Combination treatment with carbamazepine and clonidine in a case of epilepsy with ADHD

Abstract

In a child with epilepsy, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is found to be more prevalent in comparison to general population. In western literature for the management of ADHD, stimulants like Methylphenidate and non-stimulant like Atomoxetine are considered the first line drugs. Although no any robust findings are found that support the use of such drugs in cases of epilepsy with ADHD, still they recommend using these drugs in such cases. In our scenario availability of such drugs is a major hindrance for which second line drugs like alpha agonists are the only options available to us. Here in this case report we have used Clonidine along with Carbamazepine in the management of a 12 years child presented in our centre with episodes of seizure and ADHD and had shown significant improvement with these medications.