"Organic" pseudoseizures as an unrecognized side-effect of anticonvulsant therapy

Seizure. 2004 Oct;13(7):467-9. doi: 10.1016/j.seizure.2003.10.008.

Abstract

Although pseudoseizures are a cause of drug toxicity (as escalating doses are used in an attempt to suppress seemingly intractable spells), in this brief report the exact converse is argued: namely, that a sub-group of pseudoseizures may arise as a reversible idiosyncratic toxic side-effect of GABAergic anticonvulsants. The term "organic pseudoseizures" is used to denote this group of medication related behavioural alterations.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Anticonvulsants / adverse effects*
  • Electroencephalography / methods
  • GABA Agents / adverse effects*
  • Humans
  • Seizures / diagnosis
  • Seizures / drug therapy*
  • Somatoform Disorders / diagnosis
  • Somatoform Disorders / epidemiology
  • Somatoform Disorders / etiology*

Substances

  • Anticonvulsants
  • GABA Agents