Pregnancy outcomes in women with epilepsy and MTHFR mutations supplemented with methylated folate and methylcobalamin (methylated B12).

Publication Title

Epilepsy Behav Rep

Authors

Emma M Lascar, Swedish Epilepsy Center, Swedish Hospital, Seattle, WA, USA.Follow
Nicole M Warner, Swedish Epilepsy Center, Seattle, WA, USA.Follow
Michael J Doherty, Department of Neurology, Swedish Epilepsy Center, Seattle, Washington.Follow

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

1-1-2021

Keywords

washington; seattle; swedish

Abstract

Antiseizure medications (ASM) may contribute to adverse fetal outcomes in pregnant women with epilepsy (WWE). Folate processing (Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase, MTHFR) gene abnormalities are common in women with epilepsy and depression. L-methylfolate supplements may bypass MTHFR deficiencies, yet their use in WWE during gestation or on fetal development is not well studied. We examine pregnancy histories of three WWE who supplemented with either folate or L-methylfolate and methylcobalamin (methylated B12) during pregnancies. Their pregnancy outcomes improved with L-methylfolate and methylcobalamin supplementation. L-methylfolate and methylcobalamin supplementation merits further study in WWE who have MTHFR mutations, fertility, recurrent miscarriage and or depression histories.

Area of Special Interest

Women & Children

Area of Special Interest

Neurosciences (Brain & Spine)

Specialty/Research Institute

Oncology

Specialty/Research Institute

Obstetrics & Gynecology