New antiepileptic drugs and preparations

Over the past decade, several new antiepileptic drugs have become commercially available, including new formulations of some of the older medications. This article reviews these new medications, indications, and possible potential side effects. Emphasis is placed on pharmacokinetics because the new antiepileptic drugs are used primarily as adjunctive therapy, and interactions with other medications can result in significant toxicities. This article concludes with a discussion of issues related to seizure management in elderly patients, with focus on altered pharmacokinetics from drug interactions and altered physiologic function.