Phenobarbital: Too much of a good thing?

Issue title: Neonatal Seizure

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Guillet, Ronnie

Affiliations: Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA

Note: [] Correspondence: Dr. Ronnie Guillet, University of Rochester Medical Center, Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Rochester, NY, USA. E-mail: ronnie_guillet@urmc.rochester.edu

Abstract: The treatment of infants with antiepileptic medications after the resolution of neonatal seizures is highly variable and controversial. Infants are commonly treated with phenobarbital after their seizures have resolved to prevent recurrence. Data to support this practice are lacking but animal models suggest that the neonatal brain is vulnerable to repeated seizures. Yet exposure of the developing brain to phenobarbital for prolonged periods may have deleterious consequences. We discuss current clinical practice and present information on risks and benefits of continued treatment with phenobarbital after resolution of neonatal seizures.

Keywords: Phenobarbital, neonate, seizures, brain development

DOI: 10.3233/JPN-2009-0266

Journal: Journal of Pediatric Neurology, vol. 7, no. 1, pp. 95-99, 2009