The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has recently issued new advice for male patients taking Valproate.
Valproate is a medication used to help manage epilepsy and some mood disorders. Common brand names include Epilim and Depakote.
The MHRA has advised that new studies have shown that pregnancies conceived whilst the father is taking Valproate carrying a small increased risk of neurodevelopmental problems. Please see the documents below, which have more information.
IT IS VERY IMPORTANT THAT YOU DO NOT STOP OR CHANGE YOUR MEDICATION WITHOUT FIRST SPEAKING TO A HEALTH PROFESSIONAL.
ADVICE FOR MEN TAKING VALPROATE:
- It is recommended that you and your female partner should both use effective birth control (condoms AND another form of female contraception) as a precaution while you are taking Valproate and for at least 3 months after stopping Valproate.
- Allow at least 3 months to pass after stopping Valproate before trying to father a child.
- You should not donate sperm whilst taking Valproate and for 3 months after stopping.
- Do not stop taking Valproate, unless you are advised to do by a healthcare professional.
- Report any suspected adverse drug reactions associated with Valproate on a Yellow Card via https://yellowcard.mhra.go.uk/
If you are taking Valproate and have any questions about this new advice, please contact the surgery on 01204 463777.
IMPORTANT - It is important that you do not stop or reduce your medication, unless advised to do so by a healthcare professional.