Side Effects Of Epilepsy Drugs In Pregnancy

Given available information it is recommended that the most effective drug with the fewest side effects be used.

Side effects of epilepsy drugs in pregnancy.

There is limited information available on new anti epileptic drugs and only slightly more on the classic anti epileptic drugs. Anti epileptic drugs should generally be continued during pregnancy with the goal of monotherapy at the lowest effective dose however the risk to the mother and fetus of uncontrolled epilepsy should be considered when deciding on treatment options. It may harm an unborn baby. Valproic acid depakene depakote and topiramate topamax.

Children may be more sensitive to the side effects of the drug. National retrospective cohort study in finland. Some seizure medications should only be used when other options run out as they carry significant potential for serious side effects. Seizure medications for headaches and migraines two seizure medications are also used to prevent migraine headaches.

What is the best drug to take during pregnancy. Side effects can be difficult to recognise in babies children and people with learning disabilities as they may not be able to say how they are feeling. Barroso fv araujo júnior e guazelli ca et al. Idiosyncratic side effects are unique to you no one else has them.

Antiepileptic drugs aed are medications given to control epileptic seizures and convulsions. This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended for medical advice diagnosis or treatment. The drug and pregnancy group. Antiepileptic drug levels should be checked throughout the pregnancy and following delivery.

Effects of maternal epilepsy and antiepileptic drugs during pregnancy on personal health of offspring. During pregnancy this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Epilepsy drugs to. Monitoring drug levels is also very important.

Birth defects including cleft palate neural tube defects skeletal abnormalities and congenital heart and urinary tract defects are a few potential side effects associated with anti seizure medications. Antiepileptic drugs do not cure epilepsy but may reduce the frequency duration and severity of seizures most people must continue taking antiepileptic drugs for their entire lives. Long term or chronic side effects happen when a drug is taken for a long time usually many years. Artama m gissler m malm l et al.

Antiepileptic drugs are prescribed only for. Medication you take during pregnancy can affect your baby.