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Valproate pregnancy prevention — GPhC CRA MCQ

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HardAdverse Drug Reactions and Drug SafetyValproate pregnancy preventionGPhC CRA

A woman of childbearing potential taking sodium valproate for epilepsy collects a repeat prescription. She says she has stopped contraception because she is not currently in a relationship. What is the most appropriate action?

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Correct answer: D — Discuss pregnancy prevention requirements and refer to the prescriber urgently

Valproate has major teratogenic and neurodevelopmental risks, and strict pregnancy prevention measures apply. The pharmacist should discuss the need for effective contraception and ensure urgent prescriber or specialist review where requirements are not being met. Abruptly stopping valproate can be dangerous and should not be advised without specialist input. Counselling should be documented sensitively.

Reference: MHRA Drug Safety Update; BNF