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Kuang H, Li Y, Lu Y, Zhang L, Wei L, Wu Y. Reproductive and fetal outcomes in women with epilepsy: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2024; 37:2351196. [PMID: 38735863 DOI: 10.1080/14767058.2024.2351196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Although early evidence shows that epilepsy can increase the risks of adverse pregnancy, some outcomes are still debatable. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to explore the effects of maternal and fetal adverse outcomes in pregnant women with epilepsy. METHODS PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, and Web of Science were employed to collect studies that investigated the potential risk of obstetric complications during the antenatal, intrapartum, or postnatal period, as well as any neonatal complications. The search was conducted from inception to November 16, 2022. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) was used to assess the quality of the included original studies. The odds ratio (OR) values were extracted after adjusting for confounders to measure the relationship between pregnant women with epilepsy and adverse maternal or fetal outcomes. The protocol for this systematic review is registered with PROSPERO ID CRD42023391539. RESULTS Of 35 articles identified, there were 142,577 mothers with epilepsy and 34,381,373 mothers without epilepsy. Our study revealed a significant association between pregnant women with epilepsy (PWWE) and the incidence of cesarean section, preeclampsia/eclampsia, gestational hypertension, induction of labor, gestational diabetes and postpartum hemorrhage compared with those without epilepsy. Regarding newborns outcomes, PWWE versus those without epilepsy had increased odds of preterm birth, small for gestational age, low birth weight (<2500 g), and congenital malformations, fetal distress. The odds of operative vaginal delivery, newborn mortality, and Apgar (≤ 7) were similar between PWWE and healthy women. CONCLUSION Pregnant women affected by epilepsy encounter a higher risk of adverse obstetric outcomes and fetal complications. Therefore, it is crucial to develop appropriate prevention and intervention strategies prior to or during pregnancy to minimize the negative impacts of epilepsy on maternal and fetal health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huimin Kuang
- Department of Neurology, First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Yixun Li
- Department of Radiology, Guangxi International Zhuang Medical Hospital, Nanning, China
| | - Yuling Lu
- Department of Neurology, First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Lin Zhang
- Department of Neurology, First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Lei Wei
- Department of Neurology, First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Yuan Wu
- Department of Neurology, First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
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Yamamoto Y, Akita N, Nogimoto H, Suzuki W, Imai K, Takahashi Y, Kagawa Y. Changes in Perampanel Pharmacokinetics and Cytochrome P450 3A4 Activity Before, During, and After Pregnancy. Ther Drug Monit 2024; 46:548-551. [PMID: 38531811 DOI: 10.1097/ftd.0000000000001195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
ABSTRACT This study evaluated perampanel pharmacokinetics and cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) activity, assessed using the level of 4β-hydroxycholesterol (4β-OHC) as an endogenous biomarker of CYP3A4, before, during, and after pregnancy in a woman with epilepsy and compared these measurements with those from a control group of nonpregnant women with epilepsy. A 21-year-old pregnant woman was being treated with perampanel (serum concentration: 1120 ng/mL), lacosamide, and lamotrigine. After the first trimester, the lamotrigine concentration decreased markedly; however, the perampanel concentration remained almost unchanged (range, 1130-1320 ng/mL). Similarly, serum 4β-OHC levels did not change during pregnancy (before pregnancy, 78.2 ng/mL; during pregnancy, 62.2-83.2 ng/mL). To compare these measurements with those in nonpregnant women, we enrolled 27 nonpregnant women with epilepsy (age range, 16-40 years). In the control patients, we found a strong negative correlation between the concentration-to-dose ratio of perampanel and the 4β-OHC level ( r = -0.78, P < 0.001). As there was no significant change in CYP3A4 activity, we concluded that the serum perampanel concentration did not change significantly before, during, or after pregnancy. More patients need to be studied to confirm these early results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshiaki Yamamoto
- Department of Clinical Pharmaceutics, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Shizuoka, Shizuoka, Japan
- Department of Clinical Research, NHO, National Epilepsy Center, Shizuoka Institute of Epilepsy and Neurological Disorders, Shizuoka, Japan; and
| | - Naoto Akita
- Department of Clinical Pharmaceutics, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Shizuoka, Shizuoka, Japan
| | - Hiroki Nogimoto
- Department of Clinical Pharmaceutics, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Shizuoka, Shizuoka, Japan
| | - Wakana Suzuki
- Department of Clinical Pharmaceutics, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Shizuoka, Shizuoka, Japan
| | - Katsumi Imai
- Department of Clinical Research, NHO, National Epilepsy Center, Shizuoka Institute of Epilepsy and Neurological Disorders, Shizuoka, Japan; and
| | - Yukitoshi Takahashi
- Department of Clinical Pharmaceutics, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Shizuoka, Shizuoka, Japan
- Department of Clinical Research, NHO, National Epilepsy Center, Shizuoka Institute of Epilepsy and Neurological Disorders, Shizuoka, Japan; and
| | - Yoshiyuki Kagawa
- Department of Clinical Pharmaceutics, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Shizuoka, Shizuoka, Japan
- Laboratory of Clinical Pharmacokinetics and Drug Safety, Shizuoka General Hospital, Shizuoka, Japan
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Forbes H, Madley-Dowd P, Ahlqvist V, Campbell J, Davies NM, Liebling R, Lyall K, Newschaffer C, Rast J, Tomson T, Zhong C, Magnusson C, Rai D, Lee BK. First-trimester use of antiseizure medications and the risk of miscarriage: a population-based cohort study. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 2024; 95:693-703. [PMID: 38777577 PMCID: PMC11287565 DOI: 10.1136/jnnp-2023-333149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/27/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Antiseizure medications (ASMs) during the first trimester of pregnancy have been associated with an increased risk of miscarriage. METHODS We carried out a population-based cohort study using routinely collected healthcare data from the UK, 1995-2018. Pregnancies were identified in the Clinical Practice Research Datalink and we estimated the HR of miscarriage associated with prescriptions of ASMs during the first trimester of pregnancy, using Cox regression, adjusting for potential confounders, including ASM indications. RESULTS ASMs were prescribed during the first trimester in 7832 (0.8%) of 1 023 787 included pregnancies. 14.5% of pregnancies with first-trimester exposure to ASMs ended in miscarriage, while 12.2% without ASM exposure in the first trimester ended in miscarriage; after adjustment, there was a 1.06-fold relative hazard of miscarriage (95% CI 1.00 to 1.13) in women with first-trimester ASM use. After restricting to women with specific ASM indications, this association was not evident in women with epilepsy (adjusted HR 0.98, 95% CI 0.89 to 1.08), but was observed in women with bipolar or other psychiatric conditions (1.08, 95% CI 1.00 to 1.16) although CIs overlapped. Compared with discontinuation of ASMs prior to pregnancy, there was no evidence of increased risk of miscarriage for first-trimester ASM use in women with bipolar or other psychiatric conditions (1.02, 95% CI 0.87 to 1.20). CONCLUSION We found no clear evidence to suggest that first-trimester ASM use increased the risk of miscarriage. Taken together, our analyses suggest that apparent associations between first-trimester ASM use and miscarriage may be the result of confounding by the presence of a bipolar disorder or associated unmeasured variables.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harriet Forbes
- Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- Centre for Academic Mental Health, Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Paul Madley-Dowd
- Centre for Academic Mental Health, Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- Medical Research Council Integrative Epidemiology Unit, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Viktor Ahlqvist
- Medical Research Council Integrative Epidemiology Unit, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- Department of Global Public Health, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jennifer Campbell
- Clinical Practice Research Datalink, Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency, London, UK
| | - Neil M Davies
- Medical Research Council Integrative Epidemiology Unit, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
- K.G. Jebsen Center for Genetic Epidemiology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Rachel Liebling
- Department of Obstetrics, University Hospitals Bristol and Weston, National Health Service England, Redditch, UK
| | - Kristen Lyall
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Drexel University School of Public Health, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Craig Newschaffer
- College of Health and Human Development, The Pennsylvania State University, Pennsylvania, Texas, USA
| | - Jessica Rast
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Drexel University School of Public Health, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- A.J. Drexel Autism Institute, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Torbjörn Tomson
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Caichen Zhong
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Drexel University School of Public Health, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Cecilia Magnusson
- Department of Global Public Health, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
- Centre for Epidemiology and Community Medicine, Region Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Dheeraj Rai
- Centre for Academic Mental Health, Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- Avon and Wiltshire Partnership NHS Mental Health Trust, Bristol, UK
| | - Brian K Lee
- Medical Research Council Integrative Epidemiology Unit, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- Department of Global Public Health, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Drexel University School of Public Health, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- A.J. Drexel Autism Institute, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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Li W, Yang X, Chen Q, Wang Z, Duan Y, Chen L. Monitoring levetiracetam concentration in saliva during pregnancy is stable and feasible. CNS Neurosci Ther 2024; 30:e14827. [PMID: 38992878 PMCID: PMC11239326 DOI: 10.1111/cns.14827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2023] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
AIMS This multicenter prospective cohort study (registration no. ChiCTR2000032089) aimed to investigate the relationship between saliva and plasma levetiracetam concentrations to determine whether saliva could be used for routine monitoring of levetiracetam during pregnancy. METHODS The slot concentrations of levetiracetam in simultaneously obtained saliva and plasma samples were measured using UPLC-MS/MS. The correlations between saliva and plasma levetiracetam concentrations and the dose-normalized concentrations were compared among pregnant women in different stages and nonpregnant control participants with epilepsy. RESULTS In total, 231 patients with 407 plasma and saliva sample pairs were enrolled from 39 centers. Linear relationships between salivary and plasma levetiracetam concentrations were reported in the enrolled population (r = 0.898, p < 0.001), including pregnant (r = 0.935, p < 0.001) and nonpregnant participants (r = 0.882, p < 0.001). Plasma concentrations were moderately higher than saliva concentrations, with ratios of saliva to plasma concentrations of 0.98 for nonpregnant women, 0.98, 1, and 1.12 for pregnant women during the first trimester, the second trimester, the and third trimester, respectively. The effective range of saliva levetiracetam concentration was found to be 9.98 μg/mL (lower limit) with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.937 (95% confidence intervals, 0.915-0.959), sensitivity of 88.9%, specificity of 86.8%, and p < 0.001, to 24.05 μg/mL (upper limit) with an AUC of 0.952 (0.914-0.99), sensitivity of 100%, specificity of 92.3%, and p = 0.007. CONCLUSION The saliva/plasma concentration ratio of levetiracetam remains constant during pregnancy and is similar to that in non-pregnant individuals. Monitoring levetiracetam concentration in saliva during pregnancy should be widely promoted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanling Li
- Department of Neurology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Ximeng Yang
- Department of Neurology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Qian Chen
- Center of Biostatistics, Design, Measurement and Evaluation, Department of Clinical Research Management, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Zhenlei Wang
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Clinical Research and Evaluation of Innovative Drug, Clinical Trial Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yifei Duan
- Department of Neurology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Lei Chen
- Department of Neurology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Department of Clinical Research Management, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
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Mesraoua B, Brigo F, Lattanzi S, Perucca E, Ali M, Asadi-Pooya AA. Safe delivery, perinatal outcomes and breastfeeding in women with epilepsy. Epilepsy Behav 2024; 156:109827. [PMID: 38759429 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2024.109827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2024] [Revised: 05/04/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024]
Abstract
Safe delivery and optimal peripartum and postpartum care in women with epilepsy (WWE) is a major concern which has received limited attention in recent years. A diagnosis of epilepsy per se is not an indication for a planned cesarean section or induction of labor, even though epidemiological studies indicate that cesarean delivery is more common among WWE compared to the general population. Pregnancy in WWE is associated with an increased risk of obstetrical complications and increased perinatal morbidity and mortality, and these risks may be greater among WWE taking ASMs. Wherever feasible, pregnant WWE should be directed to specialist care. Risk minimization includes, when appropriate, dose adjustment to compensate for pregnancy-related changes in the pharmacokinetics of some ASMs. With respect to postpartum management, WWE should be advised that the benefits of breastfeeding outweigh the small risk of adverse drug reactions in the infant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boulenouar Mesraoua
- Neurosciences Department, Hamad Medical Corporation and Weill Cornell Medical College, Doha, Qatar.
| | - Francesco Brigo
- Research Area Innovation, Research and Teaching Service (SABES- ASDAA), Bolzano-Bozen, Italy.
| | - Simona Lattanzi
- Neurological Clinic, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Marche Polytechnic University, Ancona, Italy.
| | - Emilio Perucca
- Department of Medicine (Austin Health), University of Melbourne, and Department of Neuroscience, School of Translational Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Musab Ali
- Neurosciences Department, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar.
| | - Ali A Asadi-Pooya
- Epilepsy Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran; Jefferson Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Department of Neurology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
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6
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Pegg EJ, Bromley R, Mirza F, Campbell E. Preconception counselling in women with epilepsy. Pract Neurol 2024:pn-2023-003902. [PMID: 38937091 DOI: 10.1136/pn-2023-003902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
Pregnancy and the postpartum period are potentially high-risk periods for women with epilepsy and their babies. All women with epilepsy should have the opportunity for preconception counselling with the aim of reducing risk, optimising outcomes for the potentially developing fetus and enabling informed decision-making. This article provides an evidence-based framework for preconception counselling discussion, including the review of diagnosis and of current antiseizure medication, the risk to the fetus in relation to antiseizure medication and maternal seizures, maternal morbidity, SUDEP risk, folic acid supplements, contraception, breastfeeding and safety advice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily J Pegg
- Manchester Centre for Clinical Neurosciences, Salford Royal Hospital, Salford, UK
- Division of Neuroscience, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Rebeccca Bromley
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Farhat Mirza
- Manchester Centre for Clinical Neurosciences, Salford Royal Hospital, Salford, UK
| | - Ellen Campbell
- Department of Neurology, Belfast Health and Social Care Trust, Belfast, UK
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Li D, Franco S, Pennell PB. The impact of pregnancy-related hormonal and physiological changes on antiseizure medications: expert perspective. Expert Rev Clin Pharmacol 2024:1-9. [PMID: 38748860 DOI: 10.1080/17512433.2024.2356617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Epilepsy is a disorder of recurrent, unprovoked seizures affecting approximately 15 million individuals of childbearing potential worldwide. Patients with epilepsy rely on regular daily therapy with antiseizure medications (ASMs). Furthermore, ASMs are also prescribed for other neuropsychiatric indications (e.g. bipolar disorder, pain, migraines) with over 2% of the pregnancies in the United States involving prenatal exposure to ASMs. AREAS COVERED ASM concentrations are affected by hormonal and physiological changes in pregnancy, including increases in renal and hepatic blood flow, decreased protein binding, and changes in enzyme activity. Clearance changes typically reverse within a few weeks after delivery. During pregnancy, many ASMs, such as lamotrigine, levetiracetam, and oxcarbazepine, should have serum concentrations monitored and doses increased to maintain the individualized target range for seizure control. ASMs metabolized via glucuronidation, primarily lamotrigine, undergo marked increases in clearance throughout pregnancy, requiring about 3-fold the pre-pregnancy daily dose by delivery. Postpartum, ASM doses are usually decreased over several weeks to prevent drug toxicity. EXPERT OPINION In the future, the development of a physiologically-based pharmacokinetic model for various ASMs may enable empiric dose adjustments in pregnancy without the difficulties of frequent therapeutic drug monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denise Li
- Department of Neurology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Susannah Franco
- Department of Pharmacy, State University of New York Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, NY, USA
| | - Page B Pennell
- Department of Neurology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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Duan Y, Yang X, Zhang M, Qi X, Jin Y, Wang Z, Chen L. Adaptive Dosage Strategy of Levetiracetam in Chinese Epileptic Patients: Focus on Pregnant Women. J Pharm Sci 2024; 113:1385-1394. [PMID: 38176454 DOI: 10.1016/j.xphs.2023.12.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Revised: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
There is presently no efficient dose individualization strategy for the use of antiseizure medications in epileptic pregnant patients. This study aimed to develop a population pharmacokinetics model for levetiracetam and propose a tailored adaptive individualized dosage strategy for epileptic pregnant patients. A total of 322 levetiracetam plasma concentrations from 238 patients with epilepsy were included, including 216 women with epilepsy (20.83% of whom were pregnant). The levetiracetam plasma concentration was measured using a validated ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry assay, and the data were modeled using a nonlinear mixed-effects model. The resultant model served as the basis for simulating the dosage adjustment strategy. A one-compartment model with first-order elimination best described the pharmacokinetic data of levetiracetam. The apparent clearance (CL/F) was 3.43 L/h (95% CI 3.30-3.56) and the apparent volume of distribution was 43.7 L (95% CI 40.4-47.0) for a typical individual of 57.2 kg. Pregnancy and body weight were found to be significant covariates of CL/F of levetiracetam. The recommended regimen of levetiracetam could be predicted by the population pharmacokinetic model based on body weight, gestational age, and the daily dose of levetiracetam taken before pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifei Duan
- Department of Neurology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University
| | - Ximeng Yang
- Department of Neurology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University
| | - Mengyu Zhang
- Department of Neurology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University; Clinical Trial Center, NMPA Key Laboratory for Clinical Research and Evaluation of Innovative Drug, West China Hospital, Sichuan University
| | - Xiaohui Qi
- Department of Neurology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University; Clinical Trial Center, NMPA Key Laboratory for Clinical Research and Evaluation of Innovative Drug, West China Hospital, Sichuan University
| | - Ying Jin
- Department of Neurology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University; Clinical Trial Center, NMPA Key Laboratory for Clinical Research and Evaluation of Innovative Drug, West China Hospital, Sichuan University
| | - Zhenlei Wang
- Department of Neurology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University; Clinical Trial Center, NMPA Key Laboratory for Clinical Research and Evaluation of Innovative Drug, West China Hospital, Sichuan University.
| | - Lei Chen
- Department of Neurology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University.
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Fallik N, Trakhtenbroit I, Fahoum F, Goldstein L. Therapeutic drug monitoring in pregnancy: Levetiracetam. Epilepsia 2024; 65:1285-1293. [PMID: 38400747 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/26/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Levetiracetam (LEV) is an antiseizure medication that is mainly excreted by the kidneys. Due to its low teratogenic risk, LEV is frequently prescribed for women with epilepsy (WWE). Physiological changes during gestation affect the pharmacokinetic characteristics of LEV. The goal of our study was to characterize the changes in LEV clearance during pregnancy and the postpartum period, to better plan an LEV dosing paradigm for pregnant women. METHODS This retrospective observational study incorporated a cohort of women who were followed up at the epilepsy in pregnancy clinic at Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center during the years 2020-2023. Individualized target concentrations of LEV and an empirical postpartum taper were used for seizure control and to reduce toxicity likelihood. Patient visits took place every 1-2 months and included a review of medication dosage, trough LEV blood levels, week of gestation and LEV dose at the time of level measurement, and seizure diaries. Total LEV concentration/dose was calculated based on LEV levels and dose as an estimation of LEV clearance. RESULTS A total of 263 samples were collected from 38 pregnant patients. We observed a decrease in LEV concentration/dose (C/D) as the pregnancy progressed, followed by an abrupt postpartum increase. Compared to the 3rd trimester, the most significant C/D decrease was observed at the 1st trimester (slope = .85), with no significant change in the 2nd trimester (slope = .11). A significant increase in C/D occurred postpartum (slope = 5.23). LEV dose was gradually increased by 75% during pregnancy compared to preconception. Average serum levels (μg/mL) decreased during pregnancy. During the postpartum period, serum levels increased, whereas the LEV dose was decreased by 24%, compared to the 3rd trimester. SIGNIFICANCE LEV serum level monitoring is essential for WWE prior to and during pregnancy as well as postpartum. Our data contribute to determining a rational treatment and dosing paradigm for LEV use during both pregnancy and the postpartum period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noam Fallik
- Electroencephalogram and Epilepsy Unit, Neurology Department, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Ilia Trakhtenbroit
- Electroencephalogram and Epilepsy Unit, Neurology Department, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Neurology Department, Barzilai University Medical Center, Ashkelon, Israel
| | - Firas Fahoum
- Electroencephalogram and Epilepsy Unit, Neurology Department, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Lilach Goldstein
- Electroencephalogram and Epilepsy Unit, Neurology Department, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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Gaus V, Ilyas-Feldmann M, Schmitz B. [Epilepsy and pregnancy]. DER NERVENARZT 2024; 95:335-341. [PMID: 38451327 DOI: 10.1007/s00115-024-01626-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Regarding treatment of women of childbearing potential with epilepsy, several aspects of family planning and desire to have children have to be taken into account. OBJECTIVE Overview of current data on mutual implications of epileptic seizures, antiseizure medication (ASM), pregnancy and child development. METHOD Review of the current literature, discussion and presentation of resulting treatment recommendations. RESULTS Many ASMs bear the potential for clinically relevant interactions with both contraceptives and altered concentrations of sexual hormones and modified pharmacokinetics during pregnancy. All ASMs show an increased risk for congenital malformations; however, due to seizure-related risks for the mother and child effective ASM treatment during pregnancy is crucial. CONCLUSION When considering the special aspects of consultation and treatment of women of childbearing potential with epilepsy most pregnancies are uncomplicated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Verena Gaus
- Epilepsie-Zentrum Berlin-Brandenburg, Klinik und Hochschulambulanz für Neurologie, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353, Berlin, Deutschland.
| | - Maria Ilyas-Feldmann
- Epilepsie-Zentrum Berlin-Brandenburg, Klinik und Hochschulambulanz für Neurologie, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353, Berlin, Deutschland
| | - Bettina Schmitz
- Klinik für Neurologie und Zentrum für Epilepsie, Vivantes Humboldt Klinikum Berlin, Berlin, Deutschland
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Goo Y, der Nederlanden AM, Bleasel A, Alffenaar JW, Kim HY. Dose Monitoring of Lamotrigine Monotherapy in Pregnancy: Are Pregnant Women with Epilepsy Currently Optimally Managed? A Systematic Review. Ther Drug Monit 2024; 46:181-194. [PMID: 38366344 DOI: 10.1097/ftd.0000000000001186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lamotrigine monotherapy is the first-line treatment for epilepsy in pregnant women. However, altered pharmacokinetics during pregnancy can lead to suboptimal drug levels and increased seizure risk. This systematic review aimed to evaluate current therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) strategies for lamotrigine monotherapy in pregnant women with epilepsy and provide guidance for monitoring and dose adjustments. METHODS A systematic search was performed using the Ovid-MEDLINE, Ovid-EMBASE, and Ovid-Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases. Studies were included if data on lamotrigine dosing, concentration, TDM strategies, efficacy, or safety were available. RESULTS Eleven studies were analyzed, revealing heterogeneity in outcomes with selective reporting of TDM strategies; however, clear similarities were observed. Blood samples were collected every 1-3 months during pregnancy to maintain prepregnancy baseline drug levels. Lamotrigine's apparent and relative clearance increased across trimesters, particularly in the second and third trimesters, coinciding with a period of increased seizure frequency and required dose adjustments. Details on dose adjustments were limited. Some studies have proposed using the threshold of the ratio to the target concentration to predict increased seizure risk. No distinct association was observed between adverse newborn outcomes and lamotrigine dose or serum concentration. Few maternal adverse effects have been reported after delivery, confirming the necessity of empirical postpartum tapering. CONCLUSIONS Further studies are required to establish evidence-based standardized protocols encompassing all aspects of TDM. Early interventions, such as empirical dose increases during pregnancy and postpartum tapering, and routine monitoring from preconception to the postpartum period may enhance seizure control, reducing the risk of breakthrough seizures for the mother and unborn child.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yeonkyung Goo
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | | | - Andrew Bleasel
- Neurology Department, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, Australia
- Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia ; and
| | - Jan-Willem Alffenaar
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Westmead Hospital, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Hannah Yejin Kim
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Westmead Hospital, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
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12
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Decker BM, Clary HM, Holmes MG, Al-Faraj AO, Esmaeili B, Waldman G, Becker DA, Johnson J, Voinescu PE, Gerard EE. Letter regarding "Seizure control in women with epilepsy undergoing assisted reproductive technology". Epilepsia 2024; 65:1141-1144. [PMID: 38098189 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 03/01/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Barbara M Decker
- Department of Neurological Sciences, University of Vermont Medical Center, Burlington, Vermont, USA
| | - Heidi Munger Clary
- Department of Neurology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Manisha G Holmes
- Department of Neurology, Westchester Medical Center Health Network, Valhalla, New York, USA
| | - Abrar O Al-Faraj
- Department of Neurology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Behnaz Esmaeili
- Department of Neurology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Genna Waldman
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Danielle A Becker
- Department of Neurology, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Julia Johnson
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of Vermont Medical Center, Burlington, Vermont, USA
| | - Paula E Voinescu
- Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Elizabeth E Gerard
- Department of Neurology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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13
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Chen Y, Ke M, Fang W, Jiang Y, Lin R, Wu W, Huang P, Lin C. Physiologically based pharmacokinetic modeling to predict maternal pharmacokinetics and fetal carbamazepine exposure during pregnancy. Eur J Pharm Sci 2024; 194:106707. [PMID: 38244810 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejps.2024.106707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
Carbamazepine is an antiepileptic drug commonly used in pregnant women, during which the physiological changes may affect its efficacy. The aim of this study was to establish a physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model of carbamazepine and its active metabolite carbamazepine-10,11-epoxide, and simulate maternal and fetal pharmacokinetic changes of carbamazepine and carbamazepine-10,11-epoxide in different trimesters and propose dose adjustment. We established pregnancy PBPK models for carbamazepine and carbamazepine-10,11-epoxide in PK-Sim® and Mobi® and validated the models with observed data from clinical reports. The placental transfer parameters obtained using different methods were also imported into the model and compared with the observed data to establish and validate fetal pharmacokinetic curves. The simulated results showed that mean steady-state trough plasma concentration of carbamazepine decreased by 27, 43.1, and 52 % during the first, second, and third trimesters, respectively. Therefore, to achieve an optimum therapeutic concentration, administering at least 1.4, 1.8, and 2.1 times the baseline dose of carbamazepine in the first, second, and third trimesters, respectively can be used as a dose reference. In conclusion, this study established and validated a pregnancy PBPK model of carbamazepine and carbamazepine-10,11-epoxide to assess exposure in pregnant women and fetuses, which provided a reference for the dosage adjustment of carbamazepine during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuying Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, 20 Cha Zhong M. Rd, Fuzhou 350005, People's Republic of China; Department of Pharmacy, National Regional Medical Center, Binhai Campus of the First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Meng Ke
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, 20 Cha Zhong M. Rd, Fuzhou 350005, People's Republic of China; Department of Pharmacy, National Regional Medical Center, Binhai Campus of the First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Weipeng Fang
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, 20 Cha Zhong M. Rd, Fuzhou 350005, People's Republic of China; Department of Pharmacy, National Regional Medical Center, Binhai Campus of the First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Yaojie Jiang
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, 20 Cha Zhong M. Rd, Fuzhou 350005, People's Republic of China; Department of Pharmacy, National Regional Medical Center, Binhai Campus of the First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Rongfang Lin
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, 20 Cha Zhong M. Rd, Fuzhou 350005, People's Republic of China; Department of Pharmacy, National Regional Medical Center, Binhai Campus of the First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Wanhong Wu
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, 20 Cha Zhong M. Rd, Fuzhou 350005, People's Republic of China; Department of Pharmacy, National Regional Medical Center, Binhai Campus of the First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Pinfang Huang
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, 20 Cha Zhong M. Rd, Fuzhou 350005, People's Republic of China; Department of Pharmacy, National Regional Medical Center, Binhai Campus of the First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Cuihong Lin
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, 20 Cha Zhong M. Rd, Fuzhou 350005, People's Republic of China; Department of Pharmacy, National Regional Medical Center, Binhai Campus of the First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, People's Republic of China.
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14
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Alshakhouri M, Sharpe C, Bergin P, Sumner RL. Female sex steroids and epilepsy: Part 1. A review of reciprocal changes in reproductive systems, cycles, and seizures. Epilepsia 2024; 65:556-568. [PMID: 38036939 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
Seizures, antiseizure medications, and the reproductive systems are reciprocally entwined. In Section 2 of this review, we outline how seizures may affect the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, thereby altering sex steroids, and changes in sex steroids across the menstrual cycle and changes in pharmacokinetics during pregnancy may alter seizure susceptibility. The literature indicates that females with epilepsy experience increased rates of menstrual disturbances and reproductive endocrine disorders. The latter include polycystic ovary syndrome, especially for females on valproate. Studies of fertility have yielded mixed results. We aim to summarize and attempt to detangle the existing knowledge on these reciprocal interactions. The menstrual cycle causes changes in seizure intensity and frequency for many females. When this occurs perimenstrually, during ovulation, or in association with an inadequate luteal phase, it is termed catamenial epilepsy. There is a clear biophysiological rationale for how the key female reproductive neurosteroids interact with the brain to alter the seizure threshold, and Section 3 outlines this important relationship. Critically, what remains unknown is the specific pathophysiology of catamenial epilepsy that describes why not all females are affected. There is a need for mechanism-focused investigations in humans to uncover the complexity of the relationship between reproductive hormones, menstrual cycles, and the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Cynthia Sharpe
- Department of Paediatric Neurology, Starship Children's Health, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Peter Bergin
- Neurology Auckland Hospital, Te Whatu Ora, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Rachael L Sumner
- School of Pharmacy, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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15
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Swor D, Juneja P, Constantine C, Mann C, Rosenow F, LaRoche S. Management of status epilepticus in pregnancy: a clinician survey. Neurol Res Pract 2024; 6:3. [PMID: 38233889 PMCID: PMC10795404 DOI: 10.1186/s42466-023-00295-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Status epilepticus in pregnancy (SEP) is rare and life-threatening for both mother and fetus. There are well-established guidelines for the management of women with epilepsy during pregnancy; however, there is little evidence guiding the management of SEP, leading to uncertainty among treating physicians. Therefore, this survey aims to investigate the real-world practices of physicians treating SEP to explore management approaches for improvements in care. METHODS An anonymous, electronic survey was created and distributed to neurointensivists and neurologists between September and December 2021. RESULTS One hundred physicians initiated the survey and 95 completed it in full: 87 (87%, 87/100) identified neurology as their primary specialty, 31 had subspecialty training in neurocritical care, and 48 had subspecialty training in epilepsy and/or clinical neurophysiology. Over half of the survey respondents (67%, 67/100) reported having participated in the management of SEP, with 48.9% (49/98) having done so in the past year. Most survey respondents (73%, 73/100) reported that their management approach to SEP is different than that of non-pregnant patients. Survey respondents were more likely to involve epilepsy consultants when treating SEP (58.5%, 58/99) and the vast majority involved Obstetrics/Maternal Fetal Medicine consultants (90.8%, 89/98). Survey respondents showed a clear preference for levetiracetam (89.7%, 87/97) in the treatment of benzodiazepine refractory status epilepticus followed by lacosamide (61%, 60/98) if an additional second line agent was needed. Valproate and phenobarbital were unlikely to be used. There was less agreement for the management of refractory and super-refractory SEP. CONCLUSIONS Levetiracetam is the most frequently used anti-seizure medication (ASM) for benzodiazepine-refractory SEP. Survey participants tended to manage SEP differently than in non-pregnant patients including greater involvement of interdisciplinary teams as well as avoidance of ASMs associated with known teratogenicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dionne Swor
- Department of Neurology, University of Toledo, Toledo, USA.
| | - Pallavi Juneja
- Department of Neurology, Columbia University, New York, USA
| | | | - Catrin Mann
- Department of Neurology, Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Felix Rosenow
- Department of Neurology, Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Suzette LaRoche
- Department of Neurology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, USA
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16
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Madley-Dowd P, Rast J, Ahlqvist VH, Zhong C, Martin FZ, Davies NM, Lyall K, Newschaffer C, Tomson T, Magnusson C, Rai D, Lee BK, Forbes H. Trends and patterns of antiseizure medication prescribing during pregnancy between 1995 and 2018 in the United Kingdom: A cohort study. BJOG 2024; 131:15-25. [PMID: 37340193 PMCID: PMC10730765 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.17573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Revised: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/22/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine antiseizure medication (ASM) prescription during pregnancy. DESIGN Population-based drug utilisation study. SETTING UK primary and secondary care data, 1995-2018, from the Clinical Practice Research Datalink GOLD version. POPULATION OR SAMPLE 752 112 completed pregnancies among women registered for a minimum of 12 months with an 'up to standard' general practice prior to the estimated start of pregnancy and for the duration of their pregnancy. METHODS We described ASM prescription across the study period, overall and by ASM indication, examined patterns of prescription during pregnancy including continuous prescription and discontinuation, and used logistic regression to investigate factors associated with those ASM prescription patterns. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Prescription of ASMs during pregnancy and discontinuation of ASMs before and during pregnancy. RESULTS ASM prescription during pregnancy increased from 0.6% of pregnancies in 1995 to 1.6% in 2018, driven largely by an increase in women with indications other than epilepsy. Epilepsy was an indication for 62.5% of pregnancies with an ASM prescription and non-epilepsy indications were present for 66.6%. Continuous prescription of ASMs during pregnancy was more common in women with epilepsy (64.3%) than in women with other indications (25.3%). Switching ASMs was infrequent (0.8% of ASM users). Factors associated with discontinuation included age ≥35, higher social deprivation, more frequent contact with the GP and being prescribed antidepressants or antipsychotics. CONCLUSIONS ASM prescription during pregnancy increased between 1995 and 2018 in the UK. Patterns of prescription around the pregnancy period vary by indication and are associated with several maternal characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Madley-Dowd
- - Centre for Academic Mental Health, Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
- - Medical Research Council Integrative Epidemiology Unit, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, BS8 2BN, United Kingdom
| | - Jessica Rast
- - A.J. Drexel Autism Institute, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- - Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Drexel University Dornsife School of Public Health, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Viktor H. Ahlqvist
- - Medical Research Council Integrative Epidemiology Unit, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, BS8 2BN, United Kingdom
- - Department of Global Public Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Caichen Zhong
- - A.J. Drexel Autism Institute, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Florence Z. Martin
- - Centre for Academic Mental Health, Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
- - Medical Research Council Integrative Epidemiology Unit, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, BS8 2BN, United Kingdom
| | - Neil M. Davies
- - Medical Research Council Integrative Epidemiology Unit, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, BS8 2BN, United Kingdom
- - K.G. Jebsen Center for Genetic Epidemiology, Department of Public Health and Nursing, NTNU, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Norway
- - Division of Psychiatry, University College London, Maple House, 149 Tottenham Court Rd, London W1T 7NF
- - Department of Statistical Sciences, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Kristen Lyall
- - Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Drexel University Dornsife School of Public Health, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Craig Newschaffer
- - College of Health and Human Development, The Pennsylvania State University, USA
| | - Torbjörn Tomson
- - Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Cecilia Magnusson
- - Department of Global Public Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- - Centre for Epidemiology and Community Medicine, Region Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Dheeraj Rai
- - Centre for Academic Mental Health, Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
- - Medical Research Council Integrative Epidemiology Unit, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, BS8 2BN, United Kingdom
- - NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
- - Avon and Wiltshire Partnership NHS Mental Health Trust, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Brian K. Lee
- - A.J. Drexel Autism Institute, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- - Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Drexel University Dornsife School of Public Health, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- - Department of Global Public Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Harriet Forbes
- - Centre for Academic Mental Health, Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
- - Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
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17
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Huynh ATM, Voinescu PE, Bui E. When Pregnancy Becomes an Inclusion Criterion in Neuroscience Research. JAMA Neurol 2024; 81:7-8. [PMID: 38010709 DOI: 10.1001/jamaneurol.2023.4506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
This Viewpoint discusses the inclusion of pregnant patients in clinical trials for antiseizure medication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Tieu-Mi Huynh
- Department of Medicine and Department of Obstetrical Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Paula Emanuela Voinescu
- Department of Neurology, Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts
- Women's Epilepsy Program, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Esther Bui
- Neurology, Epilepsy & EEG, Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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18
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Fantaneanu TA, Thornton HF, Zhang T, Bercovici E, Hrazdil C, Ikeda KM, Kassiri J, Suller Marti A, Pana R, Rezazadeh A, Kobayashi E, Bui E. Real-world practices for the care of women with epilepsy during pregnancy: A Canadian perspective. Epilepsy Behav 2023; 148:109468. [PMID: 37857032 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2023.109468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Approximately 150,000 Canadian women live with epilepsy, a population that presents with unique challenges. Our objective was to capture demographic and real-world practice characteristics of Canadian healthcare professionals providing care for women with epilepsy (WWE) with specific focus on reproductive considerations to identify potential gaps in knowledge and care. METHODS A questionnaire developed by the Canadian League Against Epilepsy WWE workgroup was distributed to Canadian healthcare professionals from February 2021 to October 2022 to capture participant demographic characteristics and practice patterns in key areas of the reproductive cycle in WWE. RESULTS A total of 156 participants completed the questionnaire, most being physicians (81.4%), epilepsy specialists (69.0%), and those who cared for adult patients (86.5%), with a significant proportion based at an academic center (65.4%). The majority of participants counselled on folic acid supplementation (89.7%). Participants selected lamotrigine and levetiracetam most frequently for either focal or generalized epilepsies during pregnancy. Additionally, 85.9% performed therapeutic drug monitoring during pregnancy. Almost all practitioners always or often counseled WWE on valproic acid on the benefits of switching to a less teratogenic medication (96.2%). Some geographic variability in practice patterns was noted with valproic acid being one of the top three medications selected for patients with generalized epilepsies in Western regions, although participants in Eastern regions had brivaracetam more commonly included as one of their top three agents for this population. SIGNIFICANCE This is the first report of real-world Canadian practices in epilepsy care for women in pregnancy. Overall, our study reports that Canadian practice patterns conform well to current evidence and best-practice guidelines. Important variations in antiseizure medication selection across different regions were identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tadeu A Fantaneanu
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada; Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, The Ottawa Hospital, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Hayley F Thornton
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
| | - Tinghua Zhang
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, The Ottawa Hospital, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Eduard Bercovici
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Chantelle Hrazdil
- Division of Neurology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver Coastal Health, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
| | - Kristin M Ikeda
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Nova Scotia Health, Canada.
| | - Janani Kassiri
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
| | - Ana Suller Marti
- Department of Clinical Neurological Sciences, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada; Department of Pediatrics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Raluca Pana
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
| | - Arezoo Rezazadeh
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada; Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, The Ottawa Hospital, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Eliane Kobayashi
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
| | - Esther Bui
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
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Tomson T, Sha L, Chen L. Management of epilepsy in pregnancy: What we still need to learn. Epilepsy Behav Rep 2023; 24:100624. [PMID: 37867487 PMCID: PMC10585340 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebr.2023.100624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Revised: 09/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Safe pregnancies have been a major concern for women with epilepsy. With more than 50 years of research, we have learned that antiseizure medications (ASMs) differ in their teratogenic risk. Valproate is associated with greater risks for malformations and adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes than other ASMs. Furthermore, seizure control is important for maternal health in pregnancy and it can be affected by a decline in serum concentrations of many ASMs during pregnancy. However, significant knowledge gaps remain. First, there is insufficient evidence about the relative teratogenic risks of most newer generation ASMs, as well as diverse ASM combinations. Similarly, information on gestation-induced changes in maternal serum levels and transfer into breastmilk is inadequate for the majority of the newer ASMs. Further, the optimal dose of folate supplementation remains unknown for women with epilepsy. Finally, most of previous studies on epilepsy and pregnancy come from Europe or North America. Efforts should be made to include more countries in collaboration with existing prospective epilepsy and pregnancy studies to increase the cohort size while at the same time enhancing the generalizability of the results. Large countries, such as China, present great potential to shorten the time to obtain answers to important unsolved questions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Torbjörn Tomson
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Leihao Sha
- Department of Neurology, Joint Research Institution of Altitude Health, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan
| | - Lei Chen
- Department of Neurology, Joint Research Institution of Altitude Health, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan
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20
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Tomson T, Zelano J, Dang YL, Perucca P. The pharmacological treatment of epilepsy in adults. Epileptic Disord 2023; 25:649-669. [PMID: 37386690 DOI: 10.1002/epd2.20093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 06/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/24/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023]
Abstract
The pharmacological treatment of epilepsy entails several critical decisions that need to be based on an individual careful risk-benefit analysis. These include when to initiate treatment and with which antiseizure medication (ASM). With more than 25 ASMs on the market, physicians have opportunities to tailor the treatment to individual patients´ needs. ASM selection is primarily based on the patient's type of epilepsy and spectrum of ASM efficacy, but several other factors must be considered. These include age, sex, comorbidities, and concomitant medications to mention the most important. Individual susceptibility to adverse drug effects, ease of use, costs, and personal preferences should also be taken into account. Once an ASM has been selected, the next step is to decide on an individual target maintenance dose and a titration scheme to reach this dose. When the clinical circumstances permit, a slow titration is generally preferred since it is associated with improved tolerability. The maintenance dose is adjusted based on the clinical response aiming at the lowest effective dose. Therapeutic drug monitoring can be of value in efforts to establish the optimal dose. If the first monotherapy fails to control seizures without significant adverse effects, the next step will be to gradually switch to an alternative monotherapy, or sometimes to add another ASM. If an add-on is considered, combining ASMs with different modes of action is usually recommended. Misdiagnosis of epilepsy, non-adherence and suboptimal dosing are frequent causes of treatment failure and should be excluded before a patient is regarded as drug-resistant. Other treatment modalities, including epilepsy surgery, neuromodulation, and dietary therapies, should be considered for truly drug-resistant patients. After some years of seizure freedom, the question of ASM withdrawal often arises. Although successful in many, withdrawal is also associated with risks and the decision needs to be based on careful risk-benefit analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Torbjörn Tomson
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Johan Zelano
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, Gothenburg University, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Neurology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Wallenberg Center of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Gothenburg University, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Yew Li Dang
- Bladin-Berkovic Comprehensive Epilepsy Program, Austin Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Epilepsy Research Centre, Department of Medicine (Austin Health), The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Piero Perucca
- Bladin-Berkovic Comprehensive Epilepsy Program, Austin Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Epilepsy Research Centre, Department of Medicine (Austin Health), The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Neurology, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Neurology, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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21
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Hope OA, Harris KM. Management of epilepsy during pregnancy and lactation. BMJ 2023; 382:e074630. [PMID: 37684052 DOI: 10.1136/bmj-2022-074630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/10/2023]
Abstract
Epilepsy is a group of neurological diseases characterized by susceptibility to recurrent seizures. Antiseizure medications (ASMs) are the mainstay of treatment, but many antiseizure medications with variable safety profiles have been approved for use. For women with epilepsy in their childbearing years, the safety profile is important for them and their unborn children, because treatment is often required to protect them from seizures during pregnancy and lactation. Since no large randomized controlled trials have investigated safety in this subgroup of people with epilepsy, pregnancy registries, cohort and case-control studies from population registries, and a few large prospective cohort studies have played an important role. Valproate, in monotherapy and polytherapy, has been associated with elevated risk of major congenital malformations and neurodevelopmental disorders in children born to mothers who took it. Topiramate and phenobarbital are also associated with elevated risks of congenital malformations and neurodevelopmental disorders, though the risks are lower than those of valproate. Lamotrigine and levetiracetam are relatively safe. Insufficient data exist to reach strong conclusions about the newest antiseizure medications such as eslicarbazepine, perampanel, brivaracetam, cannabidiol, and cenobamate. Besides antiseizure medications, other treatments such as vagal nerve stimulation, responsive neurostimulation, and deep brain stimulation are likely safe. In general, breastfeeding does not appear to add any additional long term risks to the child. Creative ways of optimizing registry enrollment and data collection are needed to enhance patient safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omotola A Hope
- Houston Methodist Sugarland Neurology Associates, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Katherine Mj Harris
- Department of Neurology, McGovern Medical School at UTHealth, Houston, TX, USA
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22
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Liu C, Pace S, Bromley R, Dobson R. Exposure to medication for neurological disease in pregnancy - time to consider the long-term implications? EClinicalMedicine 2023; 63:102157. [PMID: 37662523 PMCID: PMC10474373 DOI: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2023.102157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
A range of long-term neurological conditions may be diagnosed in young adulthood. These conditions are generally not curable, and most people need to take ongoing treatment for symptom control and/or disease modification. When chronic diseases are diagnosed before people have completed their families, there is a need to balance the potential benefits of treatment for the mother against potential risk(s) to the fetus from exposure to medications during pregnancy. Whilst available data regarding short-term fetal outcomes following treatment exposures during pregnancy is rapidly increasing, information regarding longer-term outcomes is more limited. The association of fetal exposure to valproate with serious long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes has highlighted the importance of capturing and evaluating long-term data. In this review we examine available evidence around the long-term effects of treatments used for the most common long-term neurological conditions diagnosed in early adulthood, namely epilepsy, migraine and neuroinflammatory disorders. We draw from existing literature across a range of diseases and discuss strategies to improve future knowledge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Liu
- Preventive Neurology Unit, Wolfson Institute of Population Health, QMUL, UK
| | - Samuel Pace
- Department of Neurology, Royal London Hospital, Barts Health NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Rebecca Bromley
- Division of Neuroscience, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Biology and Health, University of Manchester, UK
- Royal Manchester Children's Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, UK
| | - Ruth Dobson
- Preventive Neurology Unit, Wolfson Institute of Population Health, QMUL, UK
- Department of Neurology, Royal London Hospital, Barts Health NHS Trust, London, UK
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23
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Freund B, Chen B, Kaplan PW, Johnson EL. Managing Antiseizure Medications in Pregnancy: Is Earlier and More Frequent Monitoring Better? Neurol Clin Pract 2023; 13:e200169. [PMID: 37223248 PMCID: PMC10202371 DOI: 10.1212/cpj.0000000000200169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Background and Objective Medication management in pregnant women with epilepsy (PWWE) poses challenges, and understanding the effects of metabolic changes on antiseizure medications (ASMs) is important in planning care for PWWE. The possible teratogenic effects and risks of poorly controlled seizures have to be weighed. There are data in the literature on clinical management of ASMs including the effects of drug levels on seizures and factors that predict seizure frequency, but timing and frequency of monitoring and dose adjustment paradigms have not been well studied. Methods This retrospective study was approved by the Institutional Review Board at Johns Hopkins University. We retrospectively identified adult PWWE evaluated during pregnancy at the Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center epilepsy clinic, between January 1, 2007, and January 1, 2021. We reviewed charts for information regarding demographics, medical and epilepsy history, medications, serum drug levels, and dosing paradigms. We assessed risk factors for breakthrough seizures with a focus on frequency and timing of laboratory testing. We calculated the dose-normalized concentration (DNC) for analysis with levetiracetam and lamotrigine, assessing changes in DNC over time by half trimesters, and analyzed DNC and effects on seizures in pregnancy. We also compared preemptive vs clinically based lamotrigine dose adjustments in managing epilepsy in pregnancy. Results A total of 45 pregnancies in 39 patients were included in this study, 8 generalized, 28 focal epilepsy, and 3 unclassified. 31 PWWE (36 pregnancies) were on lamotrigine and/or levetiracetam, and 14 of these pregnancies experienced breakthrough seizures, 77% in the first trimester. Seizures led to the diagnosis of pregnancy in 5 patients. The DNC for levetiracetam decreased significantly compared with prepregnancy levels by the second half of the first trimester and demonstrated variable but frequently significant or near significant reduction throughout pregnancy. DNC for lamotrigine decreased significantly in the first half of the first trimester and remained significant throughout pregnancy. Age of mother at conception, week of first ASM serum level and number of levels obtained during pregnancy, and epilepsy type were not associated with breakthrough/increase in seizures. The history of drug resistance (p = 0.038) was associated with a higher odds of seizures. In those on lamotrigine, preemptive dose adjustments demonstrated similar results regarding seizure control when compared with clinical-based or laboratory-based dose management (p = 0.531). Discussion This study demonstrates that frequency and timing of ASM level monitoring may not affect overall seizure outcomes during pregnancy in those on lamotrigine or levetiracetam. Furthermore, one can consider preemptive dose adjustments or a laboratory-based/clinical-based approach in managing lamotrigine as both seem safe and feasible. However, in those with drug-resistant epilepsy before pregnancy, earlier and closer monitoring is warranted given the risk of seizures early during pregnancy. Larger prospective studies are needed to confirm these results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brin Freund
- Department of Neurology (BF, BC), Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL; and Department of Neurology (PWK, ELJ), Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center, Baltimore, MD
| | - Baibing Chen
- Department of Neurology (BF, BC), Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL; and Department of Neurology (PWK, ELJ), Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center, Baltimore, MD
| | - Peter W Kaplan
- Department of Neurology (BF, BC), Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL; and Department of Neurology (PWK, ELJ), Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center, Baltimore, MD
| | - Emily L Johnson
- Department of Neurology (BF, BC), Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL; and Department of Neurology (PWK, ELJ), Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center, Baltimore, MD
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Johannessen Landmark C, Eyal S, Burns ML, Franco V, Johannessen SI. Pharmacological aspects of antiseizure medications: From basic mechanisms to clinical considerations of drug interactions and use of therapeutic drug monitoring. Epileptic Disord 2023; 25:454-471. [PMID: 37259844 DOI: 10.1002/epd2.20069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Revised: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Antiseizure medications (ASMs) are the cornerstone of treatment for patients with epilepsy. Several new ASMs have recently been introduced to the market, making it possible to better tailor the treatment of epilepsy, as well as other indications (psychiatry and pain disorders). For this group of drugs there are numerous pharmacological challenges, and updated knowledge on their pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic properties is, therefore, crucial for an optimal treatment outcome. This review focuses on educational approaches to the following learning outcomes as described by the International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE): To demonstrate knowledge of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, drug interactions with ASMs and with concomitant medications, and appropriate monitoring of ASM serum levels (therapeutic drug monitoring, TDM). Basic principles in pharmacology, pharmacokinetic variability, and clinically relevant approaches to manage drug interactions are discussed. Furthermore, recent improvements in analytical technology and sampling are described. Future directions point to the combined implementation of TDM with genetic panels for proper diagnosis, pharmacogenetic tests where relevant, and the use of biochemical markers that will all contribute to personalized treatment. These approaches are clinically relevant for an optimal treatment outcome with ASMs in various patient groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cecilie Johannessen Landmark
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Oslo Metropolitan University, Oslo, Norway
- The National Center for Epilepsy, Sandvika, Member of the ERN EpiCare, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Section for Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Sara Eyal
- Institute for Drug Research, Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Margrete Larsen Burns
- Section for Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Valentina Franco
- Department of Internal Medicine and Therapeutics, Clinical, and Experimental Pharmacology Unit, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Svein I Johannessen
- The National Center for Epilepsy, Sandvika, Member of the ERN EpiCare, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Section for Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
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25
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Wiznitzer M. Fetal exposure to antiseizure medications: reassurance and concerns. Lancet Neurol 2023; 22:648-649. [PMID: 37479365 DOI: 10.1016/s1474-4422(23)00252-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/23/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Max Wiznitzer
- Case Western Reserve University, School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA; UH Rainbow Babies & Children's Hospital, Cleveland, OH, USA.
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26
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Schmidt CT, Deligiannidis KM, Kittel-Schneider S, Frodl T, Spigset O, Paulzen M, Schoretsanitis G. Transfer of anticonvulsants and lithium into amniotic fluid, umbilical cord blood & breast milk: A systematic review & combined analysis. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2023; 124:110733. [PMID: 36805301 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2023.110733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2022] [Revised: 01/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Data on the ability of anticonvulsants and lithium to enter fetal and newborn circulation has become increasingly available; here we estimated penetration ratios in a series of matrices from combined samples of pregnant/breastfeeding women treated with anticonvulsants or lithium. METHODS We conducted a systematic literature search in PubMed/EMBASE for studies with concentrations of anticonvulsants/lithium from maternal blood, amniotic fluid, umbilical cord blood and/or breast milk. Penetration ratios were calculated by dividing the concentrations in amniotic fluid, umbilical cord plasma or breast milk by the maternal concentrations. When data from multiple studies were available, we calculated combined penetration ratios, weighting studies' mean by study size. RESULTS Ninety-one eligible studies for brivaracetam, carbamazepine, clonazepam, ethosuximide, gabapentin, lacosamide, lamotrigine, levetiracetam, lithium, oxcarbazepine, perampanel, phenobarbital, phenytoin, pregabalin, primidone, topiramate, valproate, vigabatrin and zonisamide were identified. For amniotic fluid, the highest penetration ratios were estimated for levetiracetam (mean 3.56, range 1.27-5.85, n = 2) and lowest for valproate (mean 0.11, range 0.02-1.02, n = 57). For umbilical cord plasma, oxcarbazepine had the highest ratio (mean 1.59, range 0.11-4.33, n = 12) with clonazepam having the lowest (mean 0.55, range 0.52-0.59, n = 2). For breast milk, the highest ratios were observed for oxcarbazepine (mean 3.75, range 0.5-7.0, n = 2), whereas the lowest were observed for valproate (mean 0.04, range 0.01-0.22, n = 121). DISCUSSION We observed substantial variability between anticonvulsants and lithium regarding their ability to enter fetal/newborn circulation. Assessing concentrations of anticonvulsants and lithium in maternal samples can provide a surrogate of fetal/infant exposure, although patterns of concentration-dependent effects for maternal/neonatal safety are lacking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Theresa Schmidt
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, RWTH Aachen University, JARA - Translational Brain Medicine, Aachen, Germany
| | - Kristina M Deligiannidis
- The Zucker Hillside Hospital, Psychiatry Research, Northwell Health, Glen Oaks, NY, USA; Department of Psychiatry at the Donald and Barbara Zucker, School of Medicine at Northwell/Hofstra, Hempstead, NY, USA; The Departments of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Molecular Medicine at the Zucker, School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY, USA
| | - Sarah Kittel-Schneider
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Thomas Frodl
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, RWTH Aachen University, JARA - Translational Brain Medicine, Aachen, Germany
| | - Olav Spigset
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, St Olav University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway; Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Michael Paulzen
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, RWTH Aachen University, JARA - Translational Brain Medicine, Aachen, Germany; Alexianer Hospital Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Georgios Schoretsanitis
- The Zucker Hillside Hospital, Psychiatry Research, Northwell Health, Glen Oaks, NY, USA; Department of Psychiatry at the Donald and Barbara Zucker, School of Medicine at Northwell/Hofstra, Hempstead, NY, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Hospital of Psychiatry, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
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27
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Chen X, Gong Y, Chen W. Advanced Temporally-Spatially Precise Technologies for On-Demand Neurological Disorder Intervention. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2207436. [PMID: 36929323 PMCID: PMC10190591 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202207436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Revised: 02/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Temporal-spatial precision has attracted increasing attention for the clinical intervention of neurological disorders (NDs) to mitigate adverse effects of traditional treatments and achieve point-of-care medicine. Inspiring steps forward in this field have been witnessed in recent years, giving the credit to multi-discipline efforts from neurobiology, bioengineering, chemical materials, artificial intelligence, and so on, exhibiting valuable clinical translation potential. In this review, the latest progress in advanced temporally-spatially precise clinical intervention is highlighted, including localized parenchyma drug delivery, precise neuromodulation, as well as biological signal detection to trigger closed-loop control. Their clinical potential in both central and peripheral nervous systems is illustrated meticulously related to typical diseases. The challenges relative to biosafety and scaled production as well as their future perspectives are also discussed in detail. Notably, these intelligent temporally-spatially precision intervention systems could lead the frontier in the near future, demonstrating significant clinical value to support billions of patients plagued with NDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiuli Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic MedicineTongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and Technology430030WuhanChina
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Drug Target Research and Pharmacodynamic EvaluationHuazhong University of Science and Technology430030WuhanChina
| | - Yusheng Gong
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic MedicineTongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and Technology430030WuhanChina
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Drug Target Research and Pharmacodynamic EvaluationHuazhong University of Science and Technology430030WuhanChina
| | - Wei Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic MedicineTongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and Technology430030WuhanChina
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Drug Target Research and Pharmacodynamic EvaluationHuazhong University of Science and Technology430030WuhanChina
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28
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Apostolakopoulou L, Bosque Varela P, Rossini F, O'Sullivan C, Löscher W, Kuchukhidze G, Trinka E. Intravenous topiramate for seizure emergencies - First in human case report. Epilepsy Behav 2023; 142:109158. [PMID: 37058860 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2023.109158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 04/16/2023]
Abstract
Topiramate (TPM) is widely used in focal and generalized epilepsies. It is commercially available as tablets and sprinkles capsules for oral treatment. Previous studies comparing intravenous (IV) to oral TPM in healthy adults showed more rapid pharmacodynamic effects in cases of IV administration. Despite promising findings, no clinical application in humans followed. We present a case of a pregnant woman with idiopathic generalized epilepsy who experienced a generalized tonic-clonic seizure in the third trimenon due to low TPM levels attributed to pregnancy followed by repeated prolonged absences. We applied a new meglumine-based solution (1%) of TPM (10 mg/ml) in two IV infusions of 200 mg each under EEG monitoring over a total duration of 1 hour. The infusion was well tolerated and led to a rapid increase in plasma TPM levels. A clinical as well as electroencephalographic improvement was documented within the first hours. To the best available knowledge, this is the first reported case where IV TPM was used therapeutically for seizure treatment in humans. It is also the first time that the new meglumine-based solution was used in a human with epilepsy. The advantages of IV route delivery and the solution's quick preparation, high tolerability, and low toxicity make it ideal for use in many clinical settings and high-care patients. IV TPM seems to be a reasonable adjunctive option for adults with seizures, previously stabilized on oral TPM, who need rapid plasma concentration boosting. Although our experience was successful in using injectable TPM in seizure emergencies, randomized controlled clinical trials are required to make recommendations for the use of IV TPM on patients with epilepsy. This paper was presented at the 8th London-Innsbruck Colloquium on Status Epilepticus and Acute Seizures held in September 2022 in Salzburg, Austria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loukia Apostolakopoulou
- First Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Eginition Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Greece; Department of Neurology, Christian Doppler University Hospital, Member of the European Reference Network EpiCARE, and Centre for Cognitive Neuroscience, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Pilar Bosque Varela
- Department of Neurology, Christian Doppler University Hospital, Member of the European Reference Network EpiCARE, and Centre for Cognitive Neuroscience, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria; Neuroscience Institute, Christian Doppler University Hospital, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Fabio Rossini
- Department of Neurology, Christian Doppler University Hospital, Member of the European Reference Network EpiCARE, and Centre for Cognitive Neuroscience, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Ciara O'Sullivan
- Department of Neurology, Christian Doppler University Hospital, Member of the European Reference Network EpiCARE, and Centre for Cognitive Neuroscience, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Wolfgang Löscher
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Pharmacy, University of Veterinary Medicine, Hannover, Germany; Center for Systems Neuroscience, Hannover, Germany
| | - Giorgi Kuchukhidze
- Department of Neurology, Christian Doppler University Hospital, Member of the European Reference Network EpiCARE, and Centre for Cognitive Neuroscience, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria; Neuroscience Institute, Christian Doppler University Hospital, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Eugen Trinka
- Department of Neurology, Christian Doppler University Hospital, Member of the European Reference Network EpiCARE, and Centre for Cognitive Neuroscience, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria; Neuroscience Institute, Christian Doppler University Hospital, Salzburg, Austria; Karl Landsteiner Institute for Neurorehabilitation and Space Neurology, Salzburg, Austria; Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria.
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29
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Celdran de Castro A, Nascimento FA, Beltran-Corbellini Á, Toledano R, Garcia-Morales I, Gil-Nagel A, Aledo-Serrano Á. Levetiracetam, from broad-spectrum use to precision prescription: A narrative review and expert opinion. Seizure 2023; 107:121-131. [PMID: 37023625 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2023.03.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 03/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 04/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Levetiracetam (LEV) is an antiseizure medication (ASM) whose mechanism of action involves the modulation of neurotransmitters release through binding to the synaptic vesicle glycoprotein 2A. It is a broad-spectrum ASM displaying favorable pharmacokinetic and tolerability profiles. Since its introduction in 1999, it has been widely prescribed, becoming the first-line treatment for numerous epilepsy syndromes and clinical scenarios. However, this might have resulted in overuse. Increasing evidence, including the recently published SANAD II trials, suggests that other ASMs are reasonable therapeutic options for generalized and focal epilepsies. Not infrequently, these ASMs show better safety and effectiveness profiles compared to LEV (partially due to the latter's well-known cognitive and behavioral adverse effects, present in up to 20% of patients). Moreover, it has been shown that the underlying etiology of epilepsy is significantly linked to ASMs response in particular scenarios, highlighting the importance of an etiology-based ASM choice. In the case of LEV, it has demonstrated an optimal effectiveness in Alzheimer's disease, Down syndrome, and PCDH19-related epilepsies whereas, in other etiologies such as malformations of cortical development, it may show negligible effects. This narrative review analyzes the current evidence related to the use of LEV for the treatment of seizures. Illustrative clinical scenarios and practical decision-making approaches are also addressed, therefore aiming to define a rational use of this ASM.
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30
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Darmawan KF, Panelli DM. Contemporary management of epilepsy in pregnancy. Curr Opin Obstet Gynecol 2023; 35:87-93. [PMID: 36912246 PMCID: PMC10023363 DOI: 10.1097/gco.0000000000000844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/14/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The number of reproductive aged people with epilepsy in the United States is increasing, making epilepsy during pregnancy more prevalent. Simultaneously, more people are using newer generations of antiseizure medications before, during and after pregnancy. Here, we review current evidence on contemporary management and outcomes of pregnancies among people with epilepsy. RECENT FINDINGS This review evaluates recent literature to summarize current practices in preconception counselling, contraception, antiseizure medications before, during and after pregnancy, and peri-partum and postpartum risks in people with epilepsy. SUMMARY With the introduction of newer generation antiseizure medications being used during pregnancy, current literature shows that there may be decreased risk in adverse foetal and maternal outcomes. In the peri-partum and postpartum period, recent literature shows that people with epilepsy have an increased risk of severe maternal morbidity and hospital readmission. Given this, as well as considerations for dosing of antiseizure medications, close surveillance of people with epilepsy during pregnancy is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Danielle M Panelli
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
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31
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Abstract
Epilepsy affects up to 15 million of people assigned female at birth of childbearing age globally. Up to 65% of these people with epilepsy and gestational capacity have an unplanned pregnancy. Seizure control during pregnancy is important for both the childbearer's and fetus' safety. There are multiple antiseizure medications (ASMs) that can be used to control epilepsy; however, each medication has its own teratogenic risk profile, which must be considered. The majority of these ASMs will require frequent plasma concentration monitoring during pregnancy with corresponding dosage adjustments. Dosages can be reduced back to prepregnancy levels within 3 weeks postpartum. Breastfeeding on ASMs is recommended.
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32
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Cohen JM, Alvestad S, Cesta CE, Bjørk MH, Leinonen MK, Nørgaard M, Einarsdóttir K, Engeland A, Gissler M, Karlstad Ø, Klungsøyr K, Odsbu I, Reutfors J, Selmer RM, Tomson T, Ulrichsen SP, Zoega H, Furu K. Comparative Safety of Antiseizure Medication Monotherapy for Major Malformations. Ann Neurol 2023; 93:551-562. [PMID: 36433783 DOI: 10.1002/ana.26561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2022] [Revised: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study was undertaken to examine the comparative safety of antiseizure medication (ASM) monotherapy in pregnancy with respect to risk of major congenital malformations (MCMs), overall and by MCM subtype. METHODS We conducted a population-based cohort study using national health register data from Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden (1996-2020). We compared pregnancies with first trimester exposure to lamotrigine monotherapy to ASM-unexposed, carbamazepine, valproate, oxcarbazepine, levetiracetam, and topiramate to lamotrigine monotherapy, and stratified monotherapy groups by dose. The outcome was nongenetic MCM and specific subtypes. We estimated adjusted risk ratios (aRRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) with log-binomial regression and propensity score weights. RESULTS There was a higher crude risk of any MCM in pregnancies exposed to lamotrigine monotherapy (n = 8,339) compared to ASM-unexposed pregnancies (n = 4,866,362), but not after confounder adjustment (aRR = 0.97, 95% CI = 0.87-1.08). Compared to lamotrigine, there was an increased risk of malformations associated with valproate (n = 2,031, aRR = 2.05, 95% CI = 1.70-2.46) and topiramate (n = 509, aRR = 1.81, 95% CI = 1.26-2.60), which increased in a dose-dependent manner. We found no differences in malformation risk for carbamazepine (n = 2,674, aRR = 0.91, 95% CI = 0.72-1.15), oxcarbazepine (n = 1,313, aRR = 1.09, 95% CI = 0.83-1.44), or levetiracetam (n = 1,040, aRR = 0.78, 95% CI = 0.53-1.13). Valproate was associated with several malformation subtypes, including nervous system, cardiac, oral clefts, clubfoot, and hypospadias, whereas lamotrigine and carbamazepine were not. INTERPRETATION Topiramate is associated with an increased risk of MCM similar to that associated with valproate, but lower doses may mitigate the risks for both drugs. Conversely, we found no increased risks for lamotrigine, carbamazepine, oxcarbazepine, or levetiracetam, which is reassuring. ANN NEUROL 2023;93:551-562.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline M Cohen
- Department of Chronic Diseases, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway.,Centre for Fertility and Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Silje Alvestad
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.,National Center for Epilepsy, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Carolyn E Cesta
- Center for Pharmacoepidemiology, Karolinska Institute, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Marte-Helene Bjørk
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.,Department of Neurology, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Maarit K Leinonen
- Department of Knowledge Brokers, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Mette Nørgaard
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University Hospital and Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Kristjana Einarsdóttir
- Center of Public Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Iceland, Reykjavik, Iceland
| | - Anders Engeland
- Department of Chronic Diseases, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway.,Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Mika Gissler
- Department of Knowledge Brokers, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, Helsinki, Finland.,Research Center for Child Psychiatry, University of Turku, Turku, Finland.,Region Stockholm, Academic Primary Health Care Center & Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Øystein Karlstad
- Department of Chronic Diseases, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Kari Klungsøyr
- Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.,Department of Health Promotion, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Bergen, Norway
| | - Ingvild Odsbu
- Center for Pharmacoepidemiology, Karolinska Institute, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Mental Disorders, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Johan Reutfors
- Center for Pharmacoepidemiology, Karolinska Institute, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Randi M Selmer
- Department of Chronic Diseases, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Torbjörn Tomson
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Sinna Pilgaard Ulrichsen
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University Hospital and Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Helga Zoega
- Center of Public Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Iceland, Reykjavik, Iceland.,School of Population Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Kari Furu
- Department of Chronic Diseases, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway.,Centre for Fertility and Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
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Ren T, Lee PMY, Li F, Li J. Prenatal Carbamazepine Exposure and Academic Performance in Adolescents: A Population-Based Cohort Study. Neurology 2023; 100:e728-e738. [PMID: 36323520 PMCID: PMC9969917 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000201529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES To investigate whether children born to mothers who used carbamazepine during pregnancy had worse academic performance in adolescence. METHODS This population-based cohort study included all live-born singletons in Denmark between 1996 and 2002 who participated in the national ninth-grade exit examination (n = 370,859). Those born to mothers with prescription of antiseizure medications other than carbamazepine during pregnancy were excluded. We examined the association of in utero exposure to maternal carbamazepine redeemed during pregnancy (n = 290) with academic performance of offspring, defined by the scores in Danish and mathematics in ninth-grade exit examination. We estimated mean z-score difference with linear regression adjusted for socioeconomic factors and potential indications, including epilepsy and medication for other psychiatric disorders. Additional analyses addressing confounding by indication included comparison between in utero exposed vs past exposed and between past exposed and never exposed. In utero exposure to valproate monotherapy was used as a positive control and in utero exposure to lamotrigine as a negative control. RESULTS At the age of 16.1 (SD 0.4) years, adolescents in utero exposed to maternal carbamazepine monotherapy had lower scores both in Danish and mathematics in ninth-grade exit examination (adjusted z-score difference, -0.14 [95% CI -0.24 to -0.05] and -0.17 [95% CI -0.28 to -0.07], respectively). In utero exposure to carbamazepine monotherapy was associated with lower scores than past exposure only (adjusted z-score difference, -0.24 [95% CI -0.41 to -0.06] for Danish and -0.25 [95% CI -0.44 to -0.06] for mathematics), while past exposure to carbamazepine was associated with minor decrease in offspring's academic performance (adjusted z-score difference, -0.02 [95% CI -0.09 to 0.06] for Danish and -0.07 [95% CI -0.16 to 0.01] for mathematics). The association was also observed for in utero exposure to valproate monotherapy, but not for in utero exposure to lamotrigine. DISCUSSION In utero exposure to carbamazepine was associated with poorer academic performance in adolescence, as represented by lower scores in ninth-grade exit examination in Danish and mathematics. Additional studies are needed to confirm these findings because of limitations in this study and variable findings in prior studies. CLASSIFICATION OF EVIDENCE This study provides Class III evidence that academic performance, as reflected in ninth-grade exit examinations in Danish and mathematics, was worse among those exposed to carbamazepine monotherapy in utero, compared with those without in utero exposure to antiseizure medications.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Fei Li
- From the Ministry of Education-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health (T.R., F.L.), Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, China; Department of Clinical Medicine-Department of Clinical Epidemiology (P.M.Y.L., J.L.), Aarhus University and Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark; and Department of Developmental and Behavioural Paediatric & Child Primary Care (F.L.), Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, China.
| | - Jiong Li
- From the Ministry of Education-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health (T.R., F.L.), Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, China; Department of Clinical Medicine-Department of Clinical Epidemiology (P.M.Y.L., J.L.), Aarhus University and Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark; and Department of Developmental and Behavioural Paediatric & Child Primary Care (F.L.), Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, China.
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Increasing use of newer antiseizure medication during pregnancy: An observational study with special focus on lacosamide. Seizure 2023; 107:107-113. [PMID: 37003184 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2023.02.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Epilepsy is a common neurological disease requiring long-term therapy also during pregnancy. Most studies on pregnancy outcomes in women with epilepsy are based on antiseizure medication (ASM) in monotherapy. However, about 20-30% of epilepsy patients require polytherapy and newer ASMs are an option, when seizure control is not achieved with first line ASMs. METHODS Observational study evaluating the use of newer ASMs with marketing authorization since 2005 reported to the Embryotox Center of Clinical Teratology and Drug Safety in Pregnancy between 2004 and 2019. In addition, course and outcome of lacosamide exposed pregnancies were analysed. RESULTS Our study confirms the increasing use of newer ASMs also in pregnant women. This is especially true for lacosamide, eslicarbazepine and brivaracetam with rising numbers of exposed pregnancies soon after marketing authorization. Analysis of 55 prospectively and 10 retrospectively ascertained lacosamide exposed pregnancies does not indicate increased risks of major birth defects or spontaneous abortion. However, bradycardia observed in 3 neonates might be related to prenatal lacosamide exposure. CONCLUSION Available data do not support the assumption of lacosamide being a major teratogen. The increasing use of newer ASMs during pregnancy underscores the need for more studies to guide preconception counselling, especially for lacosamide, eslicarbazepine and brivaracetam.
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Management of Anti-Seizure Medications during Pregnancy: Advancements in The Past Decade. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14122733. [PMID: 36559227 PMCID: PMC9788450 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14122733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2022] [Revised: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Management of seizures often involves continuous medication use throughout a patient's life, including when a patient is pregnant. The physiological changes during pregnancy can lead to altered drug exposure to anti-seizure medications, increasing patient response variability. In addition, subtherapeutic anti-seizure medication concentrations in the mother may increase seizure frequency, raising the risk of miscarriage and preterm labor. On the other hand, drug exposure increases can lead to differences in neurodevelopmental outcomes in the developing fetus. Established pregnancy registries provide insight into the teratogenicity potential of anti-seizure medication use. In addition, some anti-seizure medications are associated with an increased risk of major congenital malformations, and their use has declined over the last decade. Although newer anti-seizure medications are thought to have more favorable pharmacokinetics in general, they are not without risk, as they may undergo significant pharmacokinetic changes when an individual becomes pregnant. With known changes in metabolism and kidney function during pregnancy, therapeutic monitoring of drug concentrations helps to determine if and when doses should be changed to maintain similar seizure control as observed pre-pregnancy. This review concentrates on the results from research in the past decade (2010-2022) regarding risks of major congenital malformations, changes in prescribing patterns, and pharmacokinetics of the anti-seizure medications that are prescribed to pregnant patients with epilepsy.
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Falcicchio G, Russo E, Fabiano A, Scalese M, Boero G, Trojano M, de Tommaso M, La Neve A. Current safety concerns about the use of antiseizure medications in pregnancy. Expert Opin Drug Saf 2022; 21:1459-1468. [PMID: 36537559 DOI: 10.1080/14740338.2022.2160443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Given the high prevalence of epilepsy in women of childbearing potential (15 million out of 50 million people worldwide), antiseizure medication (ASM) use in pregnancy is common. Identifying the safest and most effective ASM to use during pregnancy is often difficult, but also crucially important. The challenge is to balance two needs: maintaining seizure control while minimizing teratogenicity. AREAS COVERED This review looks at seizure- and treatment-related risks to mother and fetus during pregnancy, existing healthcare information programmes, strengths and pitfalls of the main pregnancy registries, known and supposed pharmacokinetic changes during gestation, the utility of therapeutic drug monitoring, and safety concerns. Articles and related content were screened on available publications after January 2000. EXPERT OPINION The use of newer ASMs during pregnancy is still limited, as shown by the paucity of data collected by different pregnancy registries. Choosing these medications can be challenging, partly due to unknown pharmacokinetic modifications in pregnancy, an aspect that serum drug monitoring might help to clarify. The safest treatment is chosen also taking into account the woman's needs, concerns and wishes, but adequate pre-pregnancy counseling is necessary to properly inform her about personal and fetal risks related both to seizures and to medications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Falcicchio
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences and Sense Organs, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Emilio Russo
- Science of Health Department, School of Medicine, University Magna Graecia, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Antonio Fabiano
- Science of Health Department, School of Medicine, University Magna Graecia, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Micaela Scalese
- Pharmacy Department, Azienda Sanitaria Provinciale Di Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Giovanni Boero
- Complex Structure of Neurology, SS Annunziata Hospital, Taranto, Italy
| | - Maria Trojano
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences and Sense Organs, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Marina de Tommaso
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences and Sense Organs, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Angela La Neve
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences and Sense Organs, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
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He L, Ke M, Wu W, Chen J, Guo G, Lin R, Huang P, Lin C. Application of Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic Modeling to Predict Maternal Pharmacokinetics and Fetal Exposure to Oxcarbazepine. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:2367. [PMID: 36365185 PMCID: PMC9693517 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14112367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Revised: 10/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Pregnancy is associated with physiological changes that may affect drug pharmacokinetics (PKs). The aim of this study was to establish a maternal-fetal physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model of oxcarbazepine (OXC) and its active metabolite, 10,11-dihydro-10-hydroxy-carbazepine (MHD), to (1) assess differences in pregnancy, (2) predict changes in PK target parameters of these molecules following the current dosing regimen, (3) assess predicted concentrations of these molecules in the umbilical vein at delivery, and (4) compare different methods for estimating drug placental penetration. Predictions using the pregnancy PBPK model of OXC resulted in maternal concentrations within a 2-fold error, and extrapolation of the model to early-stage pregnancies indicated that changes in median PK parameters remained above target thresholds, requiring increased frequency of monitoring. The dosing simulation results suggested dose adjustment in the last two trimesters. We generally recommend that women administer ≥ 1.5× their baseline dose of OXC during their second and third trimesters. Test methods for predicting placental transfer showed varying performance, with the in vitro method showing the highest predictive accuracy. Exposure to MHD in maternal and fetal venous blood was similar. Overall, the above-mentioned models can enhance understanding of the maternal-fetal PK behavior of drugs, ultimately informing drug-treatment decisions for pregnant women and their fetuses.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Cuihong Lin
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, 20 Cha Zhong M. Rd, Fuzhou 350005, China
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Berman E, Kohn E, Berkovitch M, Kovo M, Eyal S. Lacosamide effects on placental carriers of essential compounds in comparison with valproate: Studies in perfused human placentas. Epilepsia 2022; 63:2949-2957. [PMID: 36056753 PMCID: PMC9826486 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2022] [Revised: 08/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Lacosamide is increasingly being prescribed to pregnant women, although its effects on the developing fetus have not been fully clarified yet. Previously, we have shown that several antiseizure medications, particularly valproate, can affect the expression of carriers of essential compounds in placental cells. Here, our aim was to assess the effect of short ex vivo exposure of human placentas to lacosamide on the expression of carriers of essential nutrients required by the human fetus. METHODS Placentas were obtained from cesarean deliveries of women with no known epilepsy. Cotyledons were cannulated and perfused over 180 min in the presence of lacosamide at 2.5 μg/ml (10 μmol·L-1 , n = 7) or 10 μg/ml (40 μmol·L-1 , n = 6), representing low and high therapeutic concentrations, respectively, in the maternal perfusate. Valproate (83 μg/ml, 500 μmol·L-1 , n = 6) and the perfusion solution (n = 6) were used as the respective positive and negative controls. A customized gene panel array was used to analyze the expression of carrier genes in the perfused cotyledons. RESULTS Following a 3-h perfusion, the mRNA expression of SLC19A1 (encoding the reduced folate carrier 1) was downregulated in placentas treated with 10 μg/ml lacosamide (50%) as compared with the vehicle (p < .05). Across all groups, a significant difference was observed in the expression of SLC19A3 (thiamine transporter 2; 52%, 20%, and 9% decrease by 10 μg/ml lacosamide, 83 μg/ml valproate, and 2.5 μg/ml lacosamide, respectively; p < .05). SIGNIFICANCE Lacosamide at high therapeutic concentrations exerted pharmacological effects on the human placenta. Our findings, if manifested in vivo, suggest that lacosamide could potentially affect folate supply to the fetus and support therapeutic monitoring and careful adjustment of lacosamide plasma concentrations during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erez Berman
- Institute for Drug Research, School of PharmacyHebrew University of JerusalemJerusalemIsrael
| | - Elkana Kohn
- Clinical Pharmacology & Toxicology UnitAssaf Harofeh (Shamir) Medical CenterBeer YakovIsrael
| | - Matitiahu Berkovitch
- Clinical Pharmacology & Toxicology UnitAssaf Harofeh (Shamir) Medical CenterBeer YakovIsrael
| | - Michal Kovo
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyMeir Medical CenterKfar SabaIsrael
| | - Sara Eyal
- Institute for Drug Research, School of PharmacyHebrew University of JerusalemJerusalemIsrael
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D'Onofrio G, Riva A, Amadori E, Lattanzi S, Rose K, Verrotti A, Striano P. Pharmacokinetic considerations surrounding the use of levetiracetam for seizure prophylaxis in neurocritical care - an overview. Expert Opin Drug Metab Toxicol 2022; 18:575-585. [PMID: 36006892 DOI: 10.1080/17425255.2022.2117606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Levetiracetam (LEV) is one of the most widely used anti-seizure medications (ASMs) in clinical practice. This is due both to a different mechanism of action when compared to other ASMs and its easy handling. Indeed, because of its interesting pharmacokinetic properties, it is often used outside of the labelled indications, notably in the neurocritical setting as prophylaxis of epileptic seizures. AREAS COVERED A literature search was conducted and the most relevant studies on the pharmacokinetic properties of LEV were selected by two independent investigators. Current evidence on the use of ASM prophylaxis in the neurocritical setting was also reviewed, highlighting and discussing the strengths and limits of LEV as drug of choice for anti-epileptic prophylaxis in this scenario. EXPERT OPINION LEV has a "near-ideal" pharmacokinetic profile, which makes it an attractive drug for ASM prophylaxis in neurocritical care. However, current recommendations restrict ASMs prophylaxis to very selected circumstances and the role of LEV is marginal. Moreover, studies are generally designed to compare LEV versus phenytoin, whereas studies comparing LEV versus placebo are lacking. Further randomized trials will be needed to better elucidate LEV utility and its neuroprotective role in the neurocritical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gianluca D'Onofrio
- Department of Neurosciences Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DiNOGMI), University of Genoa, Via Gerolamo Gaslini 5, 16147 Genoa, Italy.,Pediatric Neurology and Muscular Diseases Unit, IRCCS Istituto "Giannina Gaslini", Via Gerolamo Gaslini 5, 16147 Genoa, Italy
| | - Antonella Riva
- Department of Neurosciences Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DiNOGMI), University of Genoa, Via Gerolamo Gaslini 5, 16147 Genoa, Italy.,Pediatric Neurology and Muscular Diseases Unit, IRCCS Istituto "Giannina Gaslini", Via Gerolamo Gaslini 5, 16147 Genoa, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Amadori
- Department of Neurosciences Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DiNOGMI), University of Genoa, Via Gerolamo Gaslini 5, 16147 Genoa, Italy.,Pediatric Neurology and Muscular Diseases Unit, IRCCS Istituto "Giannina Gaslini", Via Gerolamo Gaslini 5, 16147 Genoa, Italy
| | - Simona Lattanzi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Neurological Clinic, Marche Polytechnic University, Via Conca 71, 60020, Ancona, Italy
| | - Klaus Rose
- klausrose Consulting, Riehen, Switzerland
| | - Alberto Verrotti
- Pediatric Unit, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, 06156 Perugia, Italy
| | - Pasquale Striano
- Department of Neurosciences Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DiNOGMI), University of Genoa, Via Gerolamo Gaslini 5, 16147 Genoa, Italy.,Pediatric Neurology and Muscular Diseases Unit, IRCCS Istituto "Giannina Gaslini", Via Gerolamo Gaslini 5, 16147 Genoa, Italy
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Nucera B, Brigo F, Trinka E, Kalss G. Treatment and care of women with epilepsy before, during, and after pregnancy: a practical guide. Ther Adv Neurol Disord 2022; 15:17562864221101687. [PMID: 35706844 PMCID: PMC9189531 DOI: 10.1177/17562864221101687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Women with epilepsy (WWE) wishing for a child represent a highly relevant subgroup of epilepsy patients. The treating epileptologist needs to delineate the epilepsy syndrome and choose the appropriate anti-seizure medication (ASM) considering the main goal of seizure freedom, teratogenic risks, changes in drug metabolism during pregnancy and postpartum, demanding for up-titration during and down-titration after pregnancy. Folic acid or vitamin K supplements and breastfeeding are also discussed in this review. Lamotrigine and levetiracetam have the lowest teratogenic potential. Data on teratogenic risks are also favorable for oxcarbazepine, whereas topiramate tends to have an unfavorable profile. Valproate needs special emphasis. It is most effective in generalized seizures but should be avoided whenever possible due to its teratogenic effects and the negative impact on neuropsychological development of in utero-exposed children. Valproate still has its justification in patients not achieving seizure freedom with other ASMs or if a woman decides to or cannot become pregnant for any reason. When valproate is the most appropriate treatment option, the patient and caregiver must be fully informed of the risks associated with its use during pregnancies. Folate supplementation is recommended to reduce the risk of major congenital malformations. However, there is insufficient information to address the optimal dose and it is unclear whether higher doses offer greater protection. There is currently no general recommendation for a peripartum vitamin K prophylaxis. During pregnancy most ASMs (e.g. lamotrigine, oxcarbazepine, and levetiracetam) need to be increased to compensate for the decline in serum levels; exceptions are valproate and carbamazepine. Postpartum, baseline levels are reached relatively fast, and down-titration is performed empirically. Many ASMs in monotherapy are (moderately) safe for breastfeeding and women should be encouraged to do so. This review provides a practically oriented overview of the complex management of WWE before, during, and after pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruna Nucera
- Department of Neurology, Hospital of Merano (SABES-ASDAA), Merano-Meran, Italy
| | - Francesco Brigo
- Department of Neurology, Hospital of Merano (SABES-ASDAA), Merano-Meran, Italy
| | - Eugen Trinka
- Department of Neurology, Christian Doppler University Hospital, Paracelsus Medical University and Centre for Cognitive Neuroscience, Member of the ERN EpiCARE, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Gudrun Kalss
- Department of Neurology, Christian Doppler University Hospital, Paracelsus Medical University and Centre for Cognitive Neuroscience, Member of the ERN EpiCARE, Ignaz-Harrer-Str. 79, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
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Anti-Epileptika in der Schwangerschaft. Dtsch Med Wochenschr 2022. [DOI: 10.1055/a-1746-0845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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