Now double blind trials are underway in an attempt to document the efficacy and safety of the diet and identify factors associated with its success. The methodology and techniques developed at Hopkins are currently labeled as the traditional approach. The diet is typically used for children between 2 and adolescence, although it has been used successfully in limited numbers of infants and adults. Seizures often decrease very shortly after initiation of the diet, but some patients may not respond for months. It is not clear when the diet should be weaned from patients who are seizure free for extended periods of time.
Side effects can occur.
When the diet is started, some patients may become dehydrated and develop a clinically significant metabolic acidosis requiring intervention. The long-term impact of hypercholesterolemia is unknown but being studied. Aggressive supplementation with vitamins and carnitine are important to try to maintain adequate nutritional health and growth. For additional product information, consult the manufacturer. Read full disclaimer.