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@article{171046,
        author = {Swaminath G Iyer and Arya MS and Shaiju S Dharan},
        title = {A CASE REPORT ON SODIUM VALPROATE INDUCED PITTING PEDAL EDEMA WITH MYOCLONUS},
        journal = {International Journal of Innovative Research in Technology},
        year = {2025},
        volume = {11},
        number = {7},
        pages = {4125-4126},
        issn = {2349-6002},
        url = {https://ijirt.org/article?manuscript=171046},
        abstract = {Sodium valproate, an established anticonvulsant and mood stabilizer, is widely used in the management of epilepsy, bipolar disorder, and migraine prophylaxis. While its efficacy is well-documented, sodium valproate is associated with a range of adverse effects, including hepatotoxicity, weight gain, and thrombocytopenia. Pedal edema is a relatively rare side effect of sodium valproate and is often underreported. Understanding the pathophysiology, presentation, and management of sodium valproate-induced pedal edema is crucial for optimizing patient care. This report details the case of a 45-year-old female with a history of bipolar disorder, managed with sodium valproate for the past two years. The patient developed bilateral pedal edema, which was initially attributed to other potential causes, such as cardiac or renal dysfunction. However, after extensive investigations ruled out these causes, a correlation was made between the onset of edema and sodium valproate therapy. Discontinuation of sodium valproate resulted in a significant reduction of edema, confirming the diagnosis. Sodium valproate-induced pedal edema is an uncommon adverse effect, and its exact mechanism remains unclear. Proposed mechanisms include vasodilation, altered vascular permeability, and sodium retention. This case highlights the importance of a thorough differential diagnosis in patients presenting with pedal edema while on sodium valproate. The management primarily involves discontinuation or dose reduction of the drug, and in some cases, diuretic therapy may be necessary. Clinicians should be aware of sodium valproate as a potential cause of pedal edema, particularly in patients with no other identifiable risk factors. Early recognition and management can prevent unnecessary investigations and improve patient outcomes. Discontinuation of sodium valproate often leads to resolution of the edema, underscoring the importance of considering medication side effects in the differential diagnosis.},
        keywords = {},
        month = {January},
        }