Valproic acid may cause which serious adverse effects?

• A. Liver dysfunction and pancreatitis
• B. Hair loss and acne
• C. Hyperkalemia and hypertension
• D. Kidney stones

Answer: (B)

Valproic acid carries the potential for serious liver injury and pancreatitis, which is why these effects are emphasized as the important adverse risks. Hepatotoxicity can occur early, especially in young children or people with preexisting liver disease, so baseline and periodic liver function tests are important and symptoms like jaundice, dark urine, right‑sided abdominal pain, or unexplained vomiting warrant immediate evaluation and possible discontinuation of the drug. Pancreatitis is another serious risk that can occur at any time and presents with persistent abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting, with laboratory testing (lipase/amylase) helping to confirm it. Hair loss can happen with valproic acid, but it’s not a life-threatening complication, and the other listed effects are not typical for this medication.