Since there is a significant degree of variability in the results of previous studies and there exists a thirst for local data regarding this topic, the current study was planned, with the objective of comparing the efficacy of levetiracetam versus valproic acid in pediatric patients with status epilepticus.
Early and sustained control of seizures is paramount in status epilepticus to save the life of the patient, and this warrants the use of the best drug based on evidence. Identifying a better drug in status epilepticus would add to the local data and help clinicians in making evidence-based decisions to opt for an appropriate treatment in case of failed response to benzodiazepines.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
NONE
Enrollment
138
Patients were treated with intravenous levetiracetam (LEV) 20 mg/kg over 15 minutes, followed by 60 mg/kg/day in two divided doses over 24 hours.
Patients received intravenous valproic acid at 15 mg/kg over 15 minutes, followed by 20 mg/kg/day in two divided doses over 24 hours.
Nishtar University Hospital
Multan, Punjab Province, Pakistan
Sustained control of seizure activity
Sustained control was labeled when there was no seizure activity on EEG and regain of consciousness for ≥ 24 hours
Time frame: 24 hours
Immediate cessation of seizure activity
Immediate cessation was defined as cessation of seizure activity within 15-30 minutes, after completion of drug infusion.
Time frame: 30 minutes
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