Psychiatric and behavioural disorders in children with epilepsy (ILAE Task Force Report): Epilepsy and ADHD

Abstract

ADHD occurs in about 30% of children with epilepsy. The causes of ADHD features include some antiepileptic drugs, the epilepsy itself and underlying brain dysfunction. Management of the ADHD will depend on the cause. Treatment with methylphenidate is effective in about 70% of cases; standard treatments with methylphenidate, dexamfetamine and atomoxetine are very unlikely to exacerbate seizures.