A patient has been started on valproic acid for the treatment of bipolar disorder. The nurse should instruct the patient to do which of the following?

Explanation

•Valproic acid is in pregnancy category D and has been linked to birth defects.

•Weight gain and headaches are common side effects of valproic acid but not contraindications.

•Photosensitivity is not a known adverse reaction to valproic acid.

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