[Pharmacokinetics of antiepileptic agents: their significance in the therapy of epilepsy]

Abstract

In the modern treatment of epilepsy, determination of the serum concentration of antiepileptic drugs is essential. In cases which are refractory to treatment, cases where a combination of different drugs is necessary, or cases where compliance of the patient with the prescription is questionable, a knowledge of serum levels of anticonvulsants and acquaintance with their pharmacokinetics is indispensable for optimal therapy. The pharmacokinetic properties of antiepileptic drugs and their important and common interactions are reviewed. The effective serum concentrations of the commonly used antiepileptic drugs are listed and discussed.