Child's EEG Report Shows Generalized Seizure Disorder. Using Levipil. How Long To Continue Medication?

Posted on Sat, 8 Sep 2012

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sat, 8 Sep 2012 Answered on

Sun, 30 Sep 2012 Last reviewed on

Question : Sir I AAAAA, my son now at 7 month EEG test report is Generalised seizures disorder. presently my son wieght is 7.25 kg and we are using levipil syp how much time it continue and how it will effect

Answered by Dr. Sudhir Kumar (9 hours later)

Hi Mr XXXXXXX
Thank you for contacting Healthcare Magic.
As per EEG report, your son has generalized epilepsy. Levipil (levetiracetam) is a good drug to control epilepsy. It has good efficacy and good safety profile.
The minimum duration of treatment is three years. If your son remains free of seizures (fits) during this period, and EEG becomes normal, it may be possible to reduce the dose and stop the medications.
After good treatment of epilepsy, we do not expect any adverse effect on the child's growth and development and he can do well in studies too.
I hope it clarifies. Please get back if you have any additional queries.
Best wishes,
Dr Sudhir Kumar MD DM (Neurology) XXXXXXX Consultant Neurologist
Apollo Hospitals, Hyderabad

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Sudhir Kumar (2 hours later)

now my son weight 7.25kg what is dose to take pls mention

Answered by Dr. Sudhir Kumar (1 hour later)

The starting dose of levetiracetam in your child should be 10 mg/kg given twice daily (20 mg/kg per day). The dose can be gradually increased to 25 mg/kg twice daily (50 mg/kg per day).
The exact dose in the child depends on the effectiveness in controlling seizures as well as any side effects. I suggest you discuss with your treating doctor regarding the exact dose required for your child.
Best wishes,
Dr Sudhir Kumar MD DM (Neurology) XXXXXXX Consultant Neurologist
Apollo Hospitals, Hyderabad

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar