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Anticonvulsants & Emotional Disorders

Also called: Anticonvulsant Drugs, Anticonvulsant Medications

- Summary
- About anticonvulsants
- Conditions treated
- Conditions of concern
- Potential side effects
- Drug or other interactions
- Symptoms of overdose
- Pregnancy use issues
- Child use issues
- Elderly use issues
- Questions for your doctor

Reviewed By:
Steven A. King, M.D.
 Tahir Tellioglu, M.D., APA, AAAP

Summary

Anticonvulsants are a class of drugs primarily used to treat seizures. However, these medications may also be used to treat mental health conditions such as bipolar disorder and some personality disorders.

Two anticonvulsants in particular – carbamazepine and divalproex – have been shown to be effective in treating mental health conditions.

Anticonvulsants are available in tablet, capsule and liquid form. They may not be prescribed to patients with certain health conditions, such as liver or kidney disease, or certain blood disorders. In addition, pregnant women, children and the elderly should only use these drugs with extreme caution and in close consultation with a physician.

Central nervous system (CNS) effects, cardiovascular effects and gastrointestinal effects are potential side effects of nearly all anticonvulsants. Other side effects are more closely associated with individual types of anticonvulsants. Use of anticonvulsants must be closely monitored. The drugs have numerous potential interactions with other medications and overdose of anticonvulsants can pose serious health risks.

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Review Date: 06-06-2007

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