Valproate and developmental disorders: new alert asking for patient review and further consideration of risk minimisation measures
Babies born to mothers who take valproate medicines (Epilim▼, Depakote▼) during pregnancy have a 30–40% risk of developmental disability and a 10% risk of birth defects.
Ponatinib (Iclusig▼): risk of vascular occlusive events—updated advice on possible dose reduction
Prescribers should consider reducing the dose of ponatinib to 15 mg a day for patients with chronic phase chronic myeloid leukaemia (CP-CML) who have achieved a major cytogenetic response.
Multiple sclerosis therapies: signal of rebound effect after stopping or switching therapy
Healthcare professionals should report any suspected adverse effects relating to fingolimod (Gilenya▼) or other treatments for multiple sclerosis, including suspected adverse effects occurring after discontinuation, via the Yellow Card Scheme.
Letters sent to healthcare professionals in March 2017
A summary of letters sent to relevant healthcare professionals.