title: Management of epilepsy during pregnancy: an update.
abstract: The clinical management of women with epilepsy on antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) during pregnancy presents unique challenges. The goal of treatment is optimal seizure control with minimal in utero fetal exposure to AEDs in an effort to reduce the risk of structural and neurodevelopmental teratogenic effects. This paper reviews the following key issues pertaining to women with epilepsy during pregnancy: AED pharmacokinetics; clinical management of AEDs; seizure frequency; major congenital malformation; neurodevelopmental outcomes; perinatal complications; and breast feeding.
authors.affiliation: Department of Neurology, University of Minnesota Health/MINCEP Epilepsy Care, 5775 Wayzata Blvd, Minneapolis, MN 55416, USA.
authors.forename: Sima I
authors.initials: SI
authors.lastname: Patel
authors.affiliation: Department of Neurology, Divisions of Epilepsy and Women's Health, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
authors.forename: Page B
authors.initials: PB
authors.lastname: Pennell
keywords: antiepileptic drugs; breast feeding; epilepsy; neurocognitive development; perinatal outcomes; pregnancy; seizures; teratogenicity