Levetiracetam in the treatment of pediatric headache

ObjectiveThe study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy and safety of levetiracetam in migraine prophylaxis in young patients.MethodsTen consecutive patients aged 12–21 years with typical or atypical migraine were reviewed prior to and following the administration of levetiracetam for 6 months (750–2250 mg/day).ResultsHeadache score, duration, and frequency showed considerable improvement in all patients compared to baseline. Headaches were eliminated in 3 patients. Electroencephalogram showed dysrhythmia grade 2 or 3 at baseline, which improved to grade 1 in all patients following the treatment period.ConclusionIn this pilot study, levetiracetam was effective and well tolerated. The improvements in headache outcomes in this group of patients may be due, in part, to the effect of levetiracetam on electroencephalogram dysrhythmias. These preliminary results of levetiracetam seem to be promising in relieving headaches in the pediatric age group.