case comparisons. All showed a substantial reduction in target behaviours.