Intravenous levetiracetam for treatment of neonatal seizures

J Clin Neurosci. 2013 Aug;20(8):1165-7. doi: 10.1016/j.jocn.2012.08.014. Epub 2013 May 7.

Abstract

In this case series we report on eight neonates with refractory seizures who received intravenous levetiracetam when seizures did not respond to two or more conventional anticonvulsants. Six of the eight neonates had an excellent response with either cessation, or reduction in seizures by at least 80%. One neonate showed a partial response while one did not have any reduction in seizure frequency. We did not encounter any adverse effects that could be attributable to levetiracetam.

Keywords: Anticonvulsants; Levetiracetam; Newborn; Seizures.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Administration, Intravenous
  • Anticonvulsants / administration & dosage
  • Anticonvulsants / pharmacology*
  • Electroencephalography / instrumentation
  • Electroencephalography / methods
  • Gestational Age
  • Humans
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Intensive Care Units, Neonatal
  • Levetiracetam
  • Piracetam / administration & dosage
  • Piracetam / analogs & derivatives*
  • Piracetam / pharmacology
  • Seizures / drug therapy*
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Anticonvulsants
  • Levetiracetam
  • Piracetam