Is it safe to take Versitol retard tablets during pregnancy?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have had a history of seizures for five years, but I do not get them regularly. The last seizure I got was before three years. I am on Versitol retard 200 mg tablets, and currently, I am pregnant. So is it safe to take this drug?

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

Tablet Versitol contains Carbamazepine, and if consumed during pregnancy (especially the first trimester), this drug is known to cause congenital disabilities (neural tube defects) in the fetus.

Hope this helps.

Thank you and take care.

Answer 2

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

The selection of antiepileptic medication will be taken based on the type of seizure, underlying etiology (if evident), control of seizures and side effect profile of the medicine. It is double sword decision to switch antiepileptics during pregnancy. If seizures are not controlled by new medication, seizure episodes during pregnancy may lead to abortion or fetal hypoxia (if prolonged seizures happen). I would suggest consulting physically with all your previous records for better understanding.

Either way, some of the following risks will remain.

1. If the medication is continued, causing good control, there is a risk of neural tube defects in the fetus, though no one can predict whether further seizures will happen on the same medication.

2. Switching to a new medication may disrupt seizure control.

Hope this helps.

Thank you and take care.