A new map reveals variations in sodium valproate use across England and Wales, highlighting regional disparities in prescription practices.
This epilepsy drug, while effective, poses risks during pregnancy, leading to birth defects and developmental problems in children.
Researchers combined health data to understand the drug's usage, showing a decrease in prescriptions since warnings about its risks were issued.
The study's findings emphasize the potential for data-driven research to improve healthcare and address inequalities in medicine access.