Previous studies have indicated that infants exposed to valproic acid in pregnancy are at increased risk for a range of malformations, including neural tube defects. While these studies have shown an association between valproic acid and various malformations, they have been limited in their ability to quantify the risk of certain, less common malformations. To [...]
Tag Archives: Anticonvulsants
Anticonvulsants and Bone Loss
May 18, 2010 – 4:37 pm
Anticonvulsants are not only used for the treatment of epilepsy but are now used with increasing frequency for the treatment of mood disorders, such as bipolar disorder. Recent studies have indicated that anticonvulsants may negatively affect bone mineral density, as well as increase fracture risk. This seems to be especially common with the older anticonvulsants [...]
Anticonvulsant Use in Pregnancy and Nursing: Differences in Recommendations from Psychiatrists vs. Neurologists
February 3, 2010 – 11:39 am
There are strong parallels between the clinical management of bipolar disorder and epilepsy, and women with these disorders face significant challenges while pregnant or planning to conceive. In this setting, treatment decisions must balance the risks of recurrence of severe illness with the risks of potential harm to the fetus when certain medicines are taken [...]
Anticonvulsants During Pregnancy in Women with Bipolar Disorder
October 6, 2002 – 4:00 pm
Unfortunately the mood stabilizers most commonly used to treat bipolar disorder (including lithium and valproic acid) can increase the risk of certain types of congenital malformations in children exposed to these medications during the first trimester of pregnancy. For women who need a mood stabilizer during pregnancy, lithium is the safest option; however, when used [...]
