ABSTRACT

To assess whether antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) could affect serum and hair trace element le-vels, we studied 40 children with epilepsy.

Their serum zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), magnesium (Mg) and hair Zn levels were measured by atomic absorption spectrophotometer prior to and 3 months after therapy with VPA (sodium valproate) or PB (phenobarbital).

In both treatments, epileptic children were found to have lower serum Zn concentra-tions. When serum Zn levels were compared after VPA and PB therapies, those who received PB therapy were observed to have a less significant decrease in serum Zn level.

Although none of our patients showed any symptoms of Zn deficiency, we should be cautious about this in patients who receive VPA and/or PB therapy.

Keywords: Antiepileptic drugs, epilepsy, trace element levels