Time to re-evaluate the risks and benefits of valproate and a call for action.

Oliver D HowesThomas R E Barnes Belinda R Lennox Sarah Markham Sridhar Natesan

Published in: The British journal of psychiatry : the journal of mental science (2022)

Valproate is widely used in psychiatry and neurology, including off-label use. Here we consider its potential benefits and risks, particularly for women of childbearing potential, and the evidence that clinical guidelines are adhered to. Finally, we consider the implications for clinical practice and research into its efficacy in off-label indications.

Keyphrases

clinical practice
human health
risk assessment
polycystic ovary syndrome
climate change
pregnancy outcomes
type diabetes
adipose tissue
breast cancer risk