Valproic acid still is an important cornerstone of medication therapy for bipolar disorders

The antiepileptic agent valproic acid (e.g. Orfiril® long) was approved in Germany in the summer of 2005 for medication-based treatment of manic-depressive diseases and their long-term prevention. In a recently published overview, international experts assessed the available scientific data and the experience of renowned clinical specialists in respect of medication-based treatment of bipolar disorders with valproic acid. In recent times various new therapy options have been developed for medication-based treatment of bipolar disorders. However, the analysis showed that valproic acid will continue to be of great clinical importance. Valproate will be used in the future as monotherapy and as a part of combination therapy for medication-based treatment of acute mania and mixed states, and will be an important therapy option for long-term prevention of bipolar disorders, the authors of the overview considered.

(Fortschr. Neurol Psychiatr 2007 Apr;75(4): p220-35)