New advice for male patients taking Valproate

The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has issued new advice for male patients taking Valproate.

Valproate is a medication used to help manage epilepsy and some mood disorders. Brand names include Epilim and Depakote.

Male patients taking Valproate must speak to their specialist or GP before making any changes to their medication.

The MHRA has advised that new studies have shown a potential small increased risk of neurodevelopmental problems for children conceived whilst the father is taking Valproate, or has taken it in the last 3 months.

Advice for men taking Valproate

• it is recommended that you and your female sexual 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 so by a healthcare professional
• report any suspected adverse drug reactions associated with valproate on a Yellow Card

More Information

• Advice for male patients on valproate to use contraception
• Visual risk communication diagram

If you are taking Valproate and have any questions about this new advice, please contact your surgery and ask to speak to the Primary Care Network Clinical Pharmacist for your GP surgery or book an appointment with a clinician at your GP surgery.

Published: Nov 19, 2024