Interactions Between Anti-Epileptic Drugs and Contraceptives: A Review

Around half of the pregnancies in women with epilepsy are unplanned and choice contraceptive method epileptic is important, since it requires considering their possible pharmacological interactions certain types anti-epileptic drugs. Drugs from this class which induce hepatic enzyme activity may alter metabolism most hormonal methods contraception, affect efficacy. Hormonal contraception regarded as highly effective, but its interaction anti-epileptics accelerate latter consequent risk failure, reduction plasma concentration predisposing to seizures, unwanted pregnancies, abortions, teratogenicity, maternal or fetal complications difficulty management during pregnancy. In case prescribing both medications, combined use a barrier should be considered. Family planning counseling at first visit has been shown influence method. conclusion, different therapeutic options analyzed together patients order achieve optimize best goal for each one This article reviews these issues offers practical recommendations patients.