Are We Following MHRA Guidance Regarding Valproate Prescription in Women of Child-Bearing Potential?

[摘要] Aims. To clarify if MHRA guidance regarding valproate prescription in women of childbearing potential is being followedby psychiatrists in Cwm Taf Morgannwg University HealthBoard.Methods. Women of childbearing potential who were prescribedvalproate for mental health conditions were identified by contacting GP practice pharmacists. The notes of these patients werereviewed to see if the ARAF (Annual Risk AcknowledgementForm) had been completed. The GP records were cross-checkedto see if highly effective contraception was prescribed forwomen who were on valproate. The first audit was done inNovember 2018, while the second audit was completed inDecember 2020. The main intervention after the first audit wasgeneral awareness raising amongst psychiatrists in secondarycare about the MHRA guidance and the need for annual reviews,through email reminders and posters. The 2020 audit gathereddetailed clinical information, including the reasons for prescribingvalproate and the doses prescribed.Results. 2018 – out of 53 women on valproate, 1 had a completedARAF, and 15 were on highly effective contraception.

[学科分类] 计算机科学（综合）