Safety and tolerability of antiepileptic therapy: emphasis on the use of valproates (literature review)

Since epilepsy is a chronic disease of the nervous system that requires long-term therapy and regular intake of antiepileptic drugs, good tolerability of therapy is crucial for the quality of life of these patients. The main aim of antiepileptic treatment is the creation of a balance between the efficacy and tolerability of therapy. This literature review analyzes tolerability and safety of antiepileptic therapy. We paid particular attention to valproate, a drug that has been used for the treatment of epilepsy for more than 57 years. Valproate remains a basic drug with high efficacy and well-studied safety and tolerability. This review also covers the problems of epilepsy aggravation in response to some antiepileptic drugs, effects of antiepileptic drugs on cognitive functions, behavior, and mental sphere, as well as the issues of tolerability and safety of antiepileptic drugs in women of reproductive age.