title: Fractures, epilepsy, and antiepileptic drugs.
abstract: The risk for skeletal fractures in patients with epilepsy is two to six times greater than in the general population. Fractures may be caused by seizures themselves or by falls, with or without seizures. Side effects of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs), such as ataxia, and coexisting neurological deficits contribute to the risk for falls. The effects of older AEDs on bone mineral density probably increase the risk for fractures associated with seizures and falls. Preventive measures include optimal control of seizures and supplementation with calcium and vitamin D. Whether newer AEDs prove to be without adverse effects on bone mineral metabolism remains to be determined.
authors.affiliation: Department of Neurology, Yale University, 15 York Street, P.O. Box 208010, New Haven, CT 06520, USA. Richard.Mattson@yale.edu
authors.forename: Richard H
authors.initials: RH
authors.lastname: Mattson
authors.forename: Barry E
authors.initials: BE
authors.lastname: Gidal
mesh_terms: D000927:Anticonvulsants / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D015519:Bone Density / Q000187:drug effects*; D001851:Bone Diseases, Metabolic / Q000139:chemically induced*; D004827:Epilepsy / Q000188:drug therapy*; D005598:Fractures, Spontaneous / Q000139:chemically induced*; D006801:Humans; D010024:Osteoporosis / Q000139:chemically induced*; D012307:Risk Factors
chemical_list: D000927:Anticonvulsants