ANTICONVULSANT THERAPY AND THE RISK OF OSTEOPOROSIS IN WOMEN OF CHILDBEARING AGE

Epilepsy is one of the most prevalent neurological disorders, affecting approximately five million people worldwide, which accounts for 0.5–1% of the global population. Many patients require long-term or even lifelong anticonvulsant therapy to manage seizures effectively. However, beyond their primary therapeutic benefits, these drugs can have significant long-term side effects. Prolonged use of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) has been linked to metabolic disturbances, including impaired bone metabolism, alterations in calcium and vitamin D levels, and an increased risk of osteoporosis, especially in women of reproductive age. Given these risks, modern research focuses on developing safer and more effective AEDs with fewer adverse effects, minimal drug interactions, and lower enzyme induction. Understanding the broader impact of AEDs on systemic health is essential for optimizing treatment approaches and improving patients' overall well-being.