Evolution of subclinical hypothyroidism in children treated with antiepileptic drugs

Pediatr Neurol. 2007 Dec;37(6):426-30. doi: 10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2007.07.003.

Abstract

The concentration levels of serum free thyroxine, serum free triiodothyronine, and thyroid-stimulating hormone were measured in 20 children receiving carbamazepine, 32 children receiving valproic acid, and 5 children receiving phenobarbital at the following times: (1) during chronic treatment, and (2) 3 months after the end of treatment with antiepileptic drugs. Patients during chronic treatment revealed significant changes in serum thyroid hormones, especially the children treated with carbamazepine and valproic acid. A number of children receiving long-term therapy with the two last antiepileptic drugs had varying grades of subclinical hypothyroidism. Three months after the end of treatment, a complete return to normal of all parameters was observed. These data demonstrate that the changes induced by these drugs are transient and reversible.

Publication types

  • Clinical Trial
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Anticonvulsants / therapeutic use*
  • Child
  • Drug Administration Schedule
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Hypothyroidism / blood*
  • Hypothyroidism / drug therapy*
  • Male
  • Thyroid Hormones / blood

Substances

  • Anticonvulsants
  • Thyroid Hormones