The use of divalproex sodium (DVS) as a prophylactic treatment for migraine was studied in 42 patients, 7 to 16 years of age (mean age, 11.3 years) seen between July 1996 and December 1998 at St Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN; and Hasbro Children’s Hospital/Rhode Island Hospital,Divalproex Brown University, Providence, RI. After 4 months treatment with DVS in doses ranging from 15 to 45 mg/kg.day, 10% became headache-free, 14% had a 75% reduction. 78% a 50% reduction in headaches, and 80% were able to discontinue medicines used to abort attacks. Adverse effects included gastrointestinal upset, weight gain, somnolence, dizzinesss, and tremor. None had hepatotoxicity. [1]
COMMENT. In this uncontrolled trial, divalproex sodium was effective as a prophylactic therapy for childhood migraine.