Valproate

Valproate:

What is it used for?

Sodium valproate is a medication used for epilepsy, migraine prevention and mania.

 

Risks during pregnancy:

 

Taking sodium valproate during pregnancy can seriously harm an unborn baby.

It can cause birth defects (physical problems when the baby is born) and developmental problems that may affect how the child learns and grows as they get older.

 

Because of these risks, valproate should only be used in pregnancy when no other treatment works, and always under close medical supervision.

 

Pregnancy Prevention Program:

If you are taking sodium valproate and are of childbearing age, you will be required to sign the annual acknowledgement form as part of the Pregnancy Prevention Programme.

 

The pregnancy prevention program is a formal safety protocol designed to reduce the risk of harm to unborn babies from certain medicines known to cause birth defects. It is required for patients who are prescribed these medicines and who could become pregnant.

 

This typically is a discussion with your doctor or pharmacist, and you will need to sign a formal risk acknowledgment form. This confirms that:

You understand the risks of taking the medicine during pregnancy
You’ve received counselling from your healthcare provider
You agree to use highly effective contraception
You’ll undergo regular pregnancy testing

You should review this with your GP once a year to review the risks and ensure it is still appropriate for you. 

Contraception

If you are taking sodium valproate, it’s very important to use effective contraception to avoid becoming pregnant while on this medicine, as it can cause serious harm to the unborn baby. Before starting valproate, you will need to have a pregnancy test, and you’ll have regular check-ups and reviews while taking it. The most reliable methods of contraception include the contraceptive implant, coil (IUD or IUS), and the contraceptive injection. Your doctor or specialist will discuss the options with you and help you choose what’s best for you.

 

Planning a pregnancy

If you’re thinking about becoming pregnant, make an appointment with your doctor before stopping your contraception. Your doctor can help you plan this safely and may discuss changing to a different treatment before you try for a baby.

Do not stop taking sodium valproate suddenly, as this can be dangerous. Always seek advice from your doctor or specialist first.

 

If you are already pregnant

If you think you might be pregnant or have found out that you are pregnant while taking sodium valproate, book an appointment with your doctor straight away.

Do not stop taking valproate suddenly, as this can be harmful to you.

Your doctor will review your treatment and help you make the safest plan for you and your baby.

 

If you are Breast Feeding

If you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed, speak to your doctor or pharmacist, they will advise you on the safest option for you and your baby.

 

 

Support and further information:

https://www.medicinesinpregnancy.org/leaflets-a-z/sodium-valproate/

https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/sodium-valproate/pregnancy-breastfeeding-and-fertility-while-taking-sodium-valproate/

https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/rmm/2716/Document