Sodium valproate and the fetus: a case study and review of the literature
Smith, Jacqueline, and Whitehall, John (2009) Sodium valproate and the fetus: a case study and review of the literature. Neonatal Network, 28 (5). pp. 363-367.
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Abstract
Sodium valproate is a teratogen responsible for a wide range of abnormalities, including neural tube defects. It has traditionally been prescribed for epilepsy, but is increasingly used for such psychiatric conditions as bipolar disease. Women of childbearing age taking valproate should be warned of its teratogenicity and advised to plan pregnancies, take a higher dose of folate, discuss reducing the dose of valproate or changing the medication with their physician, and have antenatal screening. After birth, the infant should be examined for a wide range of reported abnormalities. Neurodevelopmental assessment should continue throughout childhood. We present a case that illustrates the need for better education of mothers taking valproate and the medical staff prescribing it.
| Item ID: | 25176 |
|---|---|
| Item Type: | Article (Research - C1) |
| ISSN: | 1539-2880 |
| Date Deposited: | 03 Mar 2013 22:58 |
| FoR Codes: | 11 MEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES > 1103 Clinical Sciences > 110319 Psychiatry (incl Psychotherapy) @ 33% 11 MEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES > 1115 Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences > 111599 Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences not elsewhere classified @ 34% 11 MEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES > 1114 Paediatrics and Reproductive Medicine > 111403 Paediatrics @ 33% |
| SEO Codes: | 92 HEALTH > 9202 Health and Support Services > 920210 Nursing @ 50% 92 HEALTH > 9205 Specific Population Health (excl. Indigenous Health) > 920501 Child Health @ 50% |
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