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Neurology (Expert Forum)
Tegretol Level Affected by Added Exercise
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Tegretol Level Affected by Added Exercise
by Susan-Young, May 01, 1997 12:00AM
Re: Tegretol Level Affected by Added Exercise
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Posted by CCF NEUROLOGY MD on May 05, 1997 at 00:16:41:
In Reply to: Tegretol Level Affected by Added Exercise posted by Susan Young on May 01, 1997 at 11:43:42:
: Our 13 year old daughter is on 300 mg Tegretol per day to prevent seizures as a result of brain surgery two years ago to repair an AVM in her right frontal lobe (we are in the archives of this forum with previous question regarding seizures).
She has been seizure free for the two months she has been on the medication and blood tests have shown a proper therapy level.
She is trying to get back into shape by joining a summer swim team so she can try out for the track team next year in high school. Our neurologist had given her the OK for sports, with the exception of contact sports. Her coach brought up the question as to whether or not the possible change in her metabolism due to increased exercise, would affect the therapeutic level of the Tegretol in her system. Has is been shown that athletes need to ingest more of the medication for it to work, does their body process the Tegretol at a faster rate?
Thank you so much for your help in the past. This is a very valuable forum since sometimes we cannot get immediate answers from our very busy doctors locally. Your input is very much appreciated.
Susan Y.
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Dear Susan,
Tegretol is metabolized by the liver. The liver's metabolic rate is variable, person to person. The metabolic rate of the liver is affected by certain other medications as well as liver disease. The pharmokinetics of medication, (how a medication is absorbed, metabolized, amount of binding to proteins and excretion), is also variable and complex. Generally, one
s activity level does not affect the amount of medication they require. However, body weight does have some effect.
I would suggest you encourage your daughter to exercise and join others in sports. Not only will it have an impact on her health, but it will possible improve her quality of life, self esteem and social interaction. It is a great way to resume her normal activities. Caution must be used in the sports that she chooses to avoid the risk of injury if a seizure does occur. One must be very cautious with swimming. People with uncontrolled seizures are recommended to avoid swimming. If she chooses to swim, she must always swim in the presence of an experienced life guard because of the risk of drowning if a seizure occurs while she is in the water. She should clearly understand this risk if she is going to participate. Track has less risks and is a good option. Aerobic exercise and weight training will also increase her strength and endurance when running.
Educating her coaches as well as team members is the best way to ensure her saftey and ability to have a good time. Her neurologist will most likely be checking her tegretol levels periodically as she grows, and change her medication dose accordingly. I hope she has a fun and enjoyable summer.
