First AD

Second AD

Studies have found that children who take antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) have lower bone mineral density and increased fracture risk, compared with those who do not take AEDs.

 of children with epilepsy treated with AEDS matched to twins, siblings, or cousins not on AEDs found increased prevalence of bone fractures and decreased bone volume in AED users.

Some researchers have postulated that impaired vitamin D synthesis related to AEDs may explain the association, but vitamin D status was not statistically significant between cases and controls in this study.

Impaired bone and muscle development in young people treated with antiepileptic drugs

Epilepsy

Are AEDs safe for children? Take the quiz and learn more.

Mini Quiz: Antileptic Drugs in Children

Veronica Hackenthal, MD