Valproate (Belvo, Convulex, Depakote, Dyzantil, Epilim, Epilim Chrono or Chronosphere, Episenta, Epival, and Syonell): review by two specialists required for male patients
Published: 13 February 2025
The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has published a Drug Safety Update for Valproate products. The Commission on Human Medicines (CHM) has advised a review by two specialists is required for initiating valproate in male or female patients under 55 years but not for men (or male patients) already taking valproate.
The MHRA has produced infographics for the follow situations to clarify in which situations review by two specialists may be required:
- for female patients under 55 years old
- for male patients under 55 years old
- for male and female patients over 55 years old
A list of who might qualify as a specialist can be found in the Valproate safety measures collection. Healthcare professionals are reminded to report suspected adverse reactions associated with valproate using the Yellow card scheme.
Patients are advised not to stop taking valproate without advice from a specialist.
Further information, advice for healthcare professionals and advice for healthcare professionals to provide to patients can be found on the MHRA website.