Nail Changes Following Valproate Therapy

Abstract

Valproic acid is a widely prescribed medication for seizure disorders, mood disorders, and migraines. The adverse effects involving nails following the use of sodium valproate are rare. The nail changes reported so far include onycholysis, onychomadesis, the roughness of the nail, brownish-yellow discoloration, and a transverse yellow band. These changes are independent of the age of the patients, dose, and duration of medication. The nail changes are reversible following the discontinuation of the medication.