Global Antiseizure Medication Access Rises, But Safety Concerns Persist
A comprehensive global review spanning 73 countries reveals that while access to antiseizure medications has significantly improved, safe prescribing practices are lagging behind. The study highlights continued widespread use of valproate, a medication linked to serious birth defects, despite WHO warnings. Researchers from Aston University found that limited access to newer, safer alternatives means millions of women and their unborn children remain at risk, calling for urgent global education and stronger regulatory safeguards to protect vulnerable populations.
A groundbreaking global analysis reveals a concerning paradox in neurological healthcare: while access to essential antiseizure medications has expanded significantly across 73 countries, safe prescribing practices have failed to keep pace with this progress. This disconnect between availability and appropriate usage poses serious risks to vulnerable populations, particularly women of childbearing age and their unborn children.
The Valproate Dilemma
The study conducted by Dr. Adrienne Chan and Professor Ian Wong of Aston University identified valproate as a particularly concerning medication in global antiseizure treatment protocols. Despite being listed by the World Health Organization as an essential medicine, valproate carries significant risks when used during pregnancy. The medication has been definitively linked to serious birth defects including spina bifida, cleft palate, and various neurodevelopmental disorders affecting intellectual capacity, communication skills, behavior patterns, and memory function.
Global Prescribing Disparities
Researchers documented stark differences in prescribing patterns between higher-income and lower-income regions. In many wealthier nations, implementation of stricter regulations and comprehensive pregnancy prevention programs has successfully reduced valproate usage. However, in numerous low- and middle-income countries where newer antiseizure therapies remain prohibitively expensive or difficult to obtain, valproate continues to be prescribed frequently despite the known risks.
Urgent Need for Global Action
The research team emphasizes that immediate, coordinated global action is required to address this critical healthcare gap. Dr. Chan stated, "Our findings show that access to antiseizure medicines is expanding globally, which is good news for patients who previously had little or no treatment options. But the continued widespread use of valproate in some parts of the world is concerning, given its known risks during pregnancy." The study underscores the necessity for enhanced healthcare provider education, improved access to safer alternatives, and stronger regulatory frameworks to protect future generations from preventable harm.
