Sodium valproate (Epilim) 100 mg crushable tablet: Discontinuation

Talk to your prescriber about alternative treatment

People who take sodium valproate Epilim 100 mg crushable tablets need to move away from the crushable tablet by the end of 2027. Stock remains available and you can continue to access this treatment until late 2027.

Other forms of sodium valproate are available, such as Epilim Syrup, Epilim Sugar-Free Liquid, or a non-crushable tablet. 

If you are affected, please talk to your prescriber when convenient about the best alternative for you. 

Even a small change like this may need careful monitoring from a health care professional. Please do not stop taking or change your treatment without talking to your prescriber. 

We're sorry

We know that changes to medicines like this can be disruptive and that any changes to epilepsy medicines need careful management. Unfortunately, the supplier has made the decision to stop the supply of this medicine globally. 

Information for prescribers

Other forms of sodium valproate are available and funded. Please work with your patients to assess the best alternative and ensure careful monitoring.

People who cannot swallow tablets may benefit from the oral liquid. 

Pharmac is working to identify options for people who cannot move to other funded treatments. 

Sodium valproate monograph | NZ Formulary(external link)

Pharmacists

Please encourage anyone who is dispensed Epilim crushable tablets to talk to the prescriber during 2027. 

Who to contact

If you have a question about this issue, email enquiry@pharmac.govt.nz