title: Divalproex sodium extended-release for the prophylaxis of migraine headache.
abstract: The Diamond Headache Clinic first began using valproic acid in 1984. Subsequently, a variety of open-label and then placebo-controlled trials were carried out with valproic acid, followed by an enteric-coated formulation known as divalproex sodium delayed-release. These trials demonstrated a consistent pattern of efficacy and the delayed-release form improved tolerability while offering a twice-daily dosing schedule. This led to the development of an extended-release formulation. This formulation further improved tolerability and led to a once-daily dosing. The pivotal trial conducted in patients with migraine with the extended-release formulation demonstrated efficacy similar to that seen with the delayed-release form.
authors.affiliation: Diamond Headache Clinic, Suite 500, 467 W Deming Place, Chicago, IL 60614, USA. dhcdoc@aol.com
authors.forename: Fred G
authors.initials: FG
authors.lastname: Freitag
mesh_terms: D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D003692:Delayed-Action Preparations; D004334:Drug Administration Schedule; D018682:GABA Agents / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000493:pharmacokinetics / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006801:Humans; D008881:Migraine Disorders / Q000517:prevention & control*; D016032:Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; D014635:Valproic Acid / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000493:pharmacokinetics / Q000627:therapeutic use*
chemical_list: D003692:Delayed-Action Preparations; D018682:GABA Agents; D014635:Valproic Acid