1. Which of the anti-epileptic drugs affect the metabolism of the Pill (oral contraceptive) and what are the implications of this? Which drugs are safe to use in combination with the Pill? 

The drugs that affect the metabolism of the Pill, induce the cytochrome P450 enzyme, which decreases the efficacy of the Pill.

2. Can oral contraceptives also affect the effectivity of the anti-epileptic drugs?

• Yes, the serum levels of the anti-epileptic drugs will decrease

3. How does age affect the kinetics of these drugs (from neonates to old age)?

• Neonates have a slower metabolism than children
• Babies and children metabolise the drug faster than adults
• In adults, the metabolism varies due to the severity of the epilepsy
• Geriatrics also have a lower hepatic metabolism therefore lower dosages are needed

4. In which cases is plasma blood level monitoring indicated?

• When phenytoin is used because there is saturated metabolism in the liver
• When carbamazepine is used as it is an auto-inducer
• Drugs that have long and short t_1/2
• Drugs that may cause transient toxicity