In utero exposure to antiepileptic drugs: teratogenicity and neonatal morbidity

Curr Neurol Neurosci Rep. 2007 Mar;7(2):133-8. doi: 10.1007/s11910-007-0008-4.

Abstract

Clinical studies have extensively documented the various risks posed by in utero exposure to antiepileptic drugs (AEDs). However, it is difficult to sort out the extent to which any given AED is responsible for a particular outcome, given the disparities in patients taking the drugs, their type and severity of epilepsy, and the various possible AEDs, as well as the vast number of outcomes that could be assessed. This review focuses on AED exposure during pregnancy and how it affects the risks of neonatal morbidity and major congenital malformations.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anticonvulsants / adverse effects*
  • Epilepsy / drug therapy*
  • Epilepsy / epidemiology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Morbidity
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Complications / chemically induced*
  • Pregnancy Complications / epidemiology
  • Prenatal Exposure Delayed Effects*
  • Teratogens*

Substances

  • Anticonvulsants
  • Teratogens