The Synthetic Origin of Valproic Acid
Contrary to popular belief that it can be found in a health-focused diet, valproic acid (VPA) is a synthetic drug, not a compound extracted from food. Its history dates back to 1881 when it was first synthesized by American chemist Beverly S. Burton as a derivative of valeric acid. For nearly a century, it was used primarily as a solvent in laboratories, with no known clinical application.
The discovery of VPA's medicinal properties was accidental. In 1962, a French researcher named Pierre Eymard was testing other compounds for anticonvulsant activity using valproic acid as an inert solvent. He and his team serendipitously found that the valproic acid itself was responsible for the observed antiepileptic effects, leading to its eventual approval as an antiepileptic drug in France in 1967 and the U.S. in 1978. This history confirms that VPA was introduced into medicine via laboratory synthesis, not through dietary discovery.
The Natural Precursor: Valeric Acid
While valproic acid is synthetic, it is a derivative of valeric acid, a short-chain fatty acid that does occur naturally. Valeric acid is found in the plant Valeriana officinalis, commonly known as valerian. Valerian has been used for centuries in traditional medicine as a sedative and to treat sleep disorders. However, consuming valerian root or its extracts will provide valeric acid, not valproic acid. The two are different molecules with distinct pharmacological effects and should not be used interchangeably.
Natural vs. Synthetic: The Valerian Connection
- Valerian root: A plant containing naturally-occurring valeric acid.
- Valeric acid: A naturally occurring fatty acid extracted from valerian root.
- Valproic acid: A synthetic chemical compound derived from valeric acid, developed in a lab.
Foods with Valproic Acid-Like Compounds
Adding to the confusion, some studies have shown that certain foods contain compounds with structural similarities to valproic acid. For example, research presented in 2012 suggested that chemicals in foods like berries, chocolate, and teas share some structural features with VPA. However, this does not mean these foods are natural sources of valproic acid. The study focused on potential mood-enhancing properties related to these structural similarities, not on suggesting these foods contain the drug itself. A person cannot and should not attempt to manage a medical condition requiring VPA by increasing their intake of these foods.
Dietary Considerations for Those Taking Valproic Acid
For individuals prescribed VPA, certain dietary interactions and nutritional deficiencies may need to be addressed. It is a prescription medication with serious potential side effects and is not a nutritional supplement.
Valproic Acid: Not a Dietary Supplement
- Prescription-only: VPA is a potent drug available by prescription only for conditions like epilepsy, bipolar disorder, and migraine prophylaxis.
- Serious Side Effects: It carries a risk of serious side effects, including liver damage and birth defects, and should only be used under strict medical supervision.
- Carnitine Deficiency: Long-term use can deplete carnitine levels, a nutrient important for energy production. A doctor may recommend carnitine supplementation to counteract this.
- Drug Interactions: Food intake can affect the absorption of VPA, so it is often recommended to take it with food to reduce stomach irritation. It's crucial to follow a doctor's instructions on dosage and timing.
Comparison: Valproic Acid vs. Valeric Acid
| Feature | Valproic Acid (VPA) | Valeric Acid |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Synthetic, created in a laboratory. | Naturally occurring in the valerian plant. |
| Source | Prescription medication; not found in food. | Valerian root and extracts. |
| Primary Use | Treat epilepsy, bipolar disorder, and migraine. | Traditional sedative and sleep aid. |
| Pharmacology | Affects neurotransmitters (like GABA) and ion channels in the brain to prevent seizures and stabilize mood. | Mild sedative effects. |
| Regulatory Status | FDA-regulated prescription drug. | Dietary supplement (in valerian). |
Conclusion
The notion of finding natural sources of valproic acid in a daily nutrition diet is a complete misconception. Valproic acid is a synthetic pharmaceutical drug that was discovered purely by chance as an effective treatment for epilepsy and mood disorders. While its chemical lineage can be traced back to the naturally occurring valeric acid found in the valerian plant, this is an important distinction to understand. For anyone seeking to treat a medical condition, relying on prescribed medication is the only safe and effective path. Natural remedies like valerian root are not a substitute for a prescription drug and can have their own set of side effects. Adopting a balanced diet for overall health is beneficial, but it will not provide therapeutic levels of valproic acid.
Resources
For more information on valproic acid and its uses, you can consult reputable sources like the National Institutes of Health. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK559112/
