A child with a history of seizures, controlled with an anticonvulsant, is brought to the clinic. His mother states that he has been very sleepy. To correct this, she reported that she cut his anticonvulsant dosage in half. How would you respond to the mother?

Explanation

• Anticonvulsants often cause drowsiness, interfering with daily activities. Anticonvulsants should not be stopped or reduced without consulting the physician, as this may increase the risk of seizures.

•Anticonvulsant dosages should be tapered, never stopped suddenly, because the body becomes dependent on it. Rapid withdrawal may precipitate a seizure.

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