[Use of psychoactive and antiepileptic drugs: guidelines for pediatricians].
OBJECTIVE
To review the guidelines for the use of psychoactive and antiepileptic drugs in childhood and adolescence.


METHODS
Literature review.


RESULTS
The clinical indications, dosage and side effects of psychoactive and antiepileptic drugs are presented. The use of psychoactive drugs is increasing due to the release of new drugs and to the better understanding of emotional disorders in children and adolescents.


CONCLUSIONS
The use of antiepileptic and psychoactive drugs in childhood requires extensive knowledge concerning pharmacokinetics and deleterious side effects. An adequate choice of drugs is essential to ensure a successful treatment.
Rocha
Gibsi P
GP
Faculdade de Medicina, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre. GibsiR@aol.com
Batista
Bianca H
BH
Nunes
Magda L
ML
D000293:Adolescent; D000341:Affective Disorders, Psychotic / Q000188:drug therapy*; D000927:Anticonvulsants / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D001714:Bipolar Disorder / Q000188:drug therapy; D002648:Child; D002659:Child Development Disorders, Pervasive / Q000188:drug therapy; D004827:Epilepsy / Q000188:drug therapy*; D006801:Humans; D017410:Practice Guidelines as Topic; D011619:Psychotropic Drugs / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*
D000927:Anticonvulsants; D011619:Psychotropic Drugs