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Cognitive side effects of anticonvulsants
1Weill Medical College of Cornell University and the Bipolar Disorders Research Clinic, Payne Whitney Clinic-New York Presbyterian Hospital, New York, USA. JFGoldbe@mail.med.cornell.edu
The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry
|July 27, 2001
Summary
Anticonvulsant drugs impact psychiatric cognition, with newer medications like lamotrigine showing varied effects. Evaluating cognitive changes in psychiatric patients requires careful consideration of drug side effects versus illness symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Anticonvulsant drugs are increasingly used in psychiatric treatment.
- Their effects on cognition are a growing area of concern and research.
- Distinguishing drug-induced cognitive changes from illness-related deficits is challenging.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current understanding of anticonvulsants' role in psychiatric cognition.
- To emphasize the cognitive effects of newer anticonvulsant agents.
- To discuss the evaluation of cognition in psychiatric patients using these medications.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on anticonvulsants and cognition.
- Focus on newer drugs: lamotrigine, gabapentin, topiramate.
- Examination of cognitive aspects in affective disorders.
Main Results:
- Older and newer anticonvulsants have diverse effects on cognitive performance.
- Cognitive disturbances may stem from medication or underlying psychopathology.
- Specific newer agents like lamotrigine, gabapentin, and topiramate warrant detailed investigation.
Conclusions:
- Anticonvulsants significantly influence cognitive function in psychiatric patients.
- Further research is needed to clarify the differential effects of various anticonvulsant drugs.
- A nuanced clinical approach is essential for assessing cognition in patients on anticonvulsant therapy.