Comparative neurocognitive effects of 5 psychotropic anticonvulsants and lithium.

Abstract

The relative neurocognitive effects of the various psychotropic antiepileptic drugs in patients with bipolar disorder were concordant with those described in the seminal literature in normal volunteers and patients with epilepsy. LMTG and OCBZ had the least neurotoxicity, and TPM, VPA, and CBZ had the most. LIT effects on neurocognition were intermediate. Choosing a mood-stabilizing drug with minimal neurocognitive effects may enhance patient compliance over the long term.