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Neurology (Expert Forum)
Re: 8-year-old with seizure disorder
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Re: 8-year-old with seizure disorder
by CF-neuro-MD, Jan 01, 1995 12:00AM
Posted By CCF neuro MD* on October 20, 1998 at 08:40:00:
In Reply to: 8-year-old with seizure disorder posted by Laura B. on October 20, 1998 at 08:28:35:
My daughter is taking 500 mg of depakote daily for a seizure disorder. My
question has to do with the side affects. She has been taking it for six
months now, but is high strung, extremely moody, and eats little. I hear,
however, that depakote has the fewest side affects of the drugs for a
seizure problem. My question: are the above listed behaviors side affects
of depakote, or is she just having behavioral problems?
Mom.
Dear Laura,
Depakote can cause gastrointestinal symptoms (nausea, vomiting, anorexia, heartburn) in a range of 6-45% of patients on the medication. These symptoms are transient and rarely require drug withdrawl. GI discomfort (if present) may be diminiched by administering the delayed release preparations. INCREASED appetite and weight gain is common. Central nervous system stimulation and excitementhas been observed, and aggresiveness and hyperactivity are sometimes noted in children. Discuss these symptoms with your physician. If the symptoms are presenting a difficult problem the dose/preparation may need to be adjusted or another medication may need to be started. If ever you are interested in getting an evaluation by a pediatric epileptologist at CCF call 1-800-CCF-CARE for an appointment. Good Luck.
In Reply to: 8-year-old with seizure disorder posted by Laura B. on October 20, 1998 at 08:28:35:
My daughter is taking 500 mg of depakote daily for a seizure disorder. My
question has to do with the side affects. She has been taking it for six
months now, but is high strung, extremely moody, and eats little. I hear,
however, that depakote has the fewest side affects of the drugs for a
seizure problem. My question: are the above listed behaviors side affects
of depakote, or is she just having behavioral problems?
Mom.
Dear Laura,
Depakote can cause gastrointestinal symptoms (nausea, vomiting, anorexia, heartburn) in a range of 6-45% of patients on the medication. These symptoms are transient and rarely require drug withdrawl. GI discomfort (if present) may be diminiched by administering the delayed release preparations. INCREASED appetite and weight gain is common. Central nervous system stimulation and excitementhas been observed, and aggresiveness and hyperactivity are sometimes noted in children. Discuss these symptoms with your physician. If the symptoms are presenting a difficult problem the dose/preparation may need to be adjusted or another medication may need to be started. If ever you are interested in getting an evaluation by a pediatric epileptologist at CCF call 1-800-CCF-CARE for an appointment. Good Luck.
