Which medication class is commonly used to manage epilepsy in children?

Anticonvulsants are the primary medication class used to manage epilepsy in children. This classification of drugs is specifically designed to prevent or control seizures, which are the hallmark of epilepsy. These medications work by stabilizing neuronal excitability in the brain, thereby reducing the incidence and severity of seizure activity. Common anticonvulsants prescribed for pediatric patients include carbamazepine, valproate, and lamotrigine, among others.

The other medication classes mentioned serve different therapeutic purposes. Antidepressants are primarily used to treat mood disorders and may not be effective in controlling seizures. Stimulants are typically prescribed for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and would not address seizure management. Antihistamines are used to treat allergies and do not have relevance in the management of epilepsy. Therefore, anticonvulsants are the appropriate choice for managing epilepsy in children.