October 5th 2023

By Ailsa Colquhoun

Valproate OPD comes into force on Oct 11

Packs carry special container status

Legislative changes affecting original pack dispensing of valproate come into effect on October 11.

These mandate full pack dispensing of all licensed medicines containing valproate.

To support the changes, from 1 October 2023 all licensed medicines containing sodium valproate, valproic acid and semisodium valproate were reclassified as special containers.

Contractors do not need to endorse the prescription, they will automatically be paid for the relevant number of complete packs.  The special container criteria outlined in Part II Clause 10B of the October 2023 Drug Tariff has been updated.

The manufacturer’s original packs include specific warnings and pictograms on the labelling, including a patient card, along with the statutory patient information leaflet (PIL) and an additional patient booklet, which highlight the risks of taking valproate while pregnant. Supplying complete packs of medicines containing valproate ensures patients, and particularly women and girls of childbearing potential, always receive the PIL with warnings about taking the medicine while pregnant.

Community Pharmacy England has published FAQs on valproate, including guidance on rounding up and down and exceptions to the OPD rule.

For a list of all the monthly changes to the special container status of products, visit: Notice of changes to special container status of products.