The Prescription of Medication to Pregnant Women Must Be Handled With Care
Our lawyer and pharmacist, Brittany Martin, says the "This tragic article by The Guardian highlights the catastrophic consequences that drugs prescribed to the mother can have on the fetus during pregnancy."
Sodium Valproate, more commonly known by its brand name Epilim, has long been prescribed for a variety of medical conditions.
In modern times, Valproate is often prescribed for people suffering from primary generalised epilepsy and bipolar disorder. It may also be indicated in patients suffering from prolonged seizures (known as status epilepticus) or where prevention of migraines with other treatments have failed.
Despite its efficacy in such conditions, Valproate is classed as a teratogen, as it is known for its ability to cause foetal abnormalities in pregnant women.
The link between Sodium Valproate and birth defects was first established in the 1970s.
Known effects of Valproate use in pregnancy include:
- Increased risk of neural tube defects (such as Spina Bifida)
- Increased risk of other congenital malformations (such as orofacial clefts and cardia, urogenital and limb defects)
- Increased risk of delays in motor and cognitive development (in up to 30 to 40% of children)
There is also emerging data which suggests a link between Valproate use in pregnancy and autism spectrum disorder and autism in children.
These days, prescribers are more cautious when prescribing Valproate to patients. As a known teratogen, Valproate poses risks to both men and women of child bearing potential.
Men are encouraged to cease taking Valproate for up to 3 months prior to conception in order to avoid an increased risk of their children developing a neurodevelopmental disorder.
Prescribers are now encouraged to avoid prescribing Valproate to women of child-bearing potential due to its teratogenic risk.
For women suffering from epilepsy with no effective alternatives, the lowest possible dose of Valproate may be prescribed, albeit with the caveat of ensuring adequate contraception is maintained.
All patients prescribed Valproate are encouraged to talk to their doctor before planning to have children. This way, alternative therapy may be indicated to reduce the risk of birth defects in those suffering from epilepsy.