ABSTRACT

This study investigated the development of insulin resistance (IR) secondary to the use of valproic acid (VPA) and carbamazepine (CBZ), which are highly effective and frequently used antiepileptic drugs.

This cross-sectional prospective cohort study included 111 participants aged 15 to 64 years. Patients diagnosed with epilepsy were divided into 2 groups: those using VPA (n=45) and those using CBZ (n=35). Those groups were compared to healthy control group (n=31). Preprandial blood glucose, insulin, C-peptide levels were examined, and IR was calculated. Anthropometric measurements were taken.

A significant relationship was identified between VPA or CBZ use and development of IR (p<0.05). C-peptide level was significantly higher in patients who used antiepileptic drugs than in control group (p<0.05). Average body mass index (BMI) was not different between groups.

In patients under antiepileptic treatment, neuroendocrine dysfunction, such as insulin metabolism disorders, can develop in addition to common side effects. Thus, symptoms should be followed up carefully and patients should be evaluated in terms of side effects both before starting and during treatment.

Keywords: C-peptide, carbamazepine, insulin resistance, valproic acid