New study of anti-seizure medications during pregnancy and baby and childhood outcomes

A new study has looked at the safety of taking anti-seizure medications (ASMs) during pregnancy. The study was based on data from pregnancies of women with epilepsy living in Scotland who conceived between 2010 – 2023

The team studied over 900,000 pregnancies, comparing outcomes in those women who did, and did not, receive ASMs. The following ASMs were examined: valproate, topiramate, carbamazepine, lamotrigine, levetiracetam, gabapentin and pregabalin.

The findings reinforced the known risks of taking valproate during pregnancy and also raised concerns about pregabalin and gabapentin. 

Lamotrigine and levetiracetam appeared to be safer options. However, while the study shows potential risks of taking some anti-seizure medications, it warns that there can also be risks with suddenly stopping them including seizures being less well controlled. Women must not stop or change their medication unless in consultation with their doctor or consultant. Women who are planning a pregnancy or who are pregnant, should be referred to an epilepsy specialist team for a review of their anti-seizure medication.

Nicola Swanborough, Head of External Affairs at Epilepsy Society said; “As always, the research reinforces the importance of prospective parents understanding the risks around anti-seizure medications during pregnancy, and making sure that they are on the safest options both for them and their babies. This should be part of a discussion with their doctor or healthcare specialist. No-one should stop taking their medication without medical supervision as seizures can also pose a risk during pregnancy.”

 Further information about epilepsy and pregnancy is available on our website here: Starting a family | Epilepsy Society