QuestionSBA
QuestionChoice
Lamotrigine is considered to be safe in pregnancy, so would not need to be stopped in this case. There are some concerns as the data is quite limited, but it is safer for both the foetus and the mother to have adequate seizure control.
10027887
b
Lamotrigine
QuestionChoice
There is an increased risk of congenital malformations with the use of carbamazepine. Therefore, it should be avoided in pregnancy. However, it is not as important to stop as valproate, as this has a known highly teratogenic effect.
10027890
e
Carbamazepine
QuestionChoice
Valproate has an established highly teratogenic side effect. It should definitely be avoided in pregnancy as it can cause neural tube defects. This woman ideally should be taking a different anti-epileptic for this reason but valproate may be the only option for adequate seizure control.
10027886
a
Sodium valproate
QuestionChoice
There is a possibility of adverse effects on neurodevelopment with the use of phenytoin in pregnancy. As the risk is there, it should be avoided but it is not as important to stop as valproate.
10027889
d
Phenytoin
QuestionChoice
Levetiracetam is considered to be safe in pregnancy, so would not need to be stopped in this case. There are some concerns as the data is quite limited, but it is safer for both the foetus and the mother to have adequate seizure control.
10027888
c
Levetiracetam
Concept
Chapter
2693
6014
Valproate
Topic
195
Pharmacology
17975
A 24-year-old woman presents to the neurology clinic for a review of her epilepsy. She says she has been thinking of starting a family but is aware she will need advice about her medication before starting to try for a pregnancy.

Which anti-epileptic drug would be most important to switch out if she was taking it?
a