A role for valproate in the treatment of sedative-hypnotic withdrawal and for relapse prevention.
In the human central nervous system, the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) type A receptor complex undergoes changes with both acute and chronic exposure to sedative-hypnotic drugs. These changes contribute to both the acute effects of these drugs as well as the chronic effects of sedative-hypnotic dependence, withdrawal, and drug craving. Clinically these chronic effects are difficult to treat in patients dependent on ethanol or benzodiazepines. Valproate may return the GABA type A receptor function to a state more closely resembling its normal function. By this mechanism, it is possible to reduce the symptoms of sedative-hypnotic withdrawal and relapse.
Harris
J T
JT
Department of Psychiatry, The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, 78284-7953, USA.
Roache
J D
JD
Thornton
J E
JE
D002908:Chronic Disease; D018682:GABA Agents / Q000494:pharmacology* / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006801:Humans; D006993:Hypnotics and Sedatives / Q000009:adverse effects*; D011963:Receptors, GABA-A / Q000187:drug effects; D055502:Secondary Prevention; D013375:Substance Withdrawal Syndrome / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000209:etiology*; D014635:Valproic Acid / Q000494:pharmacology* / Q000627:therapeutic use*
D018682:GABA Agents; D006993:Hypnotics and Sedatives; D011963:Receptors, GABA-A; D014635:Valproic Acid