[Cognitive effects of antiepileptic drugs].

Factors which may contribute to cognitive impairments in epilepsy are briefly reviewed. In particular, memory deficits, attentional problems, psychomotor slowing and reading and writing difficulties are highlighted, and the impact of the seizures, brain damage, and anticonvulsant drugs on cognitive function noted. With regards to the latter, the impairments associated with Phenytoin and Phenobarbitone are contrasted with the minimal effects of newer anticonvulsant drugs such as Sodium Valproate and Carbamazepine.