Effect of phenytoin and valproic acid therapy on serum lipid levels and liver function tests.

We conducted a case control study to evaluate the effect of phenytoin and valproic acid on serum lipids and liver function tests in epileptic children. Seventy-nine children receiving at least 6 months of antiepileptic monotherapy were categorized into two groups, depending on whether they were receiving phenytoin or valproic acid. Age matched healthy controls were also included. The mean total cholesterol (TC) in children on phenytoin therapy was significantly higher than the control group (P=0.03). Serum triglycerides, low density lipoprotein cholesterol, very low density lipoprotein cholesterol, and high density lipoprotein cholesterol, were not significantly different in the three groups. The proportion of children with TC > 200mg/dL was significantly higher in the phenytoin group. We recommend monitoring of serum lipids of epileptic children receiving phenytoin.