Evolution and characteristics of the use of valproate in women of childbearing age with bipolar disorder: Results from the FACE-BD cohort

International audience; Background: Valproate is associated with teratogenic and neurodevelopmental effects. Several agencies have restricted the conditions of its prescription in bipolar disorders (BD). We aimed to assess the evolution of valproate prescription and the clinical profile of BD women of childbearing age receiving valproate. Methods: Based on a large national cohort, we included all BD women 16–50 years old. Sociodemographic, clinical and pharmacological data were recorded. Logistic regression analyses were used to describe variables associated with valproate prescription. Results: Of the 1018 included women 16–50 years old, 26.9% were treated with valproate with a mean daily dosage of 968 mg. The prevalence of BD women using valproate was 32.6% before May 2015 and 17.3% after May 2015 (p