The pharmacological management of epilepsy associated with psychological disorders

The anticonvulsant treatment of epilepsy associated with psychological disorders is reviewed in the light of modern knowledge of the clinical pharmacology and adverse mental effects of the drugs. Careful monitoring of individual drug therapy from the onset of treatment improves compliance and seizure control and avoids unnecessary and harmful polypharmacy, and some of the neurological and psychosocial problems of chronic epilepsy. In chronic patients on polypharmacy cautious rationalization may improve mental function but can be hazardous due to withdrawal seizures. A clearer perception of the limits of anticonvulsant therapy will allow more attention to appropriate psychosocial measures.