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Multiorgan dysfunction and disseminated intravascular coagulation in children receiving lamotrigine and valproic acid
D S Chattergoon1, M A McGuigan, G Koren
1Division of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Insights
Lamotrigine, when added to valproic acid for epilepsy, may cause severe multiorgan issues and disseminated intravascular coagulation in children. Muscle damage (rhabdomyolysis) was also observed, suggesting potential muscular tissue involvement in this adverse reaction.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Neurology
- Clinical Pharmacology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Lamotrigine and valproic acid are commonly used antiepileptic drugs in pediatric populations.
- Adverse drug reactions can significantly impact patient outcomes, necessitating thorough investigation.
- Multiorgan dysfunction and disseminated intravascular coagulation are serious clinical syndromes with various potential etiologies.
Abstract:
Two children developed multiorgan dysfunction with disseminated intravascular coagulation 9 days after lamotrigine was added to their antiepileptic therapy, which included valproic acid. During the episodes, rhabdomyolysis was detected in one of them, while being seizure-free, suggesting that this adverse reaction may involve muscular tissue.