The Utility of Clonazepam in Epilepsy of Various Types

Clonazepam, a new anticonvulsant, appears to be useful for childhood minor motor seizures and for petit mal refractory to Ethosuximide and Trimethadione. It appears less effective in infantile spasms though may be beneficial when there is no response to steroids. It is variably effective in partial complex and focal epilepsy and may exacerbate tonic seizures. A transient disadvantage is the high incidence of side effects, especially lethargy and ataxia, though these may be transitory. Aggressivity and hyperkinesis may necessitate medication withdrawal. Some children who initially respond to therapy and then relapse may respond again to a higher dosage.