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Weight gain associated with valproate in childhood.

Author(s): Demir E, Aysun S

Affiliation(s): Department of Pediatric Neurology, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey.

Publication date & source: 2000-05, Pediatr Neurol., 22(5):361-4.

Publication type: Clinical Trial; Randomized Controlled Trial

Weight gain is a common side effect of valproate treatment. Several mechanisms have been suggested for its pathophysiology; of these, impairment of beta-oxidation of fatty acids and increased insulin secretion have been supported by clinical studies. To investigate whether changes in carnitine and insulin levels had a role in the weight gain occurring with valproate treatment in children, 20 patients with epilepsy were randomly assigned to receive either carnitine or placebo supplementation in addition to valproate. After a follow-up period of 3 months, weight gain was observed in both groups. The mean insulin concentration and insulin/glucose ratios increased. Weight gain did not correlate with carnitine levels. These results suggest that weight gain during valproate treatment is not related to a decrease in carnitine levels. However, an increase in insulin levels together with a decrease in glucose levels may cause weight gain, possibly by stimulating appetite.

Page last updated: 2006-01-11

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