Anti-seizure medicines

People with epilepsy are more likely to break a bone than people without epilepsy. This is partly because of seizures and falls. But some anti-seizure medicines also increase the chance of breaking a bone. We do not know exactly how this happens, but the medicines could affect how Vitamin D is used by the body. Vitamin D helps the body use calcium to keep bones strong.

Long-term treatment with:

• carbamazepine

• phenytoin

• primidone

• sodium valproate

can reduce bone density. This can lead to osteoporosis and broken bones.

If you are over 50, have epilepsy and are taking one of these medicines, talk to your doctor about a fracture risk assessment.

You can also ask them about your Vitamin D levels and whether you need a supplement. Everyone should consider Vitamin D supplements between late September and early April. But your doctor may suggest you take a higher dose of Vitamin D supplement all year around if you're on one of these medicines.