A 31-year-old woman taking sodium valproate for epilepsy asks for an emergency supply while travelling. Her PMR confirms long-term use, but she is

Question

A 31-year-old woman taking sodium valproate for epilepsy asks for an emergency supply while travelling. Her PMR confirms long-term use, but she is sexually active and says she is not using contraception. What is the most appropriate action?

Accepted Answer

Supply if clinically justified and urgently refer for valproate safety review

Answer

Supply folic acid instead of valproate

Answer

Change valproate to carbamazepine as an emergency supply

Answer

Supply 6 months and reassure that no action is needed

Answer

Refuse supply and advise stopping valproate today

Valproate pregnancy prevention — GPhC CRA MCQ

A 31-year-old woman taking sodium valproate for epilepsy asks for an emergency supply while travelling. Her PMR confirms long-term use, but she is sexually active and says she is not using contraception. What is the most appropriate action?