Inhibitory effects of selected antiepileptics on spontaneous motility of isolated human oviducts.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: Spontaneous motility of the human oviduct is an important factor in the regulation of fertility that can be influenced by a variety of substances. In this study we examined the effects of several antiepileptic drugs on spontaneous contractions of isolated human oviducts. METHODS: The isolated ampullar and isthmic segments of Fallopian tubes, taken from 34 patients with extensive uterine fibroids, were exposed to carbamazepine, lamotrigine, valproic acid, phenobarbital, diazepam and lorazepam. RESULTS: Carbamazepine and lamotrigine produced concentration-dependent inhibition of spontaneous contractions of both ampullar and isthmic isolated preparations, while the other investigated substances did not exhibit any effect. The effective concentrations of carbamazepine and lamotrigine fall within the range of their therapeutic serum concentrations. CONCLUSION: When choosing antiepileptics for women of reproductive age, the effects of the drug on motility of the Fallopian tubes should also be considered.