Dark Side of Medicine™

odium valproate may be taken for many years, particularly when it provides effective control of epilepsy or bipolar disorder. Long-term treatment should be reviewed regularly to ensure that the benefits continue to outweigh the risks and that any emerging side effects or changes in health are considered.

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Recognised Long-Term Health Effects

Some effects associated with longer-term valproate treatment are well recognised. These include weight and metabolic changes, effects on bone health, hormonal and reproductive effects, tremor and other neurological effects. Some people may require additional monitoring depending on their health, dose, length of treatment and other medicines they are taking.

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Monitoring Health Over Time

Regular medicine reviews provide an opportunity to consider how treatment is affecting both the condition being treated and the person's wider health. New symptoms or changes should be discussed with a healthcare professional rather than assumed to be part of the underlying condition or automatically attributed to valproate.