Gabapentin has been used for many years to treat children with partial seizures. It is not effective for absence seizures, however, and may even make them worse.

The package insert for gabapentin warns that about 6% of children aged 3 to 12 in studies of gabapentin had new behavioral problems or trouble with thinking, especially concentration. Parents should report any changes of this type to the doctor.

To keep side effects at a minimum, the doctor probably will prescribe a low dose to start and increase it slowly. Children usually start with a dose of 10 to 15 milligrams (mg) for each kilogram (kg, about 2.2 pounds) of their body weight per day. This is usually given in 3 equal doses.

The dosage is then slowly increased as needed, as long as side effects are not troublesome. Most children do best at about 25 to 60 mg per kg per day, split into 3 doses.