Differential effects of levetiracetam, carbamazepine, and lamotrigine on reproductive endocrine function in adults.

ABSTRACT

Animal studies have shown endocrine changes after levetiracetam treatment. The present study investigated reproductive and sexual function in patients with epilepsy (aged 18-45) treated with levetiracetam (LEV 30 men/26 women), carbamazepine (CBZ 63 men/30 women), or lamotrigine (LTG 37 men/40 women) monotherapy and in healthy controls (36 men/44 women). In women, no endocrine changes were observed during LEV treatment, whereas steroid hormone-binding globulin levels were greater and progesterone levels lower in women using CBZ. Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate levels were higher and androstenedione levels lower in LTG-treated women. Arizona Sexual Experience Scale scores, which were significantly lower in females using LTG or LEV, suggesting they have better sexual function than CBZ users and controls. In men, no drug-specific hormonal pattern was observed after LEV treatment. Male patients in all treatment groups had lower androstenedione and free testosterone. Those using CBZ had lower free androgen indices and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate levels, and higher steroid hormone-binding globulin, follicle-stimulating hormone, and luteinizing hormone levels. Arizona Sexual Experience Scale scores for men were similar in all groups. In conclusion, LEV treatment apparently has no drug-specific sexual or endocrine side effects in men or women in this age group.