New regulatory measures are in place regarding valproate:
- new GP system computer alerts
- smaller pack sizes to encourage monthly prescribing
- a pictogram/warning image on valproate labelling
All women and girls who are prescribed valproate should contact their GP and arrange to have their treatment reviewed.
Healthcare professionals who seek to prescribe valproate to their female patients must make sure they are enrolled in the PPP. Valproate must no longer be prescribed to women or girls of childbearing potential unless they are on the pregnancy prevention programme. These measures will help reduce the number of pregnancies exposed to valproate medicines to an absolute minimum and will make sure all women and girls of childbearing potential are aware of the risks.
