Unveiling the Hidden Burden: Medication-Related Problems in Epilepsy and Their Impact on Seizure Control & Quality of Life

Background: Epilepsy is a degenerative neurological disorder marked by recurrent seizures that substantially diminish patients' quality of life (QoL). Antiepileptic medicines (AEDs), the principal treatment modality, frequently lead to various drug-related issues (MRPs) such as non-adherence, adverse drug reactions (ADRs), drug-drug interactions (DDIs), and misdosing. These MRPs adversely affect therapy efficacy by compromising seizure management and quality of life. In Iraq, there is a paucity of published research on medication-related problems in epileptic patients, indicating significant opportunities for discovery. Objective: To ascertain the frequency and prevalence of medication-related problems (MRPs) among epileptic patients in a clinical setting in Iraq, identify the factors contributing to MRPs, and evaluate their impact on seizure management and quality of life (QoL). Methodology: This was a cross-sectional study conducted in Dhi Qar Governorate, Iraq, from September to December 2024. This study collected data from 97 patients via formal interviews and examination of medical records. They categorized MRPs as non-adherence, adverse drug reactions (ADRs), drug-drug interactions (DDIs), and dosage mistakes. We employed descriptive statistics and logistic regression models to analyze the prevalence, contributory factors, and impacts of MRPs on seizure control and quality of life (QoL). Results: The most prevalent medication-related problems (MRPs) were non-adherence (40.2%), adverse drug reactions (ADRs) (29.9%), drug-drug interactions (DDIs) (24.7%), and dose errors (18.6%). Polypharmacy (OR: 2.5, p < 0.001), age over 50 years (OR: 1.8, p = 0.02), and low educational attainment were all significantly correlated with medication-related problems (MRPs). Patients with MRP had much lower ratings of seizure control—only 35.1% were able to control their seizures, compared to 64.9% of people in the uncontrolled or partially controlled group. The quality of life was also diminished in individuals with persistent medication-related problems. Conclusion: Medication-related problems (MRPs) are prevalent among individuals with epilepsy and have substantial implications for seizure treatment and overall quality of life. The efficacy of treatment depends on the prevention of MRPs via pharmacist intervention, education, and oversight. Further study is required to determine specific strategies that can reduce MRPs and enhance epilepsy care in resource-limited environments.