Previous studies have already shown that most epilepsy DRUGS when taken during pregnancy poses risk of birth defects in the unborn child. The very reason why most women with epilepsy are advised against pregnancy. Either that or stop taking the epilepsy drugs or find another drug maybe during the pregnancy period.

Now, one more epilepsy drug - topiramate - may increase risk of birth defects when taken alone or with other epilepsy drugs during pregnancy.

According to the study published in the July 22, 2008 issue of Neurology, little research has been done on topiramate.

Studies have shown that topiramate increases the risk of birth defects in animals. Maintaining effective epilepsy treatment during pregnancy is crucial because seizures may cause harm to the fetus.

For the study, researchers examined women who became pregnant while taking topiramate either on its own or along with other epilepsy drugs. Of 178 babies born, 16 had major birth defects. Three of these were in infants whose mothers were taking only topiramate, and 13 were in those whose mothers were taking topiramate and other epilepsy drugs.

Four of the babies had cleft palates or cleft lips, a rate 11 times higher than that expected if these women were not taking epilepsy drugs. Four male babies had genital birth defects, with two of those classified as major defects, which is 14 times higher than the normal rate for this defect.

Least to say that it is a tough call for women with epilepsy to decide whether to become pregnant or not. Either way, there are risks but I guess as long as you work closely with your doctor to discuss your options, I guess it can be done. Still it will become a difficult process to take, because once a woman with epilepsy decides to have a baby, the meds for her epilepsy has to be chosen and administered carefully just to ensure the safety and best health for the baby.

Read more from American Academy of Neurology.

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