What does this research mean for the field?

Intranasal nano-encapsulated valproic acid (VPA) reduces systemic and fetal exposure while preserving seizure control in pregnant women. Novelty: ClaimNovelty.NOVEL_FINDING. Consensus alignment: ConsensusAlignment.CHALLENGES_CONSENSUS.

What question did this study set out to answer?

The aim is to improve the delivery of valproic acid during pregnancy while minimizing fetal exposure and maximizing maternal efficacy.

February 19, 2026RSC Pharmaceutics1 citationsOpen Access

Redesigning valproic acid therapy in pregnancy: intranasal liposomes for targeted maternal treatment

BCBruna CorradettiHouston Methodist LZLuigi C. ZangariUniversity of Bologna FMFrancesco MainardiIstituto Nazionale di Fisica Nucleare, Sezione di Bologna

Key Points

The aim is to improve the delivery of valproic acid during pregnancy while minimizing fetal exposure and maximizing maternal efficacy.
Developed intranasal liposomal formulation of valproic acid (VPA)
Evaluated placental transfer of VPA during systemic dosing
Assessed maternal seizure control and reproductive safety
Intranasal delivery reduces systemic VPA exposure in mothers
Fetal exposure levels decrease compared to standard dosing
Seizure control is maintained with the new delivery method

Abstract

Pregnancy-adapted VPA delivery: systemic dosing increases fetal exposure via placental transfer. Intranasal nano-encapsulated VPA targets the maternal brain, reducing systemic and fetal exposure while preserving seizure control and improving reproductive safety.

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