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February 19, 2026Women s Health0 citationsOpen Access

Australian Trends in Valproate Medication and Prescription Contraceptives Use

Longitudinal Australian trends in the initiation of valproate medication among women of reproductive age and concurrent use of prescription contraceptives

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Authors

MBMumtaz BegumLGLynne GilesJIJenni Ilomaki

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Overview

Population-based cohort study reveals declining valproate use among women of reproductive age, highlighting contraceptive coverage concerns.

Key Points

  • This research aims to analyze trends in valproate medication initiation and the use of prescription contraceptives among women of reproductive age in Australia.
  • Analysed a 10% random sample of Australian Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme dispensing data.
  • Focused on women aged 15-49 years.
  • Calculated annual rates of initiating valproate and alternative anti-seizure medications.
  • Assessed the proportion of women using long-acting and other prescription contraceptives during treatment commencement.
  • Valproate initiation declined from 2.06 to 0.75 per 1000 women per annum between 2013 and 2021.
  • An increase was noted in the initiation of alternative anti-seizure medications.
  • Contraceptive coverage by intrauterine devices or implants increased from 16% in 2013 to 22% in 2021.
  • In 2021, 69% of women initiating valproate had no prescription contraceptive coverage.

Cite This Study

Begum et al. (2026) studied this question.

synapsesocial.com/papers/6996a84cecb39a600b3eed10https://doi.org/10.1177/17455057251414916
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