The carbohydrate and caloric content of concomitant medications for children with epilepsy on the ketogenic diet

Background. The ketogenic diet for children with refractory epilepsy requir es a strict control of the amount of ingested carbohydrates. This can be al tered by medication prescribed for the epileptic syndrome or for intercurre nt illnesses. The goal of this paper is to compile the carbohydrate and cal oric content of commonly used medications in this population. Methods: We c ompiled a list of frequently used medications with the help of Canadian man ufacturers and the Compendium of Pharmaceuticals and Specialties. We also t ested a worst case scenario calculation based on the weight of the tablet. Results: We list the carbohydrate and caloric content of 790 medications st udied. Our worst case scenario gives an over-estimate in all cases, making adjustments based on this calculation in an emergency setting safe. Conclus ion: We propose this list as a tool for physicians, dietitians, nurses and pharmacists. The list can easily be adjusted, based on local practices and reviewed periodically.