HomeAnswersNeurologyseizureTaking Versitol for seizures. Is it safe during pregnancy?

Is it safe to take Versitol retard tablets during pregnancy?

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The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Answered by

Dr. Hitesh Kumar

Medically reviewed by

iCliniq medical review team

Published At December 28, 2022
Reviewed AtOctober 11, 2023

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I have had a history of seizures for five years, but I do not get them regularly. The last seizure I got was before three years. I am on Versitol retard 200 mg tablets, and currently, I am pregnant. So is it safe to take this drug?

Answered by Dr. Hitesh Kumar

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

Tablet Versitol contains Carbamazepine, and if consumed during pregnancy (especially the first trimester), this drug is known to cause congenital disabilities (neural tube defects) in the fetus.

Hope this helps.

Thank you and take care.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

Thanks for the reply.

Can you please tell me what is the substitute for this drug for pregnant women?

Answered by Dr. Hitesh Kumar

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

The selection of antiepileptic medication will be taken based on the type of seizure, underlying etiology (if evident), control of seizures and side effect profile of the medicine. It is double sword decision to switch antiepileptics during pregnancy. If seizures are not controlled by new medication, seizure episodes during pregnancy may lead to abortion or fetal hypoxia (if prolonged seizures happen). I would suggest consulting physically with all your previous records for better understanding.

Either way, some of the following risks will remain.

1. If the medication is continued, causing good control, there is a risk of neural tube defects in the fetus, though no one can predict whether further seizures will happen on the same medication.

2. Switching to a new medication may disrupt seizure control.

Hope this helps.

Thank you and take care.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Hitesh Kumar
Dr. Hitesh Kumar

Neurology

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