Huda Abdulwadood Omer, Muna Anwer Kutb and Huda Abdulla Kaatabi
Background and objectives: Levetiracetam (LEV) is an established second-generation antiepileptic drug. Its use in women with epilepsy of child-bearing potential is a delicate balance between seizure control and adverse effects to the fetus. This study has been designed to evaluate the histopathological effect of levetiracetam in different doses (Therapeutic dose & ¼ LD50), on the placenta of experimental rats.
Design and Setting: This study is a randomized single blind control trail conducted from January 2009-December2009.Materials and Methods: Placentas were collected for microscopic examination on day 20 of gestation after rat’s scarification.
Results: The placenta showed neither significant reduction in weight nor any overt anomaly compared to control group. Histological examination of the treated groups showed structural changes mainly in the dose of 1/4 LD50. Decidual necrosis, decrease trophospongium area, fibrinoid deposit, necrosis of labyrinth, vascular congestion and hemorrhage were observed. The results suggested that levetiracetam induced dose dependent changes in the structure of placenta.
Conclusions: Therefore, levetiracetam in therapeutic dose can be used safely during pregnancy. However, its safety showed be established in a large scale randomized study with long term follow-up.
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