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Bipolar disorder - Management
How should I monitor someone taking valproate?
- Before starting treatment, a full blood count, baseline liver function tests (LFTs), height, and body weight are usually measured.
- LFTs and a full blood count should be repeated 6 months after treatment has been initiated. Monitoring of weight is only required in people who gain weight rapidly.
- Valproate levels are not routinely measured unless there is evidence of ineffectiveness, poor adherence, or toxicity.
[National Collaborating Centre for Mental Health, 2006]
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