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Current Obstetrics and Gynecology Reports

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01-12-2018 | Family Planning (A Burke, Section Editor)

Contraception for Women with Epilepsy

Author: Emily L. Johnson

Published in: Current Obstetrics and Gynecology Reports | Issue 4/2018

Abstract

Purpose of Review

The purpose of this review is to summarize the current available literature on contraception for women with epilepsy, and to provide recommendations for women with epilepsy on enzyme-inducing anti-seizure drugs and on non-enzyme-inducing anti-seizure drugs.

Recent Findings

A recent study has confirmed the safety of the levonorgestrel-containing intrauterine device for women with epilepsy, with no effect on seizure control or anti-seizure drug levels. Other recent studies have found low serum etonogestrel or levonorgestrel levels in women on enzyme-inducing anti-seizure drugs and the etonogestrel or levonorgestrel implant, making this an unsuitable method for women on such drugs.

Summary

Women with epilepsy have an especially compelling need to avoid unplanned pregnancy, as some common anti-seizure medications have teratogenic or detrimental neurocognitive effects on exposed children. Women on enzyme-inducing anti-seizure drugs and their physicians must be particularly aware of drug interactions with hormonal contraceptive methods.

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Title: Contraception for Women with Epilepsy
Author: Emily L. Johnson
Publication date: 01-12-2018
Publisher: Springer US
Published in: Current Obstetrics and Gynecology Reports / Issue 4/2018
Electronic ISSN: 2161-3303
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s13669-018-0250-6

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Contraception for Women with Epilepsy

Abstract

Purpose of Review

Recent Findings

Summary

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Purpose of Review

Recent Findings

Summary

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