Effect of Antiepileptic Drugs on Serum Vitamin B12 and Folic Acid Among Children with Epilepsy in Bangalore

Abstract

In India, there are more than 12 million people diagnosed with epilepsy, and contributes nearly to the one sixth of global burden. Over 60% of diagnosis for epilepsy is done in childhood; hence, it is of major importance to pediatricians. we aimed to assess the levels of Vitamin B12 and Folic acid among children with epilepsy receiving antiepileptic drugs like Carbamazepine, Sodium Valproate and Levetiracetam monotherapy for >1 year. A total of 77 children with epilepsy (<18 years), on monotherapy with SV, CBZ, LEV, for minimum one year, were enrolled after obtaining consent from the parent/guardian. Children with co morbid condition like chronic kidney disease, chronic liver disease, those children who were on multiple AED’s, and children receiving treatment for <1year were excluded from the study. Out of the 77 patients, who were selected for the study, 46 were males and 31 were females. There has been a significant association between duration of treatment and Vitamin B12 and levels of Folic acid. There is also enough evidence to show that age of the patient and Folic acid levels are dependent variables. The proportion of children developing deficiency of Vitamin B12 or Folic acid after treatment with LEV is greater than the proportion treated with CBZ. The proportion of patients developing deficiency of Folic acid after treatment with LEV is greater than the same proportion after treatment with CBZ. Though there were a few significant findings as reported, we, the authors, feel that the study should be continued to ascertain if the AED’s have a significant role in Vitamin B12 and Folic acid metabolism and supplementation should be advised along with the AED’s.