Valproate guidance updated

  • Date: 22 December 2020

UPDATED guidance is now available on best practice in the prescribing of valproate to women during childbearing years.

The guidance is intended to support healthcare professionals providing valproate treatment given the significant risk of birth defects and developmental disorders that can occur if it is taken during pregnancy.

First published last year, the updated guidance reflects minor changes made by the MHRA and changes to GMC decision-making guidelines, as well as updated input from all contributing organisations. It offers updated practical information and guidance on prescribing valproate to women with bipolar disorder or epilepsy, the only licensed indications for its use.

This guidance has been produced on behalf of the Royal College of General Practitioners, Association of British Neurologists and Royal College of Physicians, and endorsed by the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health, among other professional bodies.

Access the new guidance

This page was correct at the time of publication. Any guidance is intended as general guidance for members only. If you are a member and need specific advice relating to your own circumstances, please contact one of our advisers.

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