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Sodium valproate pregnancy prevention — GPhC CRA MCQ

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ModerateCNS TherapeuticsSodium valproate pregnancy preventionGPhC CRA

A 23-year-old woman taking sodium valproate for epilepsy presents a repeat prescription. She says she is planning a pregnancy and has not seen her specialist recently. What monitoring is required?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: C — Do not simply continue supply; urgently refer for specialist review and Pregnancy Prevention Programme checks

Valproate is highly teratogenic and is subject to strict risk minimisation measures. A patient planning pregnancy requires urgent specialist review rather than routine continuation or abrupt stopping without medical advice. The pharmacist should ensure the patient understands the risks and is supported to access specialist care.

Reference: MHRA; BNF