Men Also Need To Worry About Bone Health With Antiepileptics

Reduction in bone mass, or osteoporosis, is a common medical condition that's observered in the middle aged and elderly population. In fact, it is estimated that over the 10 million individuals in the United States are affected by reduced bone mass. Although these individuals are more susceptible to fractures in the spine or hip, bone fractures can occur anywhere and can be debilitating.

There are multiple risk factors associated with osteoporosis, including estrogen deficiency, advanced age, low calcium intake and lack of physical activity. However, there is another risk factor that can now be added to this list - individuals with epilepsy and taking antiepileptic drugs.

Not everyone with epilepsy is at a greater risk bone loss due to antiepileptic drugs. Certain antiepileptic drugs, such as phenytoin and phenobarbital, are associated with greater bone loss. In fact, a recent study published in Neurology suggests elderly men taking antiepileptic drugs are at an even greater risk of bone loss. So, any older men out there taking these medications should also be sure to schedule a bone density test and talk to their healthcare provider about their concerns.