A review of the effects of vitamins and other dietary supplements on seizure activity.

The role of pharmacological and surgical management of epilepsy continues to expand, but these treatments are often associated with significant side effects and morbidity. As a result, many patients with epilepsy and their physicians alike have gained interest in the role of vitamins and other dietary supplements for seizure management. In this review, we examine the potential anticonvulsant and proconvulsant effects of commonly used dietary supplements, as well as their potential effects on cognition or behavior. Our review was conducted through a literature search focusing on clinical trials involving patients with epilepsy and their seizure response to dietary supplementation. We summarize findings from previous clinical studies and comment on practical considerations regarding dietary supplementation for patients with epilepsy. Copyright 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.