Valproate use in male patients

Valproate

According to our records, you are receiving a medication called Valproate.

You may know Valproate as another name, this can include: Sodium Valproate, Valproic Acid, Epilim, Depakote amongst others. It is generally used for epilepsy control or as a mood stabiliser. 

This notice is to inform you of a change to the safety guidance for this medication. A recent study identified a possible increased risk of neurodevelopmental disorders in children born to men treated with valproate in the 3 months prior to conception, compared to those born to men treated with other types of medication. 

Further information on this study can be found here.

Subsequent updated advice for patients

• it is recommended that you, and any 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
• if you are considering starting a family, contact you GP surgery in advance to discuss
• if a female partner reports they are pregnant, seek prenatal counselling via the midwife or GP
• do not stop taking valproate unless you are advised to do so by a healthcare professional