AN EDUCATIONAL INITIATIVE - TO IMPROVE PRESCRIPTION LITERACY IN ANTI EPILEPTIC MEDICATION

Epilepsy, a common neurological condition, is primarily treated with antiepileptic drugs (AEDs). However, the management of AEDs is prone to prescription errors due to their narrow therapeutic index, complex pharmacokinetics, and high risk of drug-drug interactions. This review explores the classification, causes, consequences, and solutions to minimize AED prescription errors, addressing critical gaps in current practices and emerging approaches. Prescription errors are broadly categorized into prescribing, dispensing, and administration errors, each stemming from distinct challenges. Contributing factors include inadequate knowledge of AED pharmacology and guidelines among healthcare providers, systemic issues like inefficient electronic health records (EHRs), and patient-related factors such as poor adherence and communication. These errors can lead to serious consequences, including seizure recurrence, adverse effects, psychological stress, and increased healthcare costs, especially in children, pregnant women, and the elderly. Strategies to mitigate these issues include implementing technology-driven solutions like computerized physician order entry (CPOE) and clinical decision support systems (CDSS). Standardized templates, training for providers, and patient education also enhance prescription safety. Innovations like pharmacogenomics, artificial intelligence, and mobile health (mHealth) applications are emerging as valuable tools for improving adherence and customizing therapies. A multidisciplinary approach is essential for reducing errors, improving outcomes, and optimizing epilepsy care.