Anti epilepsy drugs increase risk of spina bifida and other neural tube defects

Could anti epilepsy drugs cause spina bifida in my unborn baby?

Epilepsy is the most common serious neurological condition, with at least 1 in 200 people having the condition. Moreover, approximately 40% of people with hydrocephalus are also affected by some form of epilepsy.

There is a growing body of evidence that certain anti-epileptic drugs, in particular some of the ‘older generation' anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs) can cause major defects, including spina bifida (by interfering with folic acid metabolism and affecting neural tube development). These are carbamazepeine (Tegretol), phenytoin (Epanutin) and sodium valproate (Epilim). Sodium valproate in particular has been associated with a 1-2% risk of spina bifida.

But women should never suddenly stop taking their medication. All women who are on any anti epilepsy medication should seek advice about all possible risks before becoming pregnant. It is important that women taking AEDs should plan ahead and avoid an accidental pregnancy.