The effect of VPA on bone: From clinical studies to cell cultures-The molecular mechanisms revisited

摘要

Purpose: Valproic acid (VPA) is a broad-spectrum antiepileptic drug, which is widely used as a first line treatment for idiopathic and symptomatic generalized epilepsy, as well as in non-epileptic psychiatric disorders in adult and pediatric patients. Although valproic acid is considered to be a generally well-tolerated drug, numerous studies have shown an increased bone loss and fracture risk in patients treated with VPA. The purpose of this review is to outline recent findings on VPA molecular mechanisms and their action on bone metabolism.