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The management of epilepsy in children: cognitive and behavioral side effects

Douglas R Nordli1

  • 1Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, Children's Memorial Hospital, Chicago, IL, USA.

Reviews in Neurological Diseases
|January 10, 2006
PubMed

Insights

Children with epilepsy need better monitoring for cognitive and behavioral issues linked to anticonvulsant drugs (AEDs). This review suggests optimizing neurological and psychological well-being through vigilant assessment and multidisciplinary care.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Neurology
  • Child Psychology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Epilepsy significantly impacts children, yet data on cognitive and behavioral side effects of anticonvulsant drug (AED) use is limited.
  • Understanding these effects is crucial for comprehensive pediatric epilepsy management.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review and suggest approaches for optimizing the neurological and psychological well-being of children with epilepsy.
  • To highlight the importance of monitoring cognitive and behavioral aspects alongside seizure control.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review focusing on cognitive and behavioral outcomes in pediatric epilepsy.
  • Analysis of potential adverse effects associated with older AEDs.
  • Synthesis of multidisciplinary treatment strategies.

Main Results:

  • Identified a gap in knowledge regarding AED-related cognitive and behavioral side effects in children.
  • Emphasized the need for proactive evaluation of neurological and psychological health.
  • Highlighted the risks associated with certain older AEDs.

Conclusions:

  • A multifaceted approach is recommended for managing children with epilepsy.
  • This includes vigilant assessment of cognitive and behavioral issues and awareness of AED side effects.
  • Integration of multidisciplinary treatments is key to enhancing overall well-being.

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