October
2007
Vitamins,help? Vitamins & Epilepsy
Though Epilepsy is considered a controlled disease, meaning that there are many prescription medications available to offset the debilitating effects of seizures, the effects of these prescribed medications may have negative effects towards optimum health. A large amount of research reveals vitamin deficiencies in epileptics and highly recommends the use of certain dietary supplements. Research shows supplementation with a daily multi-vitamin has shown a significant decrease in vitamin deficiency overall but there are still a few specific vitamin nutrients and minerals to keep your eyes on.
Epilepsy medication appears to cause an increased excretion rate of many vitamin nutrients and can be a significant concern in regards to pregnant women with increased risk of medication induced birth defects. In addition, many of these medications appear to increase highly reactive free radicals. Research recommends supplementing vitamins, especially Vitamin E due to its antioxidant properties, Vitamin B6, Vitamin B12, Selenium, copper, zinc, folic acid, and l-carnitine. Though epileptic medication appears to effect these nutrients it is highly recommended to consult a doctor or qualified medical professional about the potential benefits of supplements
A supplement of the B Vitamins 6 and 12 may be recommended since they are contributors to good nervous system health and metabolism which are two areas that prescribed medication for epilepsy appear to effect. As a matter of fact high doses of Vitamin B6 has been used in combination with epilepsy medication and proved safe and effective for some but the known risks of sensory nerve damage, with 200 mg or more daily, over time is proven. With careful consideration an increase in Vitamin B6 has shown therapeutic benefits not to mention the eliminating the risks of deficiency. Though Vitamin B12 does not appear to offer any therapeutic benefits the metabolic process relies heavily on Vitamin B12 which anticonvulsants generally create deficiencies of. While considered non-toxic Vitamin B supplementation may be correct mild deficiencies but any large addition should be supervised.
A deficiency of Folic Acid absorption occurs during the treatment of Epilepsy as does an increased risk of birth defects, primarily Spina Bifida. Though Spina Bifida has been linked to anticonvulsant medication and Folic Acid deficiency, supplementation of Folic Acid does not appear effective in reducing the risk where cessation of anticonvulsants does, especially during the first three months of pregnancy. Though not fully understood, the reason of embryo toxicity are thought to be related to liver enzymes and has been labeled toxicokinetic. Prolonged treatment with anticonvulsant medication also enhances Carnitine deficiency but the therapeutic use of Carnitine has proved inconclusive. Those who take prescribed medication for Epilepsy may wish to consider Carnitine supplementation towards optimum health but should discuss it with their doctor or qualified medical professional first. Increases without mega-dosing should prevent any deficiencies.
Zinc and Copper levels have consistently been reported low with prescription medications and supplementation of 1 to 3 mg of Copper should restore or insure a proper supply of this trace mineral. With Zinc it appears a little more critical with suggestions for proper supplementation being 20 to 40 mg three times a day, but with this increase it is recommended to check with a medical professional to supervise any large increase in supplement. A significant depletion of Selenium has also been reported. A trace mineral, Selenium is involved in many important functions throughout the body and with dietary sources often being inadequate a suggested supplementation has been recommended at 100 to 200 micrograms(mcg) daily. On a final note, alcohol and anticonvulsants can be a dangerous mix since they act synergistically to reduce mental clarity and coordination and increase drowsiness and dizziness. The recommendation is avoidance.