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Updated: Oct 4, 2026

A Behavioral Screen for Heat-Induced Seizures in Mouse Models of Epilepsy
06:58

A Behavioral Screen for Heat-Induced Seizures in Mouse Models of Epilepsy

Published on: July 12, 2021

Prevention and management of febrile seizures

R J Baumann1

  • 1Department of Neurology, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington 40536-0284, USA. neu101@ukcc.uky.edu

Paediatric Drugs
|October 2, 2001
PubMed

Insights

Febrile seizures are common in children but generally benign. Preventative therapies offer limited long-term benefits and carry risks, with diazepam potentially useful in specific distressing cases.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Neurology
  • Epidemiology

Background:

  • Febrile seizures are the most common seizure type in childhood.
  • Extensive research exists on preventative measures and the natural history of febrile seizures.
  • Simple febrile seizures typically have a benign long-term prognosis.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the literature on febrile seizures, focusing on preventative measures and long-term outcomes.
  • To evaluate the risks and benefits of therapies for simple febrile seizures.
  • To discuss the appropriateness of interventions in specific clinical contexts.

Main Methods:

  • Review of epidemiological and clinical research literature on febrile seizures.
  • Analysis of studies on the efficacy and adverse effects of preventative therapies like phenobarbital and valproic acid.
  • Consideration of guidelines and practice parameters from pediatric organizations.

Main Results:

  • Epidemiological studies show a generally benign natural history for simple febrile seizures.
  • Daily phenobarbital or valproic acid can reduce seizure recurrence but risks may outweigh benefits.
  • Evidence does not support altering the slight increased risk of epilepsy with current therapies.

Conclusions:

  • Preventative measures are unlikely to improve long-term outcomes for most children with simple febrile seizures.
  • Adverse effects of daily antiepileptic therapy often outweigh the benefits of preventing short-term recurrence.
  • Oral diazepam during febrile illnesses may be considered for families experiencing significant distress from recurrent seizures.

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