Medications, Pregnancy and Lactation

Anti-epileptic drug use during pregnancy: Risks and benefits for the mother and child

The main concern associated with antiepileptic drugs in pregnancy consists of maternal and fetal risks. There is still uncertainty about the risk of fetal malformation associated with the intake of various antiepileptic drugs, especially newer agents, in pregnancy. The team is investigating this situation in the province of Quebec.

Through the study, the team aims to determine the prevalence and trends of anti-epileptic drug use during pregnancy and to evaluate their association with major congenital malformations. Dosage, type of medication and drug combinations are being considered. These aspects of anti-epileptic medication use during pregnancy are studied using data from the Quebec Pregnancy Registry.