Pediatric Epilepsy and the Ketogenic Diet

Among our compounding specialties, we have developed a specific interest in pediatric epilepsy and the Ketogenic Diet.

What is the Ketogenic Diet?

The Ketogenic Diet is a restrictive high-fat, very low carbohydrate diet, primarily indicated for epileptic children who have difficult-to-control seizures. This diet is an alternative for children who do not respond to traditional anticonvulsant medications possibly due to excipients. By using the raw chemical, as opposed to the commercially available drug, we are able to compound medications that conform to the Ketogenic Diet (sugar / sorbitol / carbohydrate-free). 'Keto-friendly' flavored and sweeteners can also be added to liquid medications to make them more palatable, increasing patient compliance. In addition, our liquid preparations are fitted with an adapt-a-cap and syringe, making it easy for parents to administer the correct dose. The key advantage to the diet is seizure control. Many children with epilepsy can be helped by the Ketogenic Diet.

We are especially proud to have a certified technician, Arlene Vrablic, who has demonstrated a strong inclination to compounding medications for epileptic children. A compounding technician for over 18 years, Arlene has spent many hours talking with the parents of epileptic children and learned first hand about their concerns. She has worked with some of the most renowned doctors in the country and was named “Compounding Technician of the Month” by Professional Compounding Centers of America (PCCA), in 1993 and 2005. Arlene’s breadth of knowledge mirrors the commitment of HB Apothecary to the profession of pharmacy and the provision of quality service.