Valproate contraindicated for migraines in pregnant women

Valproate sodium and related products, valproic acid and divalproex sodium, are now contraindicated for prevention of migraine headaches in pregnant women, the FDA announced last week.

Valproate's pregnancy category for migraine use will be changed from “D” (the potential benefit of the drug in pregnant women may be acceptable despite its potential risks) to “X” (the risk of use in pregnant women clearly outweighs any possible benefit of the drug). The change is based on evidence from a recent study that these medications decreased IQ scores in children whose mothers took them while pregnant, the FDA said.

Valproate products will remain in pregnancy category D for treating epilepsy and manic episodes associated with bipolar disorder.