Pharmacokinetic characteristics of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs)

Abstract

Abstract Antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) are routinely prescribed for the management of a variety of neurologic and psychiatric conditions, including epilepsy and epilepsy syndromes. Physiologic changes due to aging, pregnancy, nutritional status, drug interactions, and diseases (ie, those involving liver and kidney function) can affect pharmacokinetics of AEDs. This review discusses foundational pharmacokinetic characteristics of AEDs currently available in the United States, including clobazam but excluding the other benzodiazepines. Commonalities of pharmacokinetic properties of AEDs are discussed in detail. Important differences among AEDs and clinically relevant pharmacokinetic interactions in absorption, distribution, metabolism, and/or elimination associated with AEDs are highlighted. In general, newer AEDs have more predictable kinetics and lower risks for drug interactions. This is because many are minimally or not bound to serum proteins, are primarily renally cleared or metabolized by non–cytochrome P450 isoenzymes, and/or have lower potential to induce/inhibit various hepatic enzyme systems. A clear understanding of the pharmacokinetic properties of individual AEDs is essential in creating a safe and effective treatment plan for a patient.