Divalproex sodium therapy in elderly with dementia-related agitation.
OBJECTIVE
To review available literature regarding the use of divalproex sodium in the treatment of agitation in elderly patients with dementia.


METHODS
Clinical trials and review articles were identified by MEDLINE search (1966 - March 2002).


RESULTS
The literature provides information regarding the potential benefits and tolerability of divalproex sodium in the treatment of dementia-related agitation. This article analyzes 7 studies to better understand the role of divalproex sodium in the treatment of dementia.


CONCLUSIONS
Divalproex sodium may offer a slight benefit to elderly patients suffering from dementia-related agitation. Until better-controlled trials demonstrate statistical significance and comparisons with established treatments are performed, practitioners should use divalproex sodium cautiously.
Pratt
Crystal E
CE
Campbell University School of Pharmacy, Buies Creek, NC, USA.
Davis
Steven M
SM
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D018692:Antimanic Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000494:pharmacology*; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D003704:Dementia / Q000188:drug therapy*; D006801:Humans; D011595:Psychomotor Agitation / Q000188:drug therapy*; D014635:Valproic Acid / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000494:pharmacology*
D018692:Antimanic Agents; D014635:Valproic Acid