Abstract
Antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) used in children may affect the oxidative status and child
psychopathology. Our study conducted to investigate the possible causal–effect relationship
between commonly used AEDs, oxidative stress enzymes, and child psychopathology. Overall,
84 children with epilepsy, and 42 controls were assessed by child behavioral checklist
and blood level of oxidative stress enzymes before and after 6 months use of AEDs.
We reported significant statistical difference between patients before and after therapy
regarding attention problems (p-value < 0.001) and motor excess hyperactivity (p-value < 0.01). On the other hand, there were no significant statistical differences
regarding the level of all oxidative stress enzymes after treatment. In conclusion,
AEDs alter child psychopathology by another mechanism rather than changing oxidative
stress enzymes.
Keywords
oxidative stress - child psychopathology - antiepileptics