Evidence · Systematic review or meta-analysis
Treating the symptom or treating the disease in neonatal seizures: a systematic review of the literature.
- Fluids and electrolytes
- Medical
- Metabolic, endocrine and renal
- Neurology
- Seizures
Summary
This systematic review examines published literature (1949–2020) on pharmacological treatment of EEG-confirmed neonatal seizures, aiming to identify which drugs are most effective for specific underlying neurological disorders. Sixty-seven studies were included. It highlights good responses of genetic early-onset epilepsies to sodium channel blockers and an overall good response to levetiracetam, reported as safe in term and preterm newborns. It emphasises the limited evidence base guiding anticonvulsant use and considers potential harms to the developing brain.
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- Licence:
- Open (Creative Commons)
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