Docosahexaenoic Acid Plus Piracetam Versus Piracetam Alone for Treatment of Breath-Holding Spells in Children: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Background: Piracetam is the most widely used drug in breath-holding spells (BHS); however, its efficacy might not be satisfying to parents. This study aimed to compare the efficacy of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) plus piracetam with piracetam alone in reducing the frequency and severity of BHS in infants and preschool children.

Methods: This randomized clinical trial included two groups diagnosed with BHS. Group I included 50 patients who received DHA plus piracetam. Group II (control group) included 50 children who were managed with piracetam plus a placebo. Children were re-evaluated at one, three, and six months after treatment. Occurrences of BHS and drug side effects were recorded. The primary outcome was to evaluate the effect of the combined treatment of piracetam and DHA on the frequency and severity of spells.

Results: BHS were reported in only 16% of children six months after treatment with piracetam and DHA compared with 50% of those treated with piracetam only (P value = 0.001).

Conclusion: DHA plus piracetam is more effective than piracetam alone in decreasing the frequency and severity of BHS in children.