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Semin Neurol 2002; 22(3): 289-298
DOI: 10.1055/s-2002-36648
Copyright © 2002 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA. Tel.: +1(212) 584-4662

Treatment of Women with Epilepsy

Alison M. Pack, Martha J. Morrell
  • Department of Neurology, The Neurological Institute, Columbia University, New York, New York
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Publication History

Publication Date:
15 January 2003 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Epilepsy is equally prevalent in men and women. However, for women there are unique concerns related to hormone effects on seizures and the effects of seizures and antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) on reproductive health. Steroid hormones affect neuronal excitability and seizure frequency. Some AEDs reduce the efficacy of oral contraceptive agents, increasing the probability of unplanned pregnancies. AEDs affect bone density. AEDs may alter reproductive hormones resulting in polycystic-appearing ovaries, anovulatory cycles, and infertility. Seizure frequency may change during pregnancy, seizures may cause pregnancy complications, some AEDs are teratogenic, and many cross into breast milk. The treatment of a woman with epilepsy must consider all these issues.

KEYWORD

Steroid hormones - catamenial seizures - oral contraception - bone health - reproductive health - pregnancy

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