People taking certain medications have been warned they may need to contact their GP “urgently”. Official NHS guidance says that certain groups are recommended not to take the medication as it can cause health problems.
Sodium valproate, a prescription drug under brand names such as Dyzantil, Epilim, Episenta or Epival, is used to treat epilepsy or bipolar disorder. It comes in the form of capsules, tablets or as a liquid that can be swallowed. It’s also available as granules that can be mixed with food or drink.
As reported by Wales Online, NHS guidance states: “This medicine is only available on prescription. If you’re under 55 years old, it will need to be prescribed by a specialist doctor. The doctor will also need a second opinion from another specialist to show that there is no other suitable treatment for you.”
However, certain groups are advised against using the medicine. The NHS website warns that pregnant women should avoid taking sodium valproate.
The guidance says: “Sodium valproate is not recommended in pregnancy, as it can cause birth defects and problems with your child’s learning and behaviour.
“If there’s a chance you could become pregnant while taking this medicine, your doctor will enrol you on Prevent, the valproate pregnancy prevention programme. If you think you might be pregnant and you’re taking sodium valproate, contact your doctor or nurse urgently.”
Anyone who becomes pregnant while taking the medication should consult their GP before stopping treatment. This is because discontinuing the medicine may cause the symptoms of their condition to deteriorate.
The guidance explains: “Your doctor may continue to prescribe sodium valproate, but only if there’s no other suitable treatment for your epilepsy or bipolar disorder. For pregnant women with recurrent migraine, your doctor should offer you an alternative treatment to sodium valproate.”
Meanwhile, men taking sodium valproate who are considering fatherhood should also speak with their doctor. The advise says: “For men who could possibly have children, it’s important to discuss sodium valproate with your doctor.
“You and your partner should use contraception while you’re taking sodium valproate and for at least three months after stopping. For men who are planning to start a family within the next year, speak to a doctor about your treatment options. Do not stop taking sodium valproate without speaking to a doctor first.”
The medication can also impact fertility in both men and women. The medication has been linked to infertility in men while it can also alter a woman’s menstrual cycle.
NHS guidance explains: “Do not stop or change your medicine without speaking to your doctor, as it may make your condition worse.”
It continues: “In women sodium valproate can change your menstrual cycle, causing delayed or missed periods. Sodium valproate has also been reported to cause polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), though this happens rarely.
“Talk to your doctor if you’re concerned about how sodium valproate may affect your fertility and pregnancy plans.”
This story originally appeared on Express.co.uk
