Gabapentin for treatment of epilepsy in children.

Abstract

Gabapentin is a recently introduced antiepileptic drug for the treatment of partial seizures. Although studied extensively in adults, there have been few pediatric studies. It is a unique drug because it has no protein binding, is not metabolized, and is excreted through the kidneys. There are no significant drug interactions with other antiepileptic drugs nor do other antiepileptic drugs alter the pharmacokinetics of gabapentin. The drug is effective in partial seizures, although most studies have used the drug as add-on therapy. It is approved for use of partial seizures with or without secondary generalization in patients over the age of 12 years. The side effect profile of the drug is quite good. No significant idiosyncratic reactions have been reported. The most common side effects have included dizziness, fatigue, and headache. Rarely, children will have adverse behavioral effects, such as hyperactivity and agitated behavior. Usually these children have pre-existing behavioral disturbances. Although the spectrum of efficacy of gabapentin remains to be determined, it is likely to have a major beneficial impact on the treatment of childhood epilepsy.

• Authors: G L Holmes
• Journal: Seminars in pediatric neurology (Semin Pediatr Neurol) Vol. 4 Issue 3 Pg. 244-50 (Sep 1997) ISSN: 1071-9091 [Print] United States
• PMID: 9323792 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S., Review)

Chemical References

• Acetates
• Amines
• Anticonvulsants
• Cyclohexanecarboxylic Acids
• gamma-Aminobutyric Acid
• Gabapentin

Topics

• Acetates (pharmacology, therapeutic use)
• Adolescent
• Adult
• Amines
• Animals
• Anticonvulsants (pharmacology, therapeutic use)
• Child
• Clinical Trials as Topic
• Cyclohexanecarboxylic Acids
• Disease Models, Animal
• Epilepsy (drug therapy, metabolism)
• Gabapentin
• Humans
• gamma-Aminobutyric Acid