New antiepileptic drugs in childhood

Panminerva Med. 2002 Sep;44(3):221-5.

Abstract

In recent years, many new antiepileptic drugs have been available for the treatment of epilepsy in pediatric age. In this review, we describe these new antiepileptic drugs (vigabatrin, lamotrigine, felbamate, gabapentin, tiagabine, topiramate) which can be used together with "old" antiepileptic drugs (e.g. phenobarbital, valproate, etc.). We report their mechanisms of action, effectiveness, dosage and side effects; moreover, some practical advice for their use in pediatric patients is given.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anticonvulsants / administration & dosage
  • Anticonvulsants / adverse effects
  • Anticonvulsants / therapeutic use*
  • Child
  • Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
  • Epilepsy / drug therapy*
  • Humans

Substances

  • Anticonvulsants