Antibiotic-induced convulsions

Crit Care Clin. 1997 Oct;13(4):741-62. doi: 10.1016/s0749-0704(05)70367-5.

Abstract

Convulsive episodes are associated with the use of a number of antimicrobial agents. Although seizures may be a feature of the disease being treated, antibiotics should be considered possible causes of seizures, particularly if suggested by temporal relationships between seizure activity and drug administration. The astute clinician should be aware of the clinical settings in which antibiotic-induced seizures occur, be familiar with likely agents and their mechanisms of toxicity, and be prepared to institute appropriate management directed at this adverse effect of antimicrobial therapy.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / adverse effects*
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Receptors, GABA / metabolism
  • Risk Factors
  • Seizures / chemically induced*
  • Seizures / therapy
  • gamma-Aminobutyric Acid / physiology

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents
  • Receptors, GABA
  • gamma-Aminobutyric Acid