Epilepsy and vitamin D: a comprehensive review of current knowledge

Rev Neurosci. 2017 Feb 1;28(2):185-201. doi: 10.1515/revneuro-2016-0044.

Abstract

Vitamin D has been considered as neurosteroid, and its pivotal role in neuroprotection, brain development, and immunomodulation has been noticed in studies; however, our knowledge regarding its role in neurological disorders is still developing. The potential role of vitamin D in the pathophysiology and treatment of epilepsy, as one the most prevalent neurological disorders, has received less attention in recent years. In this article, we review the possible relationship between vitamin D and epilepsy from different aspects, including the action mechanism of vitamin D in the central nervous system and ecological and epidemiological findings. We also present the outcome of studies that evaluated the level of vitamin D and the impact of administrating vitamin D in epileptic patients or animal subjects. We also review the current evidence on interactions between vitamin D and antiepileptic drugs.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Anticonvulsants / therapeutic use
  • Brain / drug effects
  • Brain / physiopathology
  • Disease Models, Animal
  • Epilepsy / drug therapy*
  • Epilepsy / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Neurotransmitter Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Vitamin D / metabolism
  • Vitamin D / pharmacology*

Substances

  • Anticonvulsants
  • Neurotransmitter Agents
  • Vitamin D