Divalproex loading in the treatment of cocaine dependence

The current pilot project was designed to evaluate the safety and tolerabil ity of a loading dose of divalproex (DVPX) in subjects with cocaine depende nce. Seventeen cocaine-dependent subjects were enrolled in an eight-week, o pen-label trial of 20 mg/kg/day DVPX. Subjects were seen weekly and urine d rug screens were obtained at each visit. Over the eight-week trial, craving intensity and frequency as well as reported time using cocaine decreased s ignificantly. Retention in the current study was 79% at week four and 50% a t week eight. The medication and dosing strategy was well tolerated. This p ilot study indicates that DVPX loading is well tolerated and may be efficac ious in the treatment of cocaine dependence. A placebo-controlled trial wou ld be of interest.