Medical Alert: Valproate Poses High Risk for Fetal Death and Birth Defects
In a study published in the August 2006 issue of Neurology, valproate poses a higher risk for fetal death and birth defects than other common antiepileptic drugs (AEDs). The study looked at 333 pairs of mother and child in the US and the UK. Four AEDs were tested in this study: valproate, phenytoin, carbamazepine, and lamotrigine. Over 20% of the pregnancies exposed to valproate resulted in fetal death or birth defects such as skull and limb deformities and brain, heart, and lung problems. The other AEDs posed a significantly lower risk to the fetus.
It is recommended that doctors discuss the risks associated with valproate when choosing an AED for women of child-bearing age. When used, the dosage of valproate should be limited, if possible.
Source
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/medicalnews.php?newsid=49085
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