Abstract

RESENDIZ-APARICIO, Juan C. et al. Clinical guideline. Antiepileptic drugs of choice for epileptic syndromes and epilepsies in pediatric patients. Rev. mex. neurocienc. [online]. 2019, vol.20, n.2, pp.33-41.  Epub Mar 28, 2022. ISSN 2604-6180.  https://doi.org/10.24875/rmn.m19000056.

Approximately 65% of children with newly diagnosed epilepsy achieve sustained control of their epileptic seizures with the antiepileptic drug (AED) initially prescribed, and 15-20% require the combination of other AEDs. To begin treatment with an AED, basic aspects should be considered, such as the capacity for absorption, distribution, metabolism, and elimination of the drug. Treatment with an AED in pediatric patients, as for any age, must be personalized, but in these cases, the biological age and its degree of development are fundamental. Furthermore, the type of seizure, type of epileptic syndrome, comorbidity, in many cases the etiology, and even other aspects such as tolerability and availability of use must be considered. If adequate seizure control is not achieved, synergistic combinations could be used, making sure that adverse effects are not increased. Remember that a high percentage of patients initiate their epilepsy in the pediatric stage, which is why management in this age group is fundamental, and doses must always be calculated in relation to the weight of the patient.

Keywords : Antiepileptic drug; Monotherapy; Polytherapy; Childhood; Pediatric.