<p>The valproic acid test is used to measure and monitor the amount of valproic acid in the blood and determine whether the drug concentration is within the therapeutic range.The prescribed dose of the drug may be adjusted up or down depending on the results of the blood test. The test may then be ordered at regular intervals, and as needed, to ensure that therapeutic blood concentrations are maintained.One or more valproic acid tests may be ordered when someone starts or stops taking additional medications to judge their effect, if any, on the valproic acid level and may be ordered if the person has a recurrence of symptoms, such as a seizure, a migraine, or bipolar mood swings. Health practitioners will also evaluate their patients for side effects and adverse reactions during initial dosage adjustments and over time.While total valproic acid tests are usual, health practitioners may order a free valproic acid test to monitor blood levels of the drug in patients with certain conditions or in particular disease states. Valproic acid in the blood is highly bound to proteins and only the portion of valproic acid that is unbound or "free" is pharmacologically active. Under normal conditions, the balance between bound and unbound valproic acid in the blood is relatively stable, so measuring the total valproic acid is appropriate for monitoring the therapeutic level. However, in certain conditions and disease states, that balance can be disturbed, the percentage of free or active valproic acid can increase, and the person may experience symptoms of toxicity even though their total valproic acid result falls within the therapeutic range.</p>
Sample Type - Blood
Reporting Time - 48 Hrs
Prerequisites - No special preparation required
Price - ₹1100/-
Add to cart Go Home