Pregnancy and epilepsy

Epilepsia. 1991:32 Suppl 6:S51-9. doi: 10.1111/j.1528-1157.1991.tb05893.x.

Abstract

Women with epilepsy account for approximately 0.5% of all pregnancies. Their pregnancies are high risk because of an increased frequency of maternal seizures, complications of pregnancy, and adverse pregnancy outcomes. The increase in seizure frequency is associated with a progressive decline in antiepileptic drug (AED) levels during pregnancy even with constant dosing. Fetal deaths after a generalized seizure, although rare, have been reported, and a marked decline in fetal heart rate has been demonstrated after such seizures during delivery. AEDs have been implicated in causing a twofold increase in the rate of congenital malformations, a variety of minor physical anomalies, mostly involving the midface, and a neonatal hemorrhagic disorder. The clinician caring for a pregnant woman with epilepsy is therefore faced with a dilemma and must carefully chart a middle ground providing effective seizure control while minimizing fetal exposure to AEDs.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Abnormalities, Drug-Induced / etiology
  • Adult
  • Anticonvulsants / adverse effects
  • Anticonvulsants / pharmacokinetics
  • Epilepsy / complications*
  • Epilepsy / drug therapy
  • Epilepsy / physiopathology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Complications* / drug therapy
  • Pregnancy Complications* / physiopathology

Substances

  • Anticonvulsants