Children exposed to valproate in utero are at high risk of developmental disorders and congenital malformations.
This week’s Drug Safety Update from the MHRA signposts new communication materials for use by healthcare professionals.
To further improve awareness of the risks of valproate in pregnancy MHRA are asking that you use the new communication materials to support discussion of these risks with women of childbearing potential and girls who take valproate. Hard copies are being sent to relevant healthcare professionals.
Whenever you dispense a medicine related to valproate for a woman of childbearing potential or girl, give her a patient card unless she confirms she already has one. Also encourage her to read the card and enter her name and date to reinforce her own accountability to consider the information it contains.
If you manage dispensing services in your organisation, ensure processes are in place to meet these requirements.
Continue to report any suspected side effects to valproate or any other medicine on a Yellow Card (see also guidance on reporting side effects experienced by the woman or child to medicines taken during pregnancy).
