Alternative medicine is commonly used by the families of children with epilepsy, but patients often do not mention it to their physicians, and there is a dearth of scientific evidence supporting many of the most common alternative therapies, according to a new review.
In the paper, published in Children (Basel), investigators said better studies into the use of complementary alternative medicine (CAM) in pediatric epilepsy would help facilitate better conversations between clinicians and patients and their families.
The study authors said treatment for epilepsy revolves around antiseizure medication, but they noted that about one-third of patients continue to experience seizures, despite medication.
Some families turn to CAM, a broad category that includes the use of dietary supplements, cannabis products, herbal remedies, massage therapy, or spiritual practice. The authors said the reasons families use CAM are equally broad, ranging from superstition to dissatisfaction with existing treatment options.
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