Background: Seizures are common following perinatal asphyxia and may exacerbate secondary neuronal injury. Barbiturate therapy has been used for infants with perinatal asphyxia in order to prevent seizures. However, barbiturate therapy may adversely affect neurodevelopment leading to concern regarding its aggressive use in neonates. The objective of the study was to determine the effect of administering prophylactic barbiturate therapy on seizure control and mortality in term neonates following perinatal asphyxia.