Valproate Prescribing in Women of Childbearing Age: An Audit of Clinical Practice

Background . Evidence is accruing regarding the risks of valproate exposure in women of childbearing age. Recommendations have recently been made for a higher standard of prenatal counselling and prescribing practice in respect of valproate use in this patient group. Aim and Method . A reaudit was carried out to review the standard of clinical discussion around teratogenic risk and pregnancy planning offered to women of child-bearing age prescribed valproate. Case notes and prescription charts of women 45 years old or less were examined and compared with the results of a previous audit in 2005. Results . The use of valproate was increased overall by 64% and there was an 18% increase in off-label valproate use. The rate of clinical discussion carried out during commencement declined from 70% to 35% and at annual review from 50% to 22%. There was less clinical discussion in outpatients and in older patients. More than 40% of doctors surveyed were not confident about giving information to women. Clinical Implication . There is a need for a multidisciplinary approach and action at Healthcare Trust level, to increase awareness and reduce risks associated with valproate prescribing in childbearing women.