Clues to the genetic influences of drug responsiveness in epilepsy

Abstract

Despite the introduction of newer antiepileptic drugs (AEDs), nonresponsiveness to AEDs remains a common problem in epilepsy clinics. There may be important genetic determinants for responsiveness, and this discussion focused on some potential areas: drug transporters; drug-metabolizing enzymes, and ion channels. We review the literature and speculate the contribution of each of these factors in management of patients with epilepsy in the future.