New MHRA valproate guidance: Our position

This week’s update on the MHRA review into the safe use of valproate took us, and other epilepsy organisations, by surprise. We have registered our serious concerns with the MHRA and have reached out to gather responses from our PREVENT21 experts who champion the prevention of SUDEP. 

We are now gathering evidence but it is vital that SUDEP / mortality risk discussions happen alongside valproate discussions. SUDEP / premature death is a real risk for people with epilepsy. Not taking medication is a key risk factor. Anyone with epilepsy, including pregnant women, must have these safety risks discussed with them so they can make informed choices about their medication, treatment and lifestyle.

This is why we have information about sodium valproate risks already in our SUDEP & Seizure Safety Checklist (for clinicians) and our EpSMon app (for people with epilepsy).

Find out more about:

Epilepsy risks  www.sudep.org/epilepsy-and-risk

Our EpSMon app  www.sudep.org/epsmon

The SUDEP & Seizure Safety Checklist  www.sudep.org/checklist

Pre-conception/pregnancy advice  https://www.womenwithepilepsy.co.uk/

If you've been bereaved by epilepsy, we are here for you: https://sudep.org/someone-has-died ([email protected] or 01235 772852)

If you wish discuss your epilepsy and how these upcoming changes may affect you, contact Epilepsy Action via their helpline at 0808 800 5050 or email [email protected]