Does Prenatal Exposure to Levetiracetam and Topiramate Affect Cognition?

Although various factors contribute to cognitive impairment in children of women with epilepsy, exposure to antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) definitely plays a major role. The leading hypothesis for the mechanism behind cognitive effects involves AED-induced apoptosis and altered synaptogenesis (Drug Saf 2015; 38:271). Most research suggests that fetal exposure to lamotrigine or levetiracetam is safer, with regard to cognition, than other AEDs like sodium valproate (Neurology 2011; 76:383 and Neurology 2015; 84:382).

To compare the effects of prenatal exposure to monotherapy levetiracetam, topiramate, and valproate on subsequent cognitive functioning, researchers conducted a cross-sectional, observational study. Children aged 5 to 9 years were enr…