Rectal administration of antiepileptic drugs in children.

Author(s): Graves NM, Kriel RL

Affiliation(s): College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis.

Publication date & source: 1987-11, Pediatr Neurol., 3(6):321-6.

Publication type: Review

This article reviews the current literature describing the use of rectally administered antiepileptic drugs. Individual antiepileptic drugs are discussed in regard to efficacy, toxicity, and rate of absorption. Absorption occurs through passive diffusion; therefore, solutions are absorbed most quickly. Paraldehyde, diazepam, secobarbital, and valproic acid are used when rapid effect for termination of prolonged or serial seizures is desired. Valproic acid, lorazepam, carbamazepine, and phenytoin all can be used for maintenance therapy.