A Review Study on Drug Utilization Pattern and Adverse Effects of Antiepileptic Drugs

Epilepsy is the second most common chronic neurological disorders characterized by recurrent episodes of seizure. The site of origin of neuron firing contributes for the symptoms ranging from confusions to loss of consciousness. Occurrence of epilepsy in developed countries is between 50 to 100 cases per 1,00,000  populations per year and in developing countries it is to be more than 40 per 1000 populations.  Prescription pattern has been continuously changing with evaluation of newer antiepileptic drugs and is complex. Adverse effects are one of the major reasons for non-adherence to regimen which in turn have negative feedback on therapy outcome. Newer drugs like lamotrigine also contribute for adverse effects such as skin rashes, swelling of gums and many effects are seen with commonly used antiepileptic drugs. Life threatening side effects are reported in about 1:1000 cases. Monotherapy has been identified as ideal treatment for epilepsy due to reduced adverse effects, interactions and thus increased adherence. But for high resistant patients polytherapy is the best way of controlling episodes of seizure. About 60% of people experience ADR on polytherapy used in management of epilepsy.  The present study aims at the drug utilization pattern and adverse drug reactions associated with antiepileptic drugs. Drugs used for various types of seizure and observed adverse effects are tabulated.