I. Buraga, L. M. Antoce, C. Baetu, A. Dobrescu, O. Milea, M. M. Buraga
Abstract: The main goal of this review is to provide some answers about the best therapy of pregnant women with epilepsy and/or women with epilepsy taking oral contraception. We have collected information’s concerning the problems that may arise before and after a pregnancy, involving the best therapeutically options for a pregnant woman. Women with epilepsy have frequent menstrual disorders, reproductive endocrinological disturbances,
ovulatory dysfunction and infertility, presenting a risk of contraceptive failure associated with some antiepileptic. Antiepileptic drugs have some side effects on pregnancy by increasing the rate of abortion, preterm labor and vaginal bleeding, especially in polytherapy. Pregnancy can affect the pharmacokinetics of antiepileptic drugs at any level from absorption, distribution, metabolism, and therefore we have showed a list of the most used antiepileptic and how they can affect a future pregnancy from conceiving until delivery and after. Epilepsy represents a sensible field in relationship with pregnancy that involves contraception, heredity and teratology, especially if we consider that the risk of a convulsive seizure to mother and child is frequently over weighted by a continued therapy.
DOI:10.18643/gieu.2013.203