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Behavioral side effects of gabapentin in children
D O Lee1, R J Steingard, M Cesena
1Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA.
Epilepsia
|January 1, 1996
Summary
Gabapentin (GBP) can cause behavioral side effects like aggression and tantrums in children with ADHD. These adverse events were reversible upon reducing or stopping the medication.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Neurology
- Child Psychiatry
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Gabapentin (GBP) is an anticonvulsant and analgesic medication.
- Adjunctive use of GBP is common in pediatric populations.
- Behavioral side effects of GBP are not well-characterized in children.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report behavioral side effects observed in children receiving adjunctive gabapentin.
- To describe the nature and reversibility of these adverse events.
Main Methods:
- Case series reporting on 7 children.
- Observation of behavioral changes after initiation of gabapentin.
- Assessment of reversibility through dose modification or discontinuation.
Main Results:
- Seven children developed new or intensified behavioral issues including tantrums, aggression, hyperactivity, and defiance.
- All reported behavioral changes were reversible.
- Dose reduction or discontinuation of gabapentin led to resolution of symptoms.
Conclusions:
- Gabapentin may be associated with significant behavioral side effects in children, particularly those with pre-existing ADHD and developmental delays.
- Close monitoring for behavioral changes is warranted in pediatric patients on gabapentin.
- Management involves dose adjustment or cessation of the medication.