Levetiracetam and Valproic Acid: Effects on the Liver Functions and Ammonia Level in Children

Purpose: There is evidence that levetiracetam and valproic acid causes a changes of serum ammonia level and liver function tests. The aim of this study was to evaluate the liver function parameters and ammonia level in children with seizures on treatment with levetiracetam in comparison treated with valproic acid. Materials and Methods: Between March 2010 and October 2010, we treated 42 patients with epilepsy. We determined the serum concentration of antiepileptic drug, transaminases, g-glutamyl transferase, and ammonia level in 22 children treated with valproic acid, and in 20 children treated with levetiracetam. Results: There were no significant differences in the serum transaminases, g-glutamyl transferase between the patients treated with valproic acid, and the patients treated with levetiracetam. Hyperammonemia was detected in patients treated with valproic acid. Conclusion: These results suggest that the treatment with levetiracetam does not alter the serum ammonia level, and liver functions