Open AccessEffects of In Utero Antiepileptic Drug Exposure
Author(s) -
Meador Kimford J.
Publication year - 2008
Publication title -
epilepsy currents
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.415
H-Index - 22
eISSN - 1535-7511
pISSN - 1535-7597
DOI - 10.1111/j.1535-7511.2008.00273.x
Subject(s) - lamotrigine , medicine , carbamazepine , phenobarbital , antiepileptic drug , teratology , drug , in utero , epilepsy , valproic acid , pharmacology , pregnancy , pediatrics , psychiatry , gestation , fetus , biology , genetics
Recent studies demonstrate an increased teratogenic risk for valproate and a probable increased risk for phenobarbital. Carbamazepine and lamotrigine appear relatively safe; however, results are inconclusive concerning a specific risk for cleft lip/palate for both drugs as well as a dose‐dependent effect for malformations associated with lamotrigine. Data regarding teratogenic risks for other antiepileptic drugs are inadequate. Additional studies are needed to delineate further the risks for all antiepileptic drugs and determine the underlying mechanisms.