Reproductive Hormones in Epilepsy Therapy: From Old Promises to New Hopes

Abstract

A significant mutual interaction between sex hormones and the central nervous system has been reported by several studies in the past years. This paper aims to discuss the genomic and electrophysiological effects of androgens, estrogens and progestogens on neurons, their influence on seizure frequency and antiepileptic drugs metabolism, and, conversely, the hormonal changes and reproductive dysfunction in patients with epilepsy. In conclusion, the correlations between Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), reduced effectiveness of contraceptives and antiepileptic drugs have also been mentioned.