Seizure: Carbamazepine Toxicity and Other Probable Risk Factors



Salehi M¹ ; Eizadimood N² ; Yaraghi A² ; Khoshavi M³
Source: Journal of Isfahan Medical School Published:2012

Abstract

Background: Poisoning with carbamazepine is the third most common reason for status epilepticus seizure in the poisoning ward of Nour Hospital (Isfahan, Iran). No survey has been performed on the frequency of seizure among patients poisoned with carbamazepine. The relationship of such toxicity and other effective variables and treatment outcome have not been studied either. This study aimed to identify factors affecting seizure due to carbamazepine toxicity in order to help physicians make the correct decisions. Methods: In a retrospective study, information of every patient with carbamazepine toxicity who had been admitted in Nour Hospital was collected by census sampling method. Patients were then divided into two groups of with and without seizures. The two groups were compared using independent-t and Fisher's exact tests in SPSS15. Findings: During 1 year, 114 cases were admitted and 7% of cases experienced seizures. The mean dose of drugs and pH levels were significantly different between the two groups. The frequency of patients who were discharged with a complication or died was higher in the seizure group. Conclusion: Using high doses of carbamazepine increases the risk for seizure among poisoned individuals. In addition, patients with seizure are at higher risk for acidosis, complications, and death.