Evaluation of the Effect of Levetiracetam Monotherapy in Comparison with Sodium Valproate in the Treatment of Children with Generalized or Focal Epilepsy in a Randomized Clinical Trial

Epilepsy is a chronic disease with different effects on performance. It is important to control seizures in the shortest possible time using medications with the least side effects. There are controversies regarding the effectiveness and side effects of new generation medications, compared to old and first-line therapeutic agents. Therefore, this study aimed to compare the effectiveness and side effects of two medications, including sodium valproate (as a first-generation medication) and levetiracetam (as a second-generation medication).

All children over two and under 18 years old with a new diagnosis of generalized and focal epilepsy who met the inclusion criteria and were willing to enter the study were enrolled randomly. They were then divided into two groups of treatment with sodium valproate and levetiracetam. The frequency of recurrent seizures in patients and complications after taking the medications were accurately recorded with a six-month follow-up.

The results showed no significant difference of age, gender, and family history of seizures in the patients of both groups with the success rate in seizure control. Moreover, there was no significant difference between the two groups regarding the type of medication (sodium valproate and levetiracetam), type of seizure (focal and generalized), and success in treatment (seizure inhibition). Additionally, the group treated with sodium valproate revealed more significant side effects, compared to the levetiracetam group (P<0.05).

According to the results of the present study, both sodium valproate and levetiracetam have been effective in controlling seizures. More follow-up and further studies are required to take effective steps to control the costs and complications of anticonvulsant therapy.