Epilepsy medication during pregnancy

A recent survey has suggested that 1 in 5 women are not aware of the risks associated to taking epilepsy medicine during pregnancy.

Epilepsy Action, Epilepsy Society and Young Epilepsy surveyed 2788 women with epilepsy aged 16-50. 20% of those taking the Sodium Valproate medium did not know of the associated risks.

Sodium Valproate is known to reduce seizures, but is associated with an increased risk of harm to babies if taken during pregnancy. The Medicines and Heatlhcare product Regulatory Agency advises that the drug can put approximately 4 in 10 babies at risk of a developmental problem, and 1 in 10 at risk of birth defects.

The organisations involved in the survey are urging professionals to ensure that information is given to those taking the medication, and advises anyone concerned to discuss the medication with their healthcare professional, prior to altering their dosage.

Professor Ley Sander, medical director of the Epilepsy Society, commented on the survey:

“The majority of women with epilepsy enjoy healthy pregnancies and give birth to healthy babies. However, these figures highlight a pressing need for women to have the right information about all aspects of pregnancy and the risks linked with sodium valproate. Pre-conception counselling is essential to minimise the risks involved with taking epilepsy medicines or having seizures during pregnancy.”

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