The most popular theory is that valproic acid exerts its effects by increasing the concentration of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. GABA is a neurotransmitter, a chemical that nerves use to communicate with one another. The FDA approved valproic acid in February, 1978 and divalproex in March 1983. PRESCRIBED FOR: Valproic acid is used for the treatment of seizures, bipolar disorder, and prevention of migraines. Medically Reviewed by a Doctor on 9/15/2015. Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration. You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA.
1 Therapeutic nerve blocks are used to treat painful conditions. 2  Such nerve blocks contain local anesthetic that can be used to control acute pain. 3  Diagnostic nerve blocks are used to determine sources of pain. 4  These blocks typically contain an anesthetic with a known duration of relief.
Regional Anesthesia. The potential side effects of regional anesthesia (such as an epidural or spinal block, in which an anesthetic is injected in the lower back), include: 1  Headache â This can occur a few days after the procedure if some of the spinal fluid leaks out.erious but rare complications include: 1  Pneumothorax â When anesthesia is injected near the lungs, the needle may accidentally enter the lung. 2  This could cause the lung to collapse and require a chest tube to be inserted. 3  Nerve damage â Although very rare, nerve damage can occur, causing temporary or permanent pain.