Q: My five months old daughter suddenly got fits a week back. I consulted a doctor who suggested me to use Gardinal for six months. Two days back, I consulted another doctor who asked me to stop Gardinal and prescribed Epival for two years. Which of the two medicines should I give to her?

A:If the child has had a single fit, her blood tests such as calcium, phosphorus were normal, an EEG and neurological examination is normal, do not start any medicines. If the child has had more than one convulsion, then she needs to be evaluated by a child neurologist. If a medicine has to be given to a five months old infant, Gardinal would be better choice. Further, it may not be necessary to give medicines for two years if she does not have more fits; if her examination and development is normal, and imaging of the brain was normal. A period of 6-12 months may just be okay.