Valproate pregnancy planning — GPhC CRA MCQ
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Correct answer: B — Advise urgent specialist review before pregnancy and do not advise abrupt discontinuation
Valproate is highly teratogenic but abrupt cessation can precipitate seizures. In this scenario, the pharmacist should prioritise safe supply, appropriate counselling and timely referral or clarification where needed. This is the single best answer because the other options would either delay assessment, ignore a clinically significant risk, or create an unsafe legal or professional outcome.
Reference: MHRA; BNF