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, the mother reports that she cut his anticonvulsant dosage in half. How would you respond to the mother?

Explanation

• Anticonvulsants often cause drowsiness, but this side effect may be reduced in time.

• The nurse should advise the mother that "You should not change the dosage without talking to the physician first."

• Anticonvulsants should not be stopped or reduced without consulting the physician, as rapid withdrawal may precipitate a seizure.

• Discontinuation is usually done carefully over time on a tapering schedule prescribed by a physician.

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