• Topamax

    Anti-Epileptic Drugs in Reproductive Age Women: Valproic Acid and Topiramate Commonly Used

    There have long been concerns regarding the safety of the anticonvulsant valproic acid (Depakote) during pregnancy.  Back in 2009, the American Academy of Neurology and American Epilepsy Society recommended against the use of valproic acid [...]

    Clinical Update: Use of Topiramate (Topamax) During Pregnancy

    Topiramate (TPM, marketed as Topamax) is an antiepileptic drug which is also used for migraine prophylaxis, weight loss, and, less commonly, as a mood stabilizer.  Over the last few years we have seen several studies suggesting an increased risk of oral clefts in infants exposed to topiramate during the first trimester of pregnancy.  You can read more about those studies here:

    More on Topiramate (Topamax) and Risk of Oral Clefts

    Earlier this year we reported on a possible association between first trimester exposure to topiramate (Topamax) and increased risk of cleft lip and palate.  In a recent study published by the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, researches drew upon data from two birth defect databases to further delineate the risks associated with topiramate exposure.

    From the North American AED Pregnancy Registry: The Newer Anticonvulsants Appear to Be Safer

    While it is well-established that several of the older anticonvulsants, including valproate (Depakote), carry a significant teratogenic risk, less is known about the reproductive safety of the newer antiepileptic drugs (AEDs). The North American AED Pregnancy Registry was established in 1997 for pregnant women in the United States and Canada at the Massachusetts General Hospital. The purpose of the registry is to obtain and publish information on the frequency of major malformations among infants whose mothers have taken one or more AEDs during pregnancy.

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