valproic acid

 
Pronunciation: /valˈprəʊɪk/

noun

[mass noun] Chemistry
  • a synthetic crystalline compound with anticonvulsant properties, used (generally as salts) in the treatment of epilepsy.
    • Alternative name: 2-propylpentanoic acid; chemical formula: C7H15COOH

Origin:

1970s: valproic from valeric (see valeric acid) + pro(pyl) + -ic