Reminder of actions for healthcare professionals:
Actions for GPs
• identify and recall all women and girls on valproate who may be of childbearing potential• provide the Patient Guide to the patient (or her parents or responsible person as necessary)• check they have been reviewed by a specialist in the last year (ie, they have an in-date Risk Acknowledgement Form) and are on highly effective contraception
Actions for specialists• book in review appointments at least annually with women and girls under the Pregnancy Prevention Programme and re-evaluate treatment as necessary• explain clearly the conditions as outlined in the supporting materials• complete and sign with the patient or their responsible person the Risk Acknowledgement Form—copies of the form must be given to the patient or responsible person and sent to their GP
Actions for dispensers• valproate medicines must always be dispensed with the accompanying patient information leaflet• dispense whole packs whenever possible, and ensure there is a warning label either on the carton or added via a sticker• discuss risks in pregnancy with female patients each time you dispense valproate medicines and ensure they have the Patient Guide and have seen their GP or specialist to discuss their treatment and the need for contraception• ensure new packs of valproate information materials are placed in a designated place accessible to all dispensing staff and dispose of any old materials related to valproate medicines