Vitamin D deficiency in children on antiepileptic monotherapy and multidrug therapy

Abstract

The medical literature has recently focused on the effects of vitamin D on various aspects of health. In addition to its critical role in calcium homeostasis and bone mineral metabolism, it is now recognized as having a wide range of essential biological functions. The relationship between vitamin D, antiepileptic drugs, and bone health in people with epilepsy has been recognized for more than 30 years. Seizures have an inherent risk of injury, including fractures; comorbidities with poor bone health increase this risk, especially in children with motor performance seizures and children with impaired motor function and coordination. Many AEDs are inducers of hepatic metabolism of cytochrome P450.