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Valproate pregnancy prevention — GPhC CRA MCQ

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HardCNS TherapeuticsValproate pregnancy preventionGPhC CRA

A 29-year-old woman with epilepsy takes sodium valproate and asks for advice because she is planning pregnancy. She says she has heard mixed information online 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: ERefer to her specialist urgently to review valproate and pregnancy prevention requirements

Valproate is highly teratogenic and is subject to strict pregnancy prevention and specialist review requirements. Stopping antiepileptic treatment abruptly can also be dangerous because of seizure risk. The pharmacist should refer urgently for specialist review and ensure the patient understands the need for effective contraception until reviewed.

Reference: MHRA Drug Safety Update; BNF