Is Gabapentin OK For Children?
- February 11, 2025
- Gabapentin
Gabapentin, which was initially formulated to act as an anti-convulsing medicine, has been useful in other neurological conditions. But when it comes to its use for children, it is of utmost importance to ensure that one understands its safety profile, indications, and possible side effects.
Approved Uses in Children
Gabapentin is approved for the following paediatric applications:
- Epilepsy (Seizure Disorders): For children aged three and above, gabapentin is approved by the FDA as a supplementary medicine for partial seizures. Studies have been done which show that children in this age group experience seizures with less frequency.
- Neuropathic Pain: Although gabapentin is prescribed to adults suffering from neuropathic pain, there is limited understanding of its use in children. A few studies, however, do show that gabapentin can be effective in children when other methods do not seem to work.
Precautions and Recommended Dosage of Gabapentin for Children
Administering gabapentin to children requires careful consideration:
- Dosage: The dosage is based on the child’s age, weight, and condition. Usually, treatment starts with very small doses which are increased slowly to reduce the chances of side effects. In the case of epilepsy, the usual starting dose is 10 to 15 mg per day per kg of body weight. This is given in three divided doses.
- Side Effects: Some of the common side effects noticed in children include daytime drowsiness, dizziness and fatigue as well as problems with coordination. A very small subset of children may experience mood swings including hyperactive or agitated states. These side effects, although bothersome, are usually of mild intensity and subside after some time with treatment.
- Monitoring: The medication effect is not only monitored for efficacy, but also looked out for adverse reactions. Regular check-ups allow to increase or decrease the dose while ensuring safety for the child throughout treatment.
Precautions and Warnings
Gabapentin is approved for the following paediatric applications:
- Alterations in Behaviour: Some children may show signs of aggressive behaviours, and hyperactivity as associated side effects of Gabapentin. These effects were reversible upon dose reduction or discontinuation of the medication. Children with pre-existing behavioural conditions may be more susceptible.
- Overdose and Withdrawal: Stopping gabapentin suddenly may result in withdrawal symptoms. Therefore, gabapentin should be stopped gradually in a medical setting.
- Drug Interactions: Gabapentin can interact negatively with other drugs containing aluminium or magnesium antacids as they can lessen the amount of gabapentin absorbed in the body. Gabapentin should be given at least two hours later than these antacids for better results.
Long-Term Use and Developmental Impact
The effects of long-term usage of gabapentin in kids are still being studied. A few factors that are to be considered are:
- Cognitive and Behavioural Effects: Use of the drug is usually quite effective, however prolonged use has the potential to adversely affect one’s learning, memory or other behavioural aspects.
- Dosage with Gaps: Even if gabapentin is not classified under controlled substances, prolonged use has been reported to cause dependence in some rare cases.
It is important to routinely check if continuous gabapentin usage is needed, or if they can consider switching to some other form of treatment, This way, they can determine if further monitoring is needed.
Alternative Treatments for Children
Aside from gabapentin, which is used to control seizures and neuropathic pain, different therapies might be useful depending on the condition of the child. Some of these are:
- Alternative Antiepileptic Therapy: Levetiracetam and lamotrigine are known to be effective for some types of seizures.
- Others include: Physical therapy and CBH nutrition therapy (including the ketogenic diet for epilepsy) are helpful and need no medicines at all or may be done in conjunction with medicine.
It is therefore recommended that parents have a discussion with the physician to come up with the appropriate treatment plan for their child.
Wrapping Up!
Gabapentin is a valuable medication for managing children’s conditions like partial seizures and neuropathic pain, but its use must be tailored to each child, monitored for efficacy and potential side effects, and maintained openly with healthcare providers.
