Sodium valproate (Epilim) in the treatment of refractory epilepsy.

Sodium valproate was given to seven children with refractory epilepsy and mental retardation. Four of the children became fit free while another was much improved. Plasma levels of sodium valproate correlated well with the dose prescribed and did not approach the theoretical top-desirable level of 200 microgram/ml despite larger than recommended doses. Side effects were minimal and it is concluded that the drug is safe and useful.