Effect Of Melatonin as a Prophylaxis for Febrile Convulsion

Sara Abdulrahman  Salim; Kawes Omer  Zangana

doi:10.56056/404

Authors

Sara Abdulrahman Salim M.B.Ch.B., Raparin Teaching Hospital, Kurdistan Higher Council of medical Medical Specialties (KHCMS), Erbil.
Kawes Omer Zangana M.B.Ch.B., D.C.H., F.I.B.M.S (Pediatric), Assistant Professor at College of Medicine-Hawler Medical University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.56056/404

Keywords:

Antiepileptic, Febrile seizure, Melatonin, Neuroprotective

Abstract

Background and objective: The efficacy of melatonin for febrile seizure prevention has been demonstrated in various studies. Febrile seizures are common in children and can be a cause of significant concern for parents. Melatonin is a hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles and has neuroprotective properties. This study evaluates the effectiveness of melatonin in preventing febrile seizures. We searched to determine whether melatonin can reduce the frequency and severity of febrile seizures compared to a placebo.

Methods:

A clinical trial study was conducted at Raparin Teaching Hospital from January to June 2023. Patients with febrile seizures were divided into two cohorts: 38 in the melatonin group and 39 in the control group. In the melatonin group melatonin administered every 8 hours for 48 to 72 hours during febrile episodes, while the control group received no medication. Both groups were followed up after six months.

Results: There were no significant differences in age, gender, seizure onset age, or number of attacks between both groups. They had similar fever histories over the past six months (p = 0.672). However, 34.8% of the control group had seizures after six months compared to 5% of the melatonin group (p = 0.024). In the melatonin group, 15% experienced dizziness, 5% had headaches, and 80% had no side effects.

Conclusions: We advise using melatonin to prevent recurring febrile seizures, avoiding the negative effects of other anticonvulsant drugs.

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