Neurodevelopmental Outcomes in Children with Prenatal Exposure to Antiepileptic Drugs: A Systematic Review
A systematic review examines neurodevelopmental outcomes in children prenatally exposed to antiepileptic drugs.
Still Not Enough Data on the Reproductive Safety of Oxcarbazepine (Trileptal)
This meta-analysis is reassuring regarding risk for malformations in children exposed prenatally to oxcarbazepine; however, we still need more data to fully assess reproductive safety.
Essential Reads: What You Need to Know About Bioidentical Hormone Therapy for Menopausal Symptoms
While many peri- and post-menopausal women request bioidentical hormones, there is no data to suggest that bioidential hormones are safer or more effective than FDA-approved hormone replacement therapies.
Essential Reads: Breastfeeding and Anti-Epileptic Drugs
While data are limited regarding AEDs and breastfeeding, it appears that none of the AEDs are excreted at high levels into the breast milk, nor have they been associated with high rates of adverse events in the nursing infant.
Essential Reads: Prenatal Valproate Exposure and Risk of Autism in Children
Prenatal exposure to valproic acid was associated with an increased risk of autism spectrum disorder in exposed children.
Essential Reads: Lamotrigine (Lamictal) Dosing During Pregnancy
About 60% of women with mood disorders experience premenstrual exacerbation or PME of their mood during the premenstrual phase of their cycle.
Essential Reads: Lamotrigine (Lamictal) and Breastfeeding (2021)
Lamotrigine is detected in the breast milk and in the serum of the nursing infant; however, the risk of adverse events is very low.
Essential Reads: Oxcarbazepine (Trileptal) and Pregnancy
Given limited data on the reproductive safety of oxcarbazepine, we would recommend using alternate medications during pregnancy, when possible.Â
Essential Reads: Neurodevelopmental Outcomes in Children with Prenatal Exposure to Antiepileptic Drugs
There is a growing body of literature to indicate that exposure to certain antiepileptic drugs, most notably valproic acid (VPA, Depakote) during critical periods of development may be associated with long-lasting neurodevelopmental deficits.
Essential Reads: Topiramate and Pregnancy (2021)
Multiple studies have associated first trimester exposure to topiramate with increased risk of oral clefts.