In this episode of the CPPE Pharmacy Conversations podcast, hosts Jo Lane and Sejal Parikh explore the critical topic of patient safety with a focus on the medicines valproate and topiramate.

They are joined by Tony Jamieson, a leading figure in patient safety at NHS England, and Shy Teli, who has been instrumental in developing educational resources around the safe use of valproate.

The conversation begins with an introduction to the significance of valproate in treating epilepsy and bipolar disorder, as well as the severe risks associated with its use during pregnancy. We then discuss the complexities of ensuring patient safety, particularly in the context of women of childbearing age who are prescribed valproate.

Learning outcomes

• Describe the risks associated with valproate (and topiramate) use during pregnancy and the critical role pharmacy professionals play in ensuring patient safety through effective communication and engagement.


• Apply knowledge gained from the episode to demonstrate how to initiate and conduct sensitive conversations with people about valproate, including discussions about contraception and potential side effects.


• Evaluate the effectiveness of your current patient safety practices and implement strategies to improve the management of medications like valproate and topiramate, utilising resources such as CPPE training materials and national guidelines.

Resources and organisations mentioned

• CPPE, Valproate: the hard conversations focal point workshop

• CPPE, Consultation skills learning gateway

• CPPE, Patient safety learning gateway

• MHRA, Valproate safety measures

• NICE, Spotlight on valproate prescribing

Had a listen? Let us know what you think.

In our next episode… we will focus on genomics.

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