The Effect Of Antiepileptic Medication On Indices Of Bone Health And Risk Factors For Falls And Fractures

Abstract

Epilepsy is a common brain disorder and most patients with epilepsy take anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs) for many years. These patients have high rates of bone fractures, but the reasons are uncertain. Earlier studies identifying an association between AED use and bone disease were performed on institutionalised patients, and more recent studies on outpatient populations have been conflicting. A better understanding of this problem is critical for designing potential preventive measures and treatments. One important additional mechanism by which AEDs may increase fracture risk is impairment of gait and balance, leading to a high risk of falls. We have novel data demonstrating the power of a Twin..

Related publications (2)

Changes in balance function with chronic antiepileptic drug therapy: A twin and sibling study

Baemisla Shiek Ahmad, John D Wark, Sandra J Petty, Terence J O'Brien, Alexandra Gorelik, Phillip N Sambrook, Keith D Hill

2015-11-01

Weight and fat distribution in patients taking valproate: A valproate-discordant gender-matched twin and sibling pair study

Sandra J Petty, Susan Kantor, Kate M Lawrence, Samuel F Berkovic, Marnie Collins, Keith D Hill, Joanna Makovey, Philip N Sambrook, Terence J O'Brien, John D Wark

2014-10-01