Potential increased risk of problems when certain medicines are taken during pregnancy
This information is for women prescribed the following medications:
- Carbimazole
- Modafinil
- Topiramate
- Pregabalin
- Sodium Valproate
- Valproic Acid
- Valproic Acid (as semisodium valproate)
The above medications are known to, or suspected to, have the potential to increase the risk of problems with the way babies develop when taken during pregnancy (known as medicines with teratogenic potential).
This can especially cause problems during the first trimester (up to week 12 of pregnancy) when a woman may not know she is pregnant.
The product information for these medicines advises that pregnancy should be avoided during treatment, and that you must use effective contraception throughout your treatment. For some of these medicines (Valproate and Topiramate), it may be necessary to have a pregnancy prevention programme agreement in place.
- Highly effective contraceptive methods include male or female sterilisation and long-acting reversible contraceptive methods such as coils.
- Progesterone-only implants are also a highly effective form of contraception as long as you aren’t taking certain other medications called enzyme inducing medications – for example some antibiotics, some epilepsy medications, some medications used to treat HIV, and also some over the counter medications available without a prescription, such as St. John’s wort. Please discuss this with your GP or specialist if you are unsure.
- Other forms of contraception such as combined contraceptives – pills, patches, or vaginal rings – progesterone-only pills and injections are effective, but must be used in combination with a barrier method such as condoms to provide adequate protection against pregnancy.
Things to remember
- If you are planning a pregnancy, please tell your GP or specialist. It may be necessary for you to change your treatment.
- Seek urgent medical advice if you become pregnant or think you might be pregnant.
- Do not stop taking your medication unless advised to by your GP or specialist.
- Have regular discussions with your GP or specialist about your medication and contraception.
- If you have any questions about your medication or effective contraception, please discuss these with your GP or specialist.
Further information
If you have any general medication questions
Please get in touch with the practice in the usual way. If required we can arrange an appointment with one of our Practice Pharmacists or a GP.
