In some instances, these personality changes are temporary and diminish after a few days to a couple of weeks. In others, they persist until the drug is stopped. If the child's behavior becomes a significant problem when phenobarbital is begun, then a different anticonvulsant will be considered. Children with an allergy to Phenobarbital will develop a skin rash 7-20 days after they begin taking the drug. This type of reaction usually requires immediate discontinuation of the drug and evaluation by a physician.
Toxic symptoms are symptoms experienced when the blood Phenobarbital level is too high.
Early toxic symptoms may include staggering, drowsiness, or slurred speech. We will usually recommend checking a Phenobarbital level 4 weeks after reaching a therapeutic dose and then every 4-12 months thereafter. You should inform your Neurologist if your child is taking any other medications. Your local pharmacist can often be helpful in informing you of known drug interactions between the medications your child is taking. All rights reserved.