Determination of the plasma level is also valuable when the child develops symptoms that suggest drug toxicity. Identification of a plasma level in the toxic range in such a child usually indicates a need for reduction of the dosage. How often the plasma level should be obtained on a child taking anticonvulsant drugs is variable and depends on several factors. In those patients on low dosages of a drug whose seizures are well controlled, plasma levels are needed only one to two times per year. Conversely, when a child requires a high dosage, or is on multiple drugs, o rseizures are poorly controlled, plasma level monitoring at frequent intervals is sometimes necessary.
Some anticonvulsant medications have the potential to decrease the white blood cell count.
While problems with blood counts, liver, or kidney function are rare, blood samples from your child may need to be obtained on a periodic basis to make sure these organs are functioning normally. Whether your child needs to be monitored for any of these problems depends on the medication being taken. If your child becomes ill, be sure that the physician knows what medicines he or she is taking. All anticonvulsants act through their effect on the brain, since seizures arise from the brain. As a result, any anticonvulsant can lead to changes in personality, behavior or learning ability.