How Antiepileptics May Change the Serum Level of Vitamin D, Calcium, and Phosphorus in Children with Epilepsy

AbstractObjectiveStudies have shown vitamin (Vit) D deficiency and bone disease in long-term use of antiepileptics, especially in young individuals. This study aimed to determine the relationship between antiepileptic drugsand the level of Vit D, calcium (Ca), and phosphorus (P) in children with epilepsy at the Shohada Hospital from 2016 to 2017. Methods & MaterialsIn this case-control study, 60 consecutive children with epilepsy at the Shohada Hospital from 2016 to 2017 under treatment with anticonvulsions for more than six months were enrolled as the case group.The level of Vit D, Ca, and P was determined in the case group and compared with 60 children without seizure as the control group.ResultsThe mean Ca and P were alike across the groups (P > 0.05). The mean Vit D3 level was 31.3 and 40 in the case and control groups, respectively, with significant difference (P=0.0001). The mean Ca and P were alike across the types of drug in the case group (P > 0.05); however, the mean Vit D3 level was lower in the case versus controlgroup with significant difference (P=0.040). ConclusionTotally, according to the obtained results, it may be concluded that treatment with antiepileptic drugs, especially stimulant type, is related to the lower Vit D3 level, but not to the Ca and P levels.&nbsp