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Researchers compared antiseizure medications in adults with epilepsy who were receiving direct oral anticoagulants.
Levetiracetam and strong enzyme-inducing drugs were linked to higher thromboembolic risk.
Valproate was linked to increased intracranial bleeding and mortality compared with a reference group.
The study used electronic health record data from a retrospective cohort design.
Why it mattersThe study could change prescribing choices for people taking epilepsy medicines alongside anticoagulants, where interactions may raise bleeding or clotting risks.
More context
The findings underscore the need for careful drug selection to balance clotting and bleeding risks.