Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The Deputy has a fair point. In advance of my departmental officials meeting with the FACS forum on 23 November, I will ask them to give consideration to this issue.

The HSE's medicines management programme launched its sodium valproate toolkit, an online resource consisting of a patient information booklet, a summary guide for prescribers and a patient-prescriber checklist. This information highlights that sodium valproate should not be prescribed to girls or women of child-bearing age or pregnant women unless alternative treatments are ineffective or not tolerated. The management programme is in contact with the HPRA regarding the EMA's review and any further safety recommendations which might arise from that work.

The Deputy made the point that there should be action now. I will ask my Department to contact the HPRA to discuss the matter in advance of its meeting with the FACS forum on 23 November. I would be happy to discuss the outcome of that meeting with the Deputy.

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