medtigo Journal of Pharmacology

|Original Research

| Volume 3, Issue 1

Evaluation of Adverse Drug Effects of Anti-Epileptic Drugs in Tertiary Care Hospitals


Author Affiliations

medtigo J Pharmacol. |
Date - Received: Dec 07, 2025,
Accepted: Dec 10, 2025,
Published: Jan 02, 2026.

Abstract

Epilepsy represents a widely recognized neurological disorder that necessitates the administration of antiepileptic drugs for its treatment. Although these pharmacological agents are proficient in seizure management, their utilization is often correlated with a spectrum of adverse drug effects that profoundly influence patient adherence and overall quality of life. The primary aim of this investigation was to assess the incidence, severity, and determinants of adverse drug effects associated with antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) among individuals seeking treatment at Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) Hospital and Pakistan Ordnance Factories (POF) Hospital. A cross-sectional observational research design was employed from December 2024 to March 2025 within the neurology department of the PIMS and POF hospitals. A cohort of 60 patients diagnosed with epilepsy, who have been receiving AED therapy, was selected through systematic random sampling. Data collection was facilitated through structured interviews and validated questionnaires, followed by statistical analysis utilizing SPSS version 26.0. The most frequently reported adverse events included dizziness (61.7%), fatigue (58.3%), and muscle weakness (68.3%). Noteworthy statistical correlations were observed between the implementation of combination therapy and an increased incidence of dizziness (p = 0.012), weight gain (p = 0.015), and severe allergic reactions (p = 0.032). Logistic regression analysis identified severe dizziness (odds ratio (OR) = 3.1, p = 0.004) and age exceeding 45 years (OR = 2.4, p = 0.018) as significant predictors for discontinuation of therapy. Adverse drug effects are notably prevalent among patients who are on polytherapy. These findings emphasize the necessity for personalized treatment regimens for high-risk groups and vigilant monitoring to optimize therapeutic adherence and enhance patient outcomes.

Keywords

Epilepsy, Anti-epileptic drugs, Adverse drug effects, Polytherapy, Seizure severity, Neurological disorder, Side effects.

Introduction

Epilepsy, also referred to as a seizure disorder, is a disorder of the brain characterized by frequent and repeated seizures.[1] Epilepsy is generally the hyperexcitation of neurons in which a single stimulation results in a series of repeating action potentials without a refractory period, rather than a singular action potential.[2] This occurs because of an imbalance between inhibitory and excitatory neurotransmitters.[3] This disrupts the normal functioning of the brain regions involved, resulting in the clinical manifestations of the particular kind of epilepsy.[4] With an estimated 50 million cases globally, epilepsy contributes significantly to the global disease burden. The estimated prevalence of active epilepsy ranges from 4 to 10 per 1,000 individuals at any particular moment. Epilepsy affects almost 5 million individuals worldwide annually. The annual incidence of epilepsy in developed countries is around 49 cases per 100,000 individuals. This number may reach 139 per 100,000 in developing countries.[5] According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in 2021 and 2022, around 2.9 million U.S. people aged 18 and older reported experiencing epilepsy.[6] Epilepsy is the most common chronic disorder of neurons, impacting millions annually.[7] Approximately 50 million individuals globally have epilepsy, with Pakistan exhibiting an estimated frequency of 9.99 per 1,000 inhabitants. The largest frequency is seen in persons under 30, with around 2 million cases.[8,9]

According to a population-based epidemiological study of epileptic patients in Pakistan, a potential etiology was identified in 38.4% of cases: 32% had a positive family history of epilepsy, mostly among siblings. Commonly identified triggers were fever (29.2%) and emotional problems (16.6%). Merely 3% of individuals with epilepsy attributed their condition to supernatural origins.[10] The primary therapy for epilepsy usually involves AEDs.[11] These drugs mitigate seizures by diminishing the abnormal electrical discharge in the brain that precipitates them. The prescription AED will be dependent upon the epilepsy type, seizure frequency and intensity, and the patient’s general health status.[12] The objective of therapy for patients with epilepsy is to attain a seizure-free condition without adverse effects at a minimum cost of treatment.[13,14] Approximately 60-70% of patients on AEDs can achieve their treatment goals.[15]

Different types of antiseizure medications are now available, each with varying advantages and adverse effects. The majority of seizures can be managed with a single medication. The concomitant use of drugs may exacerbate adverse effects, including fatigue and dizziness. Nevertheless, combinations of medications are sometimes required for certain epileptic patients who are not treated by single-line therapy.[16] A medicine with low efficacy but a favorable safety profile may seem more advantageous than a treatment with higher efficacy but causes clinically significant side effects.[17]

The extended retention of patients on their antiepileptic drug treatment is now recognized as a definitive indicator of clinical efficacy. It serves as a significant cumulative assessment of both effectiveness and safety profile over time.[18] Behavioral and cognitive side effects are the most common side effects of AEDs. Phenytoin and valproic acid cause more weight gain than carbamazepine. Careful monitoring of patients who are on polytherapy is required because of frequent behavioral side effects.[19]

The newer medications like topiramate, tiagabine, oxcarbazepine, levetiracetam, and zonisamide may exhibit improved tolerability, reduced drug interactions, and seem to alter cognitive functioning to a lower degree than older medications.[20] Lamotrigine also has a safer adverse effect profile than carbamazepine.[21] Lamotrigine (LTG) is extensively approved for use as an adjunctive therapy and as monotherapy for partial and generalized seizures in pediatric and adult patients.[22] A randomized double-blind research study including individuals with recent-onset epilepsy reported no therapeutic difference between lamotrigine and carbamazepine, but LTG has better tolerability.[23]

Timely recognition of these AEs improves patient safety, compliance, and overall quality of life. This also relates to economic benefits, as it reduces medical expenses and prevents unnecessary hospitalizations. Additionally, proper drug monitoring ensures that each patient receives personalized treatment, thereby enhancing efficacy and safety while minimizing side effects.[24] Moreover, evaluating high-risk groups can help prevent severe issues early. Therefore, the ultimate purpose of this research was to determine patient-reported adverse effects associated with AEDs and identify which factors were associated with these complications among patients at PIMS Hospital and POF Hospital, Islamabad.[25,26]

Methodology

Study area and duration: The study was conducted at the neurology outpatient department of PIMS and POF, two primary tertiary care teaching hospitals located in Islamabad and Wah Cantt, Pakistan, respectively. These hospitals serve as specialized care institutions for a large population from Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Wah Cantt, and adjacent localities. They comprise over 1000 beds across various inpatient and outpatient departments. The neurology departments at PIMS & POF manage a substantial number of patients with neurological disorders, including epilepsy. Data collection was conducted over three months, from 15 December 2024 to 15 March 2025.

Study design and subject: This was a cross-sectional study conducted in a hospital setting. Adult patients with epilepsy who were on AED treatment and attended routine follow-up in the neurology department in the study period constituted the study population. Patients were considered cases if they had received an AED within the past year. They were divided into two groups: patients with AEDs for ≤1 year and those with AEDs for >1 year. Exclusion criteria were incomplete records, AEDs for <1 year, and uncooperative or refusing patients.

Sample size and sampling method: A cohort of 60 patients was included in this study. A systematic random sampling technique was used to mitigate the selection bias and enhance the validity of the results. This ensured the accurate representation of the target demographic and increased the reliability of findings for our cross-sectional study design.

Inclusion criteria: A confirmed diagnosis of epilepsy alongside concurrent administration of anti-epileptic drug pharmacotherapy.

Exclusion criteria: Patients who opted out of participation or were incapable of providing informed consent. This methodology promotes a systematic, impartial recruitment process appropriate for hospital-based clinical settings.

Data collection procedures: Data were collected through a structured, interviewer-administered questionnaire. It was specifically designed for this investigation, alongside an assessment of their medical records. The questionnaire encompassed both open-ended and closed-ended questions addressing critical domains. These included demographic information, type of epilepsy, AED regimen, comorbidity, and any documented AEDs within the previous three months.

Patients were approached individually. The data was collected through face-to-face interviews. Also, the interviews were conducted in confidential settings to encourage accurate and truthful responses. This process was performed by trained pharmacy students or clinical personnel under the supervision of the principal investigator. All data collectors underwent a comprehensive one-day training session. Interviews were conducted in the patient’s preferred language, either Urdu or English. The gathered data was then evaluated for completeness, accuracy, and consistency. After that, it was entered into a secure database designated for analysis.

Ethical consideration: Ethical approval was obtained through a letter of permission from the respective bodies of PIMS and POF. Patients were informed of the study’s objectives, and informed consent was obtained. Patient confidentiality and participant anonymity were strictly maintained throughout the research process. No personal identifiers, such as names and addresses, were recorded on the data collection forms, and all information was handled in accordance with ethical research standards to protect patient privacy.

Results

Socio-demographic profile of study participants: A total of 60 participants diagnosed with epilepsy were included in this comparative evaluation of the adverse effects of AEDs. Most participants were aged <30 years (47%, n = 24), with males constituting 53% (n = 27) of the cohort. Only 8% of the participants were employed. 83% of patients were unemployed. Demographic characteristics of the patients are given in Table 1 below.

Variables Categories Frequency Percent Valid percent Cumulative percent
Age <15years
16-30 years
30-40 years
45-65 years
>65 years
13
20
15
11
1
21.7
33.3
25.0
18.3
1.7
21.7
33.3
25.0
18.3
1.7
21.7
55.0
80.0
98.3
100
Total 60 100.0 100.0
Gender Male
Female
36
24
60
40
60
40
60.0
100.0
Weight <15kg
16-35kg
36-50kg
51-75kg
76-90kg
>90kg
6
9
9
27
8
1
10.0
15.0
15.0
45.0
13.3
1.7
10.0
15.0
15.0
45.0
13.3
1.7
10.0
25.0
40.0
85.0
98.3
100.0
Marital status Married
Single
Other(divorced/widow)
13
32
15
21.7
53.3
25.0
21.7
53.3
25.0
21.7
75.0
100.0
Level of education completed. Primary level
High school /equivalent
Bachelor’s degree
Master’s level or higher
Don’t want to answer
20
11
5
5
19
33.3
18.3
8.3
8.3
31.7
33.3
18.3
8.3
8.3
31.7
33.3
51.6
59.9
68.2
100.0
Employment status Employed
Unemployed
Retired
Other
5
51
1
3
8.3
85.0
1.7
5.0
8.3
85.0
1.7
5.0
8.3
93.3
95.0
100.00

Table 1: Frequency, percent, and valid percent distribution of socio-demographic among the variables receiving anti-epileptic drugs

Figure 1: Age distribution of study cohort (n = 60)

Figure 2: Gender distribution of study cohort (n = 60)

Figure 3: Weight categories in study population (n = 60)

Clinical characteristics of the study cohort: 15 patients in the cohort have a family history of epilepsy. Only one person has epilepsy due to the use of drugs. Most of the participants (n = 27) have been suffering from epilepsy for more than 10 years. 1/4 of the participants (n = 15) experience more than 1 seizure per day. Twenty-four patients are experiencing a severe type of seizure, and 19 are suffering from a mild type.

Variable Category Frequency
 
Family history
 
Yes
No
Unsure
15
38
7
 
Root cause
 
Brain injury or trauma
Alcohol intake or drug use
Genetic factors
Metabolic disorders
Congenital brain malfunctions
18
1
15
12
14
 
Duration of epilepsy
 
Less than 1 year
1-5 years
6-10 years
More than 10 years
7
12
14
27
 
Current seizure frequency
 
Less than one seizure per month
1-2 seizures per month
1-2 seizures per week
1 seizure per day
More than one seizure per day
7
13
15
10
15
 
Severity of seizure
 
Mild
Moderate
Severe
Variable
19
13
24
4
Current AED therapy Yes
No
60
0
Monotherapy /combination therapy
Monotherapy/ combination therapy
Monotherapy

Combination therapy

33
27
Duration of therapy Less than 1 year
1-3 years
3-6 years
More than 6 years
7
8
16
29

Table 2: Clinical characteristics of the study cohort (N = 60)

Figure 4: Duration history of epilepsy in selected patients

Figure 5: Current seizure frequency in selected patients

Figure 6: Categories of severity of seizures in selected patients

Therapeutic regimen of study participants: Most participants (55%, n = 33) are on monotherapy, while (45%, n = 27) receive combination therapy. The most prescribed drug is carbamazepine in patients who are on monotherapy (n=11). Zonisamide and clobazam are the drugs that are mostly prescribed together in patients on polytherapy (n=9). Divalproex sodium is the drug that is mostly prescribed in combination with other AEDs. The drugs prescribed to patients in polytherapy, and monotherapy are given below in table 3.

AEDs prescribed Frequency Percent Valid percent Cumulative percent
Carbamazepine 11 18.3 18.3 18.3
Carbamazepine +brivaracetam 2 3.3 3.3 21.7
Carbamazepine + divalproex sodium 2 3.3 3.3 25.0
Oxcarbazepine + divalproex sodium 1 1.7 1.7 26.7
Clobazam 4 6.7 6.7 33.3
Clobazam + zonisamide 9 15.0 15.0 48.3
Divalproex sodium + levetiracetam 1 1.7 1.7 50.0
Divalproex sodium 5 8.3 8.3 58.3
Divalproex sodium + carbamazepine + levetiracetam 5 8.3 8.3 66.7
Divalproex sodium +levetiracetam 4 6.7 6.7 73.3
Gabapentin 2 3.3 3.3 76.7
Lamotrigene 1 1.7 1.7 78.3
Levetiracetam 4 6.7 6.7 85.0
Levetiracetam + divalproex sodium + clonazepam 2 3.3 3.3 88.3
Levetiracetam + oxcarbazepine 1 1.7 1.7 90
Zonisamide 6 10 10 100.0
Total 60 100.0 100.0

Table 3: Pharmacological agents prescribed for epileptic patients along with their respective frequencies

Figure 7: Most frequently prescribed AEDs to selected patients

Incidence of side effects: Among all the side effects, neurological side effects were predominant, with 62% reporting dizziness (44% moderate severity) and 58% experiencing fatigue or drowsiness (52% mild severity). Gastrointestinal effects included nausea/vomiting (34%) and constipation (28%). Musculoskeletal complaints, such as muscle weakness (68%), were frequently reported, while severe allergic reactions (e.g., difficulty breathing) occurred in 12% of participants.

Side effect/variable Yes (n) Incidence (%)
Dizziness 37 61.7%
Fatigue / Drowsiness 35 58.3%
Nausea / Vomiting 20 33.3%
Constipation 17 28.3%
Musculoskeletal complaints (muscle weakness) 41 68.3%
Severe allergic reactions (e.g., difficulty breathing) 7 11.7%

Table 4: Incidence of the most common side effects reported

Figure 8: Incidence of common adverse events reported by study participants

Prevalence of adverse effects in monotherapy vs. combination therapy: Table 5 summarizes the comparative analysis of the prevalence of the adverse effects associated with monotherapy vs combination therapy in the context of epilepsy management. The data indicates that the combination therapy is associated with markedly higher frequencies of dizziness (82% compared to 58%), weight gain (64% vs 38%), and severe allergic reactions (18% in contrast 6%) when juxtaposed with monotherapy, with each comparison yielding statistically significant p-values.

Adverse effect Monotherapy (%) Combination therapy (%) p-value
Dizziness 58 82 0.012
Weightgain 38 64 0.015
Severe allergic reactions 6 18 0.032

Table 5: Prevalence of adverse effects in monotherapy vs. combination therapy

Figure 9: Association of prevalence of adverse effects in monotherapy vs. combination therapy

Association between various clinical variables: Table 6 summarizes the outcomes of Chi-square tests conducted to investigate associations among clinical variables. It delineates a significant correlation between the type of AED and weight gain, gender, and dizziness, as well as other clinical factors such as employment status and seizure frequency. However, certain variables, including education level and age group, did not yield statistically significant associations.

Variable/Question Chi-square (χ²) Degrees of freedom p-value Significance (α=0.05)
Is there an association between AED type (mono/combination) and weight gain? 6.82 1 0.009 Significant
Is there an association between gender and dizziness? 4.15 1 0.042 Significant
Is there an association between AED type and severe allergic reactions? 8.24 1 0.002 Significant
Does employment status correlate with seizure frequency? 7.89 3 0.048 Significant
Is the family history of epilepsy linked to genetic root causes? 9.32 2 0.009 Significant
Does therapy duration correlate with side effect severity? 10.45 3 0.015 Significant
Is there an association between education level and AED discontinuation? 4.56 2 0.102 Not Significant
Does marital status correlate with cognitive issues? 2.34 2 0.310 Not Significant
Is the age group associated with AED type (mono/combination)? 5.12 4 0.163 Not Significant
Are musculoskeletal effects linked to AED type? 3.78 1 0.052 Marginal

Table 6: Summary of chi-square tests for associations between clinical variables

Association between demographic factors and treatment variables: Table 7 summarizes key statistical analyses about the association between demographic and treatment variables with ADEs of AEDs.  Chi-square tests revealed significant associations between gender and dizziness as a side effect. Females reported dizziness more frequently than males (χ² = 6.24, p = 0.012). Combination therapy was linked to higher fatigue rates compared to monotherapy (χ² = 4.87, p = 0.027). The Mann-Whitney U test indicated a significant gender-based difference in seizure severity. Males experienced moderate episodes of seizures, whereas females reported severe episodes (U = 1023, p = 0.043). The Kruskal-Wallis test demonstrated that longer AED therapy duration correlated with increased dizziness severity (H (3) = 9.67, p = 0.022). Logistic regression identified severe dizziness (odds ratio [OR] = 3.1, p = 0.004) and age >45 years (OR = 2.4, p = 0.018) as significant predictors of AED discontinuation. Subgroup analysis highlighted that combination therapy users had higher rates of weight gain (64% vs. 38%, χ² = 5.92, p = 0.015) and severe allergic reactions (18% vs. 6%, Fisher’s exact test, p = 0.032) as compared to monotherapy. All of this underscores the need for tailored monitoring in high-risk groups.

Test applied Sample question Test statistic p-value Significance (α = 0.05) Effect size / Notes
Chi-square test Is dizziness associated with gender? χ² = 6.24, df = 1 0.012 Significant Cramer’s V ≈ 0.22 (small–moderate)
Is fatigue associated with therapy type (mono vs. combination)? χ² = 4.87, df = 1 0.027 Significant Combination therapy → higher fatigue
Is weight gain associated with therapy type? χ² = 5.92, df = 1 0.015 Significant Combination: 64% vs. 38%
Fisher’s exact test Are severe allergic reactions associated with therapy type? Fisher’s Exact Test 0.032 Significant Combination: 18% vs. 6%
Mann-Whitney U test Do males and females differ in seizure severity? U = 1023 0.043 Significant Males: Median = Moderate; Females: Median = Severe
Kruskal-Wallis test Does therapy duration affect dizziness severity? H(3) = 9.67 0.022 Significant Longer therapy → higher dizziness severity
Logistic regression Predictors of AED discontinuation: Severe dizziness OR = 3.1 0.004 Significant Strong predictor
Predictors of AED discontinuation: Age >45 years OR = 2.4 0.018 Significant Older adults are more likely to discontinue
Predictors of severe allergic reactions: Combination therapy OR = 3.8 0.002 Significant Nagelkerke R² = 0.31
Predictors of severe allergic reactions: Age >45 years OR = 2.2 0.028 Significant

Table 7: Summary of key statistical findings for adverse effects of anti-epileptic drugs

Discussion

This study depicts that neurological side effects predominate the safety profile of anti-epileptic medicines (AEDs). The observed prevalence of central nervous system (CNS) adverse effects, such as dizziness (62%) and fatigue or drowsiness (58%), is consistent with global literature. This includes studies indicating that 74% of patients experience dizziness and 5–7% report fatigue. Our results showed that in comparison to monotherapy, combination therapy was associated with increased rates of side effects. These included fatigue (χ² = 4.87, p = 0.027), weight gain (64% vs. 38%, χ² = 5.92, p = 0.015), and severe allergic reactions (18% vs. 6%, p = 0.032). The increased risk linked to polytherapy further supports existing evidence.[26,27] All of this highlights the combination of regimens as a modifiable risk factor. Drug-specific profiles align with previous findings, including phenytoin-related gum hyperplasia and valproate-related adverse drug reactions (ADRs).[24,28] Our statistical studies revealed gender as a significant risk factor. Females reported dizziness more often than males (χ² = 6.24, p = 0.012), and had more severe seizures (U = 1023, p = 0.043). These align with studies indicating improved seizure control in females.[29] However, this is inconsistent with the literature, which does not include gender-based analyses.

Previous research connects polytherapy and age to reduced tolerability of AEDS.[25,26] This is also consistent with our results, which identify age above 45 years (OR = 2.4, p = 0.018) and severe dizziness (OR = 3.1, p = 0.004) as predictors of discontinuation. Furthermore, our analysis showed that in addition to gastrointestinal concerns such as nausea/vomiting and constipation, musculoskeletal problems, especially muscle weakness, were very common. This notably high incidence of muscle weakness (68%) in our cohort contrasts with standard CNS-focused adverse event profiles reported in the literature (e.g., 80% CNS effects).[24] This may indicate variations in regional prescribing practices or differences in the methodologies used for symptom assessment.

Limitations: The small sample size (n=60) makes it hard to generalize, especially when it comes to rare events like severe allergies. The single-center design could cause selection bias, and the cross-sectional technique makes it hard to figure out what causes AEDs and AEs. Patient-reported data may not be accurate because of recall bias in self-reported symptoms. This problem has been seen in several studies as well.[24,25]

Future perspectives: Future research should focus on larger-scale cohort studies that are multi-center, and there must be longitudinal follow-up of at least 2-5 years. This primarily allows monitoring of ADEs over time.[24,29] For severe ADEs, genetic and pharmacogenomic biomarkers must be investigated, which also facilitates personalized therapy and helps in the selection of such AEDs. Epilepsy is prevalent among children globally, yet there is a scarcity of data on the safety of these AEDS in pediatric patients. Hence, further studies in this demographic are necessary. Research must incorporate patient-reported outcomes, including cognitive function and mood disorders, alongside clinical adverse event data to evaluate quality of life comprehensively. Comparative studies on newer antiepileptic drugs (e.g., lacosamide, levetiracetam) in relation to older agents are necessary, as their representation in existing literature is insufficient.[30]

Conclusion

In conclusion, this study shows that neurological and musculoskeletal AEs are a big problem for people with epilepsy, especially women, older adults, and people who are on multiple medications. While it is consistent with evidence from around the world on the toxicity of central nervous system (CNS) – dominated AEDs, it stresses the importance of combination therapy in increasing the chances of AEs and points out useful signs that treatment should be stopped. The results show that personalized AED selection and tailored AE monitoring procedures are especially important for high-risk groups. To improve the effectiveness of epilepsy therapy and patient safety, we need to conduct extensive research. Also, we need more focused pediatric safety assessments and pharmacogenomic techniques.

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Acknowledgments

The authors declare that there are no acknowledgments to disclose.

Funding

The authors received no financial support.

Author Information

Corresponding Author:
Hamid Tariq Shah
Department of Pharmacy
Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, Pakistan
Email: hamidtariq283@gmail.coma

Co-Authors:
Aneesa Anjum, Adan Minal Asif, Amna Arshad, Waqas Siddiqe, Uswa Mansoor, Sahifa Ali, Soma Akbar
Department of Pharmacy
Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, Pakistan

Authors Contributions

All authors contributed to the conception, design, data collection, statistical analysis, literature review, and writing of this manuscript. All authors read and approved the final version.

Ethical Approval

Ethical approval was obtained in the form of a permission letter from the respective bodies of Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) and Pakistan Ordinance Factory Hospital (POF). Patients were informed of the study’s objectives, and informed consent was obtained.

Conflict of Interest Statement

The authors declare no conflict of interest.

Guarantor

Hamid Tariq Shah is the guarantor of the article and takes responsibility for the integrity of the work as a whole.

DOI

Cite this Article

Shah HT, Anjum A, Asif AM, et al. Evaluation of Adverse Drug Effects of Anti-Epileptic Drugs in Tertiary Care Hospitals. medtigo J Pharmacol. 2026;3(1):e3061311. doi:10.63096/medtigo3061311 Crossref