Received: 12 May 2026
Accepted: 04 June 2026
Published online: 17 June 2026
UDC: 616.853-008-085-07
DOI: 10.53511/pharmkaz.2026.3.1
MODERN ANTIEPILEPTIC DRUGS USED IN PEDIATRICS
Пивень Л.И.¹, Ким T.В.¹, Николаева T.Л. ¹, Aсанова С.Н.¹, Гаджиев И.Р.¹, Кушербай M.М.
¹ Некоммерческое акционерное общество «Медицинский университет Караганды», Караганда, Республика Казахстан
Piven L.I. ¹, Kim T.V. ¹, Nicolaeva T.L. ¹, Asanova S.N. ¹, Gadzhiev I.R. ¹, Kusherbay M.М.¹
¹ Non-profit Joint Stock Company “Medical University of Karaganda”, Karaganda, Kazakhstan
Introduction: Epilepsy is one of the most prevalent chronic neurological disorders, characterized by recurrent seizures resulting from excessive neuronal activity. Long-term, often lifelong, treatment with antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) remains the mainstay of therapy. In recent decades, significant advancements have been made in the development of second- and thirdgeneration AEDs with improved pharmacological and clinical profiles.
Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted using data from randomized clinical trials, systematic reviews, metaanalyses, and national and international treatment guidelines. The analysis focused on pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic properties, mechanisms of action, clinical efficacy, adverse effect profiles, and therapeutic advantages
of newer-generation AEDs.
Results: Second- and third-generation AEDs (such as levetiracetam, lacosamide, perampanel, brivaracetam, and others) demonstrate improved safety, better tolerability, reduced risk of drug–drug interactions, and enhanced efficacy in various forms of epilepsy, including pharmacoresistant cases.
Discussion: The findings support the clinical utility of newer AEDs within individualized treatment strategies. Nevertheless, important considerations remain regarding drug selection based on seizure type, comorbidities, age, and cost-effectiveness.
Conclusion: New-generation antiepileptic drugs offer promising opportunities for personalized epilepsy management, contributing to better seizure control and improved quality of life for patients.
Keywords: epilepsy, antiepileptic drugs, second generation, third generation, pharmacotherapy, efficacy, safety.
