Comparative Pharmacology
Head-to-head clinical analysis: CELONTIN versus DEPAKOTE CP.
Peer-Reviewed Evidence
Head-to-head clinical analysis: CELONTIN versus DEPAKOTE CP.
CELONTIN vs DEPAKOTE CP
Comparing the clinical profiles, pharmacokinetic behaviors, and safety indices of these two therapeutic agents.
Increases levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the central nervous system, possibly by inhibiting GABA transaminase or enhancing GABA release; also reduces calcium influx into neurons, stabilizing neuronal membranes.
Valproate increases GABA concentration in the brain by inhibiting GABA transaminase and succinic semialdehyde dehydrogenase. It also blocks voltage-gated sodium channels and T-type calcium channels.
300 mg orally three times daily, increased by 300 mg every 3-4 days as tolerated; usual maintenance dose 900-2400 mg/day in divided doses.
250-500 mg orally twice daily, titrated by 250 mg/day every 3-7 days; maximum 60 mg/kg/day. Target trough serum concentration: 50-100 mcg/mL.
None Documented
None Documented
Terminal elimination half-life: 40-60 hours in adults, 30-45 hours in children; prolonged liver disease or renal impairment may increase half-life.
Terminal elimination half-life is 9-16 hours (mean ~12 hours) in adults; prolonged in hepatic impairment, elderly, and neonates.
Renal: approximately 40-60% as unchanged drug; hepatic metabolism accounts for the remainder, with metabolites excreted renally.
Renal: 30-50% as glucuronide conjugates, 3% as unchanged drug; fecal: minimal; less than 3% excreted in bile.
Category C
Category C
Anticonvulsant
Anticonvulsant