Levetiracetam in Neonatal Seizures As First-Line Treatment: A Prospective Study Publisher



Falsaperla R¹ ; Vitaliti G^{1, 6} ; Mauceri L¹ ; Romano C¹ ; Pavone P¹ ; Motamedgorji N² ; Matin N³ ; Lubrano R⁴ ; Corsello G⁵
Source: Journal of Pediatric Neurosciences Published:2017

Abstract

Aim of the Study: The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of levetiracetam (LEV) as first-line treatment of neonatal seizures. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted in patients of Neonatal Intensive Care Unit of Santo Bambino Hospital, University of Catania, Italy, from January to August 2016. A total of 16 neonates with convulsions not associated with major syndromes, which required anticonvulsant therapy, were included and underwent IV LEV at standard doses. Results: All patients responded to treatment, with a variety range of seizure resolution period (from 24 h to 15 days; mean hours: 96 ± 110.95). No patient required a second anticonvulsant therapy. Regarding safety of LEV, no major side-effects were observed. Conclusions: To our knowledge, it is one of the few studies confirming the efficiency of LEV as first-line treatment in seizures of this age group. LEV was effective in resolving seizures and was safely administered in the current study. © 2017 Journal of Pediatric Neurosciences Published by Wolters Kluwer - Medknow.