Suicidal ideation in epilepsy and levetiracetam therapy

Abstract

There is little literature on a possible link between the use of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) and the occurrence of suicidal ideation. Nevertheless, its occurrence needs to be promptly recognized because it may trigger suicidal attempts. We retrospectively evaluated a case registry of 517 patients taking levetiracetam (LEV) for suicidal ideation, looking at possible clinical variables involved. Suicidal ideation was reported by four patients (0.7%). All cases occurred in the context of a mood disorder presenting early during LEV therapy. Psychopathological characteristics of suicidal ideation were consistent in all subjects and similar to some features that are described as typical of the so-called interictal dysphoric disorder of epilepsy.