Praxis Medical Insights

Est. 2024 • Clinical Guidelines Distilled

Made possible by volunteer editors from the University of Calgary & University of Alberta

Last Updated: 8/15/2025

Neurological Effects on Hormone Regulation

Introduction to Hormonal Changes

  • The hypothalamic-pituitary axis is directly affected, leading to alterations in hormone metabolism and changes in peripheral endocrine glands, according to the American Academy of Neurology and the Endocrine Society 1
  • Reproductive hormone alterations occur, as reported by the Endocrine Society 1
  • Phenytoin therapy is associated with several effects on hormone regulation, including:
  • Long-term phenytoin therapy is associated with alterations in reproductive hormonal function through its enzyme-inducing properties, as stated by the American College of Clinical Pharmacology and supported by the American Academy of Neurology and the Endocrine Society 1