Clinician's Perspectives and Prescription Practice of Sodium Valproate in the Management of Migraine, Bipolar Disorder, and Epilepsy in Indian Healthcare Settings

Abstract

Objective: To gather clinicians’ perspectives on the management of neurological disorders such as migraine, bipolar disorder (BPD), and epilepsy, as well as the prescription practice of sodium valproate in Indian settings. Methodology: This was a cross-sectional study carried out among clinicians specializing in migraine, BPD, and epilepsy management. The selected participants completed a 29-item questionnaire distributed via email or online platforms. The survey explored prescription practices, clinical observations, and preferences regarding sodium valproate and neurological disorder management. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics, with responses presented as frequencies and percentages. Results: The survey involved 340 participants, and nearly half (45.88%) of them indicated that sodium valproate was their preferred choice for managing migraine, seizures, and BPD. Around 45% of the respondents noted that women are most frequently affected by migraine. Approximately 55% of the clinicians identified anxiety as the most common comorbid condition associated with migraine. About 47% of the participants preferred sodium valproate for migraine prophylaxis, while the majority (76.76%) of the clinicians chose it as the preferred treatment for BPD. Roughly 40% of the respondents reported that a daily dose of 300 mg of sodium valproate was commonly used for migraine. Approximately 54% of participants found that sodium valproate was most often prescribed to individuals in the 18-45 years age group. Additionally, 65% of the participants reported headaches or dizziness as common adverse effects of sodium valproate. Conclusion: This study revealed that sodium valproate was a widely preferred treatment for migraine, epilepsy, and BPD among Indian clinicians, particularly for women and individuals aged 18-45 years. The findings highlighted the prevalent use of 300 mg daily dose for migraine and the common association of anxiety with migraine.