At St Patrick’s Mental Health Services, we are committed to giving you the information you need to help you make informed choices about your care and treatment. Your multidisciplinary team (MDT) will share this information with you, including about your medication.
Always ask a nurse, doctor or pharmacist – all of whom are members of your MDT - if you have any questions or queries about your medication.
Your MDT will ensure that medication you are prescribed is the most suited and effective for you. Your medication may change over time as different circumstances can impact what is appropriate for you. For example, you may need to adapt your medication to allow for other treatments you have been prescribed; to avoid allergies or reactions; or to be suitable when planning or during pregnancy.
If you would like to know more about the medication you are taking or to understand other medication options available to you, the independent Choice and Medication website provides clear, updated information on all the medication we use in your care.
Pregnancy and Valproate: Prevent programme
It is important to be aware that the medication valproate (brand name Epilim®) can have a harmful effect on an unborn baby. The Prevent programme aims to reduce these risks, and, if you are being prescribed medication containing valproate, your MDT will talk you through everything you need to know. If you are a woman of childbearing potential or if you are planning or going through pregnancy, you can find out more information on about valproate from Medicines.ie, the Health Products Regulatory Authority or Choice and Medication.
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Lithium Learning Module