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Antiepileptic Drugs (AEDs)

Antiepileptic Drugs (AEDs) and Movement Disorders: A Complex Relationship

Antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) are primarily used to manage epilepsy but can also be employed in treating various movement disorders. However, their use is complex, as they can both alleviate and induce movement disorders.

AEDs Used in Movement Disorders

AEDs like clonazepam, gabapentin, lacosamide, levetiracetam, and valproate are used to treat conditions such as tremors, myoclonus, and choreiform movements. Primidone is particularly effective for essential tremor, although it may cause side effects like ataxia13.

AEDs That Induce Movement Disorders

Some AEDs can cause movement disorders as side effects:

• Valproate is associated with postural tremor and parkinsonism2.
• Phenytoin can induce dystonia, choreoathetosis, and other dyskinetic movements5.
• Carbamazepine may cause dystonia, though it can also reduce choreiform movements3.

Newer AEDs and Movement Disorders

Newer AEDs like lamotrigine, gabapentin, and levetiracetam have shown promise in managing hyperkinetic movement disorders with fewer side effects compared to older drugs47. However, comprehensive data on their long-term safety regarding movement disorders is still emerging.

Conclusion

AEDs play a dual role in managing movement disorders—both therapeutic and potentially causative. Careful selection and monitoring are essential to optimize benefits while minimizing adverse effects.

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At DrStemCellsThailand (DRSCT)‘s Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine Center of Thailand, we emphasize comprehensive evaluations and personalized treatment plans of Cellular Therapy and Stem Cells for managing various health conditions. If you have questions about Antiepileptic Drugs (AEDs) or would like more information on our services, consult with our experts today!

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References

1. Antiseizure Drugs and Movement Disorders – PubMed
2. Movement Disorders Induced by Antiepileptic Drugs – Pediatric Neurology Briefs
3. Use of Antiepileptic Drugs for Hyperkinetic Movement Disorders – PMC
4. Use of Antiepileptic Drugs for Hyperkinetic Movement Disorders – Eurekaselect
5. META-ANALYSIS OF ANTIEPILEPTIC DRUGS INDUCED MOVEMENT DISORDERS
6. Movement Disorders Associated with Antiseizure Medications – Wiley
7. Movement Disorders Secondary to Novel Antiseizure Medications – SAGE
8. Drug-induced Movement Disorders – Australian Prescriber

These references highlight the complex relationship between AEDs and movement disorders, emphasizing both their therapeutic potential and potential side effects.