GPs urged to refer pregnant women on antiepileptics to national register
The call comes as new study links valproate to fetal malformation rate of 12%
GPs are being urged to refer Âeligible patients to a register for pregnant women taking antiepileptics in the wake of a study confirming a fourfold increased risk of fetal malformations associated with valproate.
The study, led by neurologist Professor Frank Vajda, found valproate exposure was linked to a malformation rate of 12% compared with 3% in women not taking antiÂepileptic medication.
He said the findings would help inform best management of epilepsy during pregnancy.
Professor Vajda is director of the Australian Pregnancy Register for Women on ÂAntiepileptic Medications.
