What dose of sodium valproate (valproic acid) should be given to a 2‑year‑old child weighing 10 kg who is having convulsions? | Rounds What dose of sodium valproate (valproic acid) should be given to a 2‑year‑old child weighing 10 kg who is having convulsions? | Rounds
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What dose of sodium valproate (valproic acid) should be given to a 2‑year‑old child weighing 10 kg who is having convulsions?

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Sodium valproate (valproic acid) dosing for pediatric convulsive status epilepticus

For pediatric convulsive status epilepticus treated with intravenous sodium valproate as a second-line anti-seizure medication, the recommended loading dose is 40 mg/kg IV (single dose). [1,2]

For a 2-year-old child weighing 10 kg, the calculated loading dose is 400 mg IV sodium valproate (40 mg/kg × 10 kg). [1]

Dosing calculation

  • Dose (mg) = weight (kg) × 40 mg/kg = 10 kg × 40 mg/kg = 400 mg. [1]

Administration

  • Sodium valproate should be administered as an IV loading dose consistent with the local pediatric status epilepticus protocol. [1]

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