Year: 2024 | Month: November | Volume: 14 | Issue: 11 | Pages: 334-339
DOI: https://doi.org/10.52403/ijhsr.20241139
Unlocking the Brain’s Symphony: A Case Study on How Anti-Epileptic Medication and Environment Affects One’s Behaviour
Manjima Sunil1, Sidharth Sunil2
1Department of Medicine, faculty of medicine, Tbilisi State Medical University, Tbilisi, Georgia.
2Department of Medicine, faculty of medicine, Queen Mary University London, Malta.
Corresponding Author: Manjima Sunil
ABSTRACT
Epilepsy, one of the most prevalent neurological disorders worldwide, is marked by recurrent seizures caused by sudden, irregular electrical activity in the brain. Anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs) remain the cornerstone of seizure management, but their use can result in significant cognitive and behavioral side effects, impacting patients' quality of life. This study explores a case of a 63-year-old female patient with epilepsy, focusing on the behavioral side effects associated with her AED regimen, which includes Epiliv 250, Lobazam, and Zeptol 200. Observed effects include aggression, irritability, and emotional lability, exacerbated by stressors such as medical visits. While AEDs effectively reduce seizure frequency, side effects related to mood, behavior, and cognition are common, often requiring dose adjustments and psychosocial interventions. This paper discusses the mechanisms behind these behavioral changes, from neurotransmitter modulation to neuroplasticity alterations, and emphasizes the importance of personalized treatment plans, routine monitoring, and family education. Addressing the broader behavioral impact of AEDs is crucial for optimizing therapeutic outcomes, as individualized care can help maintain patients’ overall quality of life while achieving seizure control.
Key words: behavioral changes, anti-epileptic drugs, epilepsy, seizures