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UK researchers analysed data on anti-epilepsy drugs given to nearly 8 000 children over a 13-year period, and found that the use of such drugs increased five-fold over that time, BBC News reported. In particular, there was a "massive" increase in prescriptions for three drugs - lamotrigine, topiramate, and levetiracetam.

"The uptake of these drugs has been rapid, yet their long-term safety has not been established and further research must now be seen as a priority," said lead author Professor Ian Wong, of the Centre for Paediatric Pharmacy Research in London.

He and his colleagues noted that many of the drugs have not been fully tested in children. This means that doctors have no official guidance on doses and have to estimate a safe and effective dose based on a child's age and size, BBC News reported.

Wong noted that there have been reports of multi-organ failure, renal failure, blood disorders and skin reactions in some patients taking lamotrigine. – (HealthDayNews)

June 2007
 

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