Affiliations: Department of Pediatric Neurology, Starship Children's
Hospital, Auckland, New Zealand | Division of Pediatric Neurology, University of
California, San Diego, USA
Note: [] Correspondence: Richard H. Haas, M.B, B.Chir., M.R.C.P.,
Division of Pediatric Neurology, University of California San Diego, 9500
Gilman Drive La Jolla, CA 92093-0935, USA. Tel.: +1 858 822 6700; Fax: +1 858
822 6707; E-mail: rhaas@ucsd.edu
Abstract: Levetiracetam has properties which make it a promising candidate for
the treatment of neonatal seizures. The mechanism of action and evidence of
broad spectrum clinical efficacy in adults and older children is reviewed along
with the limited reported experience in neonates. The safety profile,
pharmacokinetic properties and evidence of neuroprotective qualities are
discussed together with the current status of pharmacokinetic studies in
neonates.
