Modification in body weight associated with antiepileptic drugs

Antiepileptic drugs (AED) may cause body weight changes. To evaluate the dietary habits and body weight associated with AED in epileptic patients. Sixty-six patients were subjected to two interviews, and had their weight and body mass index calculated and compared at both times, interval between six to eight months. It was observed that 59.1% showed weight gain. The patients who had no weight gain had a greater proportion of individuals who engaged in some form of physical activity. However, of the 45 patients who maintained their initial dietary and medication pattern, 75.6% recorded a weight gain. Weight gain was seen in 66.7% of patients on carbamazepine (n=18), 60% on valproate (n=5), 50% on carbamazepine+clobazam treatment (n=14), and 58.3% of patients on other(s) polytherapy (n=12). The patient should be alerted to possible weight gain, and should be advised about dieting and participating in regular physical activity.