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Updated: Jun 28, 2026
07:01
Electrophoretic Delivery of γ-aminobutyric Acid (GABA) into Epileptic Focus Prevents Seizures in Mice
Published on: May 16, 2019
Epileptic disorders in pregnancy: an overview
Cynthia L Harden1, Nitin K Sethi
1Department ofNeurology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA. charden@med.miami.edu
Current Opinion in Obstetrics & Gynecology
|November 8, 2008
Summary
Valproate use in pregnancy is linked to higher risks of major congenital malformations. Achieving seizure freedom before pregnancy and maintaining antiepileptic drug levels are crucial for women with epilepsy.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Obstetrics
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Pregnancy in women with epilepsy (WWE) requires careful management due to potential risks to both mother and child.
- New data provides updated insights into the outcomes of WWE during pregnancy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current information on pregnancy outcomes for women with epilepsy.
- To provide evidence-based recommendations for managing antiepileptic drug (AED) use during pregnancy.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent scientific literature on epilepsy and pregnancy.
- Analysis of data on major congenital malformation rates associated with different AEDs.
- Evaluation of factors influencing seizure control and AED pharmacokinetics during pregnancy.
Main Results:
- Valproate is associated with a 6.2-10.7% risk of major congenital malformations.
- Monotherapy with AEDs other than valproate shows lower risks (2.9-3.6%), similar to untreated WWE (3.1%).
- Seizure freedom prior to pregnancy predicts seizure control during pregnancy; AED levels often decline, especially lamotrigine.
Conclusions:
- Avoid valproate and polytherapy in pregnant WWE when possible.
- Aim for 9-12 months of seizure freedom before conception.
- Maintain therapeutic AED levels with frequent monitoring throughout pregnancy.
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01:24Epilepsy and Seizures: Overview
Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disease marked by recurrent, unpredictable seizures. These seizures are caused by abnormal electrical discharges in the brain, leading to behavior, sensation, or consciousness alterations. They can also cause transient impairment of awareness, interfering with daily activities.
Various factors can trigger epilepsy, including genetic factors, brain damage, metabolic causes, and unknown etiology. Diagnosis of epilepsy involves electroencephalography (EEG), which...
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01:22Epilepsy ll: Types
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01:13Seizures: Classification
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Focal Seizures
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