[Therapeutic exercise as treatment for migraine and tension-type headaches: a systematic review of randomised clinical trials]

AIM. To analyse the effectiveness of therapeutic exercise on migraines and tension-type headaches (TTH). MATERIALS AND METHODS. Electronic databases were used to search the literature for relevant articles. Eligibility criteria were: controlled randomised clinical trials (RCT), conducted on patients with migraine or TTH, in which the therapeutic intervention was based on therapeutic exercise, and the papers had been published in English and Spanish. Two independent reviewers performed the analysis of the methodological quality using the Delphi scale. RESULTS. Ten RCT were selected, seven of which offered good methodological quality. According to all the studies analysed, the intensity and frequency of pain diminished in comparison to the situation prior to establishing therapeutic exercise, and in five studies the effect was higher than in the control group. The qualitative analysis showed strong evidence of the absence of adverse events following the application of therapeutic exercise. Furthermore, strong evidence was also found of the effect of physiotherapeutic treatment, including therapeutic exercise, in lowering the intensity, frequency and duration of pain in patients with TTH. Limited evidence was also found of the effectiveness of aerobic exercise in patients with migraine, although it was not better than the effects derived from other forms of treatment. CONCLUSIONS. Results show that therapeutic exercise is a safe treatment that provides beneficial effects on migraines or TTH. Further RCT are required in the future with appropriate methodological designs to confirm these results.

Obesity consults--comprehensive obesity management in 2013: understanding the shifting paradigm

Although serious health concerns are associated with obesity, losing even 5% of body weight can produce clinically relevant effects. The initial goal of obesity management is usually a 5% to 10% weight reduction. Some people will sustain weight loss with changes in diet and exercise alone; however, these patients represent the minority, and a large percentage are unable to maintain weight loss over time. Patients and providers often wish to intensify obesity treatment, and therefore interest in new medications has been considerable. Until recently, only two antiobesity medications have received Food and Drug Administration approval for long-term use. In June and July of 2012, respectively, lorcaserin and combination phentermine/topiramate extended-release were approved for obesity therapy. The first section of this article reviews mechanisms, clinical trials, benefits and risks of available medications for treating obesity. Bariatric surgery is the next step for patients with a body mass index of ≥40 kg/m(2) or ≥35 kg/m(2) with comorbidities, based on National Institutes of Health Clinical Guidelines. These procedures and their risks and benefits are reviewed in the second section. The final section presents common clinical scenarios with guidance for choosing among evidence-based recommendations for developing optimal, individualized, long-term strategies for patients with obesity.

[A comparative study of the effectiveness of topiramate and flunarizine in independent series of chronic migraine patients without medication abuse]

INTRODUCTION

Topiramate and onabotulinumtoxin A have proven to be effective in chronic migraine with or without medication abuse according to recent criteria of the International Headache Society's Headache Classification.

AIMS

To show that flunarizine is as effective as topiramate in cases of chronic migraine without medication abuse.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We conducted a prospective, non-randomised, comparative study of two groups of patients paired by age and sex, with chronic migraine without abuse, who had been treated preventively for the first time with topiramate or flunarizine.

RESULTS

Forty patients treated with flunarizine were assigned a patient of their same sex and age who was being treated with topiramate. The mean rate of reduction in intense migraines in the topiramate group was 59% and in the flunarizine group, 58.5% (p = 0.9444); the responder rate at four months of treatment did not show any significant differences either, the figures being 75% for topiramate and 70% for flunarizine (p = 0.6236). The mean reduction of other headaches in the topiramate group was 57% and in the flunarizine group, 64% (p = 0.4261); the responder rate at four months of treatment was similar in the two groups: 76%. The percentage of dropouts from treatment was higher with topiramate (19.5%) than with flunarizine (10%) (p = 0.3493). No serious side effects occurred in either of the groups. In all, 78.9% of the patients who took topiramate said they were satisfied with the drug versus 75% of those in the flunarizine group (p = 0.7903).

CONCLUSIONS

Flunarizine proved to be as effective as topiramate in the treatment of chronic migraine without medication abuse.

A review of the metabolic effects of controlled-release Phentermine/Topiramate

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Very few drugs are approved for obesity treatment by regulatory agencies. Very recently phentermine/topiramate controlled-release [PHEN/TPM CR; (Qsymia®)] obtained Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval as an addition to a reduced-calorie diet and exercise for chronic weight management. Our aim was to review the available clinical evidence on weight loss, metabolic effects and adverse events associated with use of this product.

METHODS

Randomized controlled trials with phentermine/topiramate controlled-release were selected through a Medline search using the terms: phentermine and topiramate, phentermine and controlled release topiramate, new anti-obesity drugs and phentermine/topiramate, recent combinations of anti-obesity drugs and Qnexa®.

RESULTS

PHEN/TPM CR was associated with a weight loss of 8.1-10.9 % (mid and high dose, respectively), while patients in placebo groups lost 1.4-1.8 % of their initial weight. PHEN/TPM CR also resulted in a significant decrease of waist circumference. Weight loss with PHEN/TPM CR was associated with a decrease in blood pressure but with a slight increase in the heart rate. Furthermore, in all trials it exerted favorable effects on lipid profile, especially on triglycerides and high-density lipopoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. PHEN/TPM CR treatment also improved insulin sensitivity and glycemia. Moreover, it decreased significantly progression to type 2 diabetes. In all of the studies the severe adverse events were similar between the control groups and the groups of PHEN/TPM CR. The most frequent side-effects observed in the active treatment group were paresthesia, dysgeusia, dry mouth, constipation and insomnia.

WHAT IS NEW AND CONCLUSION

PHEN/TPM CR combined with lifestyle modification may be an effective and well-tolerated treatment for obesity and weight-related metabolic complications. Its long-term efficacy and safety have yet to be defined.

New medications for obesity management: changing the landscape of obesity treatment

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Despite being one of the most prevalent chronic diseases, obesity was not recognized as such until very recently. Although linked to ubiquitous diseases like diabetes, hypertension, coronary artery disease, obstructive sleep apnea, and many others, targeted treatments are few. Diet, exercise, and behavior modification are the pillars of weight loss. When they alone do not achieve the required weight reduction, medications may be used for patients with a BMI above 30 or above 27 if obesity-related comorbidities are present. The spectrum of pharmacologic agents aimed at obesity treatment will be reviewed.

RECENT FINDINGS

Two medications, phentermine and orlistat, have been the only agents approved many years ago and now still standing. Others have come and gone, removed from the market by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) because of harmful side-effects. However, in the last few years, new drugs have started to emerge. Since 2012, two new medications phentermine-topiramate extended-release combination and lorcaserin have been FDA approved, while at least one more, naltrexone SR/bupropion SR combination is expected to be re-evaluated by the FDA in 2014.

SUMMARY

Treating obesity is crucial as it will ultimately result in the prevention of many related chronic diseases and will decrease morbidity and mortality. Weight loss medications are a valuable part of the clinician's toolbox in the treatment of obesity and should be used when appropriate. Having a variety of medications would be a great asset to accommodate various patients' needs and pre-existing medical conditions.

Formulary management of 2 new agents: lorcaserin and phentermine/topiramate for weight loss

BACKGROUND

Obesity may lead to the development of multiple chronic disease states, including hypertension, dyslipidemia, and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Over a half billion adults worldwide are affected by obesity, and more than two-thirds of adults are either obese or overweight in the United States. Diet and exercise have been the mainstays of treatment in this population; however, once failed, noninvasive, long-term effective treatment modality is lacking, and medications may potentially fill the void. Lorcaserin and phentermine/topiramate were approved by the FDA in June 2012 and July 2012, respectively, as adjuncts to diet and exercise for chronic weight management of obese (body mass index [BMI] ≥ 30 kg/m2) or overweight (BMI ≥ 27 kg/m2) individuals with comorbidities.

OBJECTIVE

To review the phase 3 trials of lorcaserin and phentermine/topiramate and provide managed care considerations that may be taken into account as a result.

METHODS

A MEDLINE review was performed for articles published and available through September 17, 2012, using keywords "lorcaserin" or "phentermine/topiramate" with an emphasis on phase 3 trials. The literature search was limited to randomized controlled trials in humans published in the English language. Additional information on lorcaserin from its FDA review was obtained from the FDA website.

RESULTS

5 pivotal phase 3 trials were identified: 3 for lorcaserin and 2 for phentermine/topiramate. Both agents demonstrated a statistically significant higher proportion of individuals who lost ≥ 5% of body weight, as well as higher mean weight loss when compared with placebo. Safety concerns for lorcaserin include cardiac valvulopathy and increased risk of psychiatric, cognitive, and serotonergic adverse effects. Teratogenicity and increased heart rate are major safety concerns regarding phentermine/topiramate.

CONCLUSIONS

Health care decision makers have many factors to consider when developing strategies to fight obesity. Despite a great need for new therapies to treat obesity, medications used for weight loss have significant side-effect profiles and contraindications that may limit therapy. An appropriate utilization management strategy is needed.

Obesity drug therapy

Obesity is a chronic disease, and it requires chronic therapy. Hypertension, dyslipidemia, diabetes and cardiovascular diseases are leading causes of mortality in the modern world. All of them are strongly linked to obesity. While treating obesity, those conditions are also managed. Obese patients should always be treated through lifestyle interventions, though the results of such interventions are modest. Pharmacotherapy is a second step in the treatment of obesity, approved only when weight loss targets were not reached through lifestyle intervention. During the history of antiobesity drugs, many of them were withdrawn because of their side effects. Various guidelines recommend prescribing drug therapy for obesity through consideration of the potential benefits and limitations. Orlistat deactivates intestinal lipase and inhibits intestinal fat lipolysis. It is actually the only drug on the European market approved for the treatment of obesity. Orlistat therapy reduces weight to a modest extent, but it reduces the incidence of diabetes beyond the result achieved with lifestyle changes. Recently, some effective antiobesity drugs like sibutramine and rimonabant have been removed from the market due to their side effects. The new combination of topimarate and fentermine is approved in the US but not in Europe. The cost effectiveness of long-term pharmacotherapy of obesity is still an unresolved question.

Efficacy and safety of topiramate in migraine prophylaxis: an open controlled randomized study comparing Sincronil and topamax formulations

AIM

Topiramate is a small molecule widely used for the treatment of epilepsy, migraine, bipolar disorders and alcoholism, and its availability as a generic formulation could significantly reduce the National Health Service expenditure. A generic formulation, available in Italy under the trademark Sincronil, recently showed superimposable blood levels, after oral administration to healthy volunteers, with the reference formulation. In the present study we report the results of an open label, parallel group, randomized, controlled study performed to evaluate the efficacy, tolerability and impact on disability of two different formulations of topiramate (Sincronil and Topamax) in patients with migraine without aura.

METHODS

Sixty patients aged between 18 and 65 years, suffering from migraine without aura with an attack frequency of 3-15 attacks/month were enrolled and received, after a titration phase lasting 20 days, randomly either Sincronil or Topamax at the dose of 25 mg twice daily for 3 months.

RESULTS

Fifteen out of the 30 patients who were administered Sincronil reported an improvement in the clinical condition, with a decrease in the frequency of attacks at the 3rd month of treatment higher than 50% with respect to the run-in period, 9 reported their clinical condition as being substantially unchanged and 6 reported that they had suspended the treatment within the first 4 weeks of therapy due to side effects. Among the 24 patients who continued treatment up to the 3rd month, the frequency of attacks during the 3rd month of treatment was significantly decreased from 7 ± 3.6 to 3.7 ± 3.7 (P<0.0001), migraine severity was reduced from 2.5 ± 0.5 to 1.7 ± 0.7 (P<0.0005) and the MIDAS score was reduced from 14.3 ± 4.9 to 8.6 ± 5.5 (P<0.0001). Sixteen out of the 30 patients who were administered Topamax reported an improvement in the clinical condition with a reduction in the attack frequency at the 3rd month of treatment higher than 50% with respect to the run-in period, 10 reported a substantially unchanged clinical condition and 4 stopped the treatment within the first weeks due to side effects. Among the 26 patients who continued treatment up to the 3rd month, headache frequency during the 3rd month of treatment was significantly reduced, from 7.3 ± 2.6 to 3.5 ± 2.7 (P<0.0001), migraine severity decreased from 2.4 ± 0.6 to 1.6 ± 0.8 (P<0.0005) and the MIDAS score from 14.1 ± 4.2 to 6.8 ± 4.8 (P<0.0001).

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, in this study Topamax (reference product) and Sincronil (generic formulation) have proven therapeutically equivalent and both products were well tolerated.

Topiramate for neuropathic pain and fibromyalgia in adults

BACKGROUND

Topiramate is an antiepileptic drug with multiple possible mechanisms of action. Antiepileptic drugs are widely used to treat chronic neuropathic pain (pain due to nerve damage) and fibromyalgia, and many guidelines recommend them.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the analgesic efficacy and associated adverse events of topiramate for chronic neuropathic pain and fibromyalgia in adults (aged 18 years and above).

SEARCH METHODS

On 8 May 2013, we searched the Cochrane Neuromuscular Disease Group Specialized Register, CENTRAL, MEDLINE, and EMBASE. We reviewed the bibliographies of all randomised trials identified and review articles, and also searched two clinical trial databases, ClinicalTrials.gov and the WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform, to identify additional published or unpublished data.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) with double-blind assessment of participant outcomes following two weeks of treatment or longer (though the emphasis of the review was on studies of eight weeks or longer) that used a placebo or active comparator.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

We extracted efficacy and adverse event data, and two study authors examined issues of study quality independently. We performed analysis using two tiers of evidence. The first tier used data where studies reported the outcome of at least 50% pain reduction from baseline, lasted at least eight weeks, had a parallel group design, included 200 or more participants in the comparison, and reported an intention-to-treat analysis. First tier studies did not use last-observation-carried-forward (LOCF) or other imputation methods for dropouts. The second tier used data that failed to meet this standard; second tier results were therefore subject to potential bias.

MAIN RESULTS

We included four studies with 1684 participants. Three parallel-group placebo comparisons were in painful diabetic neuropathy (1643 participants), and one cross-over study with diphenhydramine as an active placebo (41 participants) was in lumbar radiculopathy. Doses of topiramate were titrated up to 200 mg/day or 400 mg/day. All studies had one or more sources of potential major bias, as they either used LOCF imputation or were of small size.No study provided first tier evidence for an efficacy outcome. There was no convincing evidence for efficacy of topiramate at 200 to 400 mg/day over placebo.Eighty-two per cent of participants taking topiramate 200 to 400 mg/day experienced at least one adverse event, as did 71% with placebo, and the number needed to treat for an additional harmful effect (NNTH) was 8.6 (95% confidence interval (CI) 4.9 to 35). There was no difference in serious adverse events recorded (6.6% versus 7.5%). Adverse event withdrawals with 400 mg daily were much more common with topiramate (27%) than with placebo (8%), with an NNTH of 5.4 (95% CI 4.3 to 7.1). Lack of efficacy withdrawal was less frequent with topiramate (12%) than placebo (18%). Weight loss was a common event in most studies. No deaths attributable to treatment were reported.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Topiramate is without evidence of efficacy in diabetic neuropathic pain, the only neuropathic condition in which it has been adequately tested. The data we have includes the likelihood of major bias due to LOCF imputation, where adverse event withdrawals are much higher with active treatment than placebo control. Despite the strong potential for bias, no difference in efficacy between topiramate and placebo was apparent.

New pharmacological approaches for obesity management

Obesity, which results from an imbalance between calorie intake and expenditure, now affects over 500 million individuals worldwide. Lifestyle and behavioural interventions aimed at reducing calorie intake and/or increasing energy expenditure have limited long-term effectiveness due to complex and persistent hormonal, metabolic and neurochemical adaptations that defend against weight loss and promote weight regain. Surgical treatments for obesity, although highly effective, are unavailable or unsuitable for the majority of individuals with excess adiposity. Accordingly, few effective treatment options are available to most individuals with obesity. In the past, the use of antiobesity drugs, seemingly the logical choice to fill this therapeutic gap, has been limited because of a lack of efficacy, poor long-term adherence rates and serious adverse effects. In 2012, the FDA approved two new medications-lorcaserin and phentermine-topiramate controlled release-and is currently reviewing the resubmission of naltrexone sustained release-bupropion sustained release. This Review presents the available data on the efficacy and safety of these three medications and discusses future perspectives and challenges related to pharmacological weight management.

Topiramate for the prophylaxis of episodic migraine in adults

BACKGROUND

Some antiepileptic drugs but not others are useful in clinical practice for the prophylaxis of migraine. This might be explained by the variety of actions of these drugs in the central nervous system. The present review is part of an update of a Cochrane review first published in 2004, and previously updated (conclusions not changed) in 2007.

OBJECTIVES

To describe and assess the evidence from controlled trials on the efficacy and tolerability of topiramate for preventing migraine attacks in adult patients with episodic migraine.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL; The Cochrane Library 2012, Issue 12), PubMed/MEDLINE (1966 to 15 January 2013), MEDLINE In-Process (current week, 15 January 2013), and EMBASE (1974 to 15 January 2013) and handsearched Headache and Cephalalgia through January 2013.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Studies were required to be prospective, controlled trials of topiramate taken regularly to prevent the occurrence of migraine attacks, to improve migraine-related quality of life, or both.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently selected studies and extracted data. For headache frequency data, we calculated mean differences (MDs) between topiramate and comparator (placebo, active control, or topiramate in a different dose) for individual studies and pooled these across studies. For dichotomous data on responders (patients with ≥ 50% reduction in headache frequency), we calculated odds ratios (ORs) and, in select cases, risk ratios (RRs); we also calculated numbers needed to treat (NNTs). We calculated MDs for selected quality of life instruments. Finally, we summarised data on adverse events from placebo-controlled trials and calculated risk differences (RDs) and numbers needed to harm (NNHs).

MAIN RESULTS

Twenty papers describing 17 unique trials met the inclusion criteria. Analysis of data from nine trials (1737 participants) showed that topiramate reduced headache frequency by about 1.2 attacks per 28 days as compared to placebo (MD -1.20; 95% confidence interval (CI) -1.59 to -0.80). Data from nine trials (1190 participants) show that topiramate approximately doubled the proportion of responders relative to placebo (RR 2.02; 95% CI 1.57 to 2.60; NNT 4; 95% CI 3 to 6). Separate analysis of different topiramate doses produced similar MDs versus placebo at 50 mg (-0.95; 95% CI -1.95 to 0.04; three studies; 520 participants), 100 mg (-1.15; 95% CI -1.58 to -0.71; six studies; 1620 participants), and 200 mg (-0.94; 95% CI -1.53 to -0.36; five studies; 804 participants). All three doses significantly increased the proportion of responders relative to placebo; ORs were as follows: for 50 mg, 2.35 (95% CI 1.60 to 3.44; three studies; 519 participants); for 100 mg, 3.49 (95% CI 2.23 to 5.45; five studies; 852 participants); and for 200 mg, 2.49 (95% CI 1.61 to 3.87; six studies; 1025 participants). All three doses also significantly improved three or more domains of quality of life as compared to placebo. Meta-analysis of the three studies that included more than one dose of topiramate suggests that 200 mg is no more effective than 100 mg. With regard to mean headache frequency and/or responder rate, seven trials using active comparators found (a) no significant difference between topiramate and amitriptyline (one study, 330 participants); (b) no significant difference between topiramate and flunarizine (one study, 83 participants); (c) no significant difference between topiramate and propranolol (two studies, 342 participants); (d) no significant difference between topiramate and relaxation (one study, 61 participants); but (e) a slight significant advantage of topiramate over valproate (two studies, 120 participants). Relaxation improved migraine-specific quality of life significantly more than topiramate. In trials of topiramate against placebo, seven adverse events (AEs) were reported by at least three studies. These were usually mild and of a non-serious nature. Except for taste disturbance and weight loss, there were no significant differences in the frequency of AEs in general, or of the seven specific AEs, between placebo and topiramate 50 mg. AEs in general and all of the specific AEs except nausea were significantly more common on topiramate 100 mg than on placebo, with NNHs varying from 3 to 25, and the RDs versus placebo were even higher for topiramate 200 mg, with NNHs varying from 2 to 17.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Meta-analysis demonstrates that topiramate in a 100 mg/day dosage is effective in reducing headache frequency and reasonably well-tolerated in adult patients with episodic migraine. This provides good evidence to support its use in routine clinical management. More studies designed specifically to compare the efficacy or safety of topiramate versus other interventions with proven efficacy in the prophylaxis of migraine are needed.

Valproate (valproic acid or sodium valproate or a combination of the two) for the prophylaxis of episodic migraine in adults

BACKGROUND

Some antiepileptic drugs but not others are useful in clinical practice for the prophylaxis of migraine. This might be explained by the variety of actions of these drugs in the central nervous system. The present review is part of an update of a Cochrane review first published in 2004, and previously updated (conclusions not changed) in 2007.

OBJECTIVES

To describe and assess the evidence from controlled trials on the efficacy and tolerability of valproate (valproic acid or sodium valproate or a combination of the two) for preventing migraine attacks in adult patients with episodic migraine.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL; The Cochrane Library 2012, Issue 12), PubMed/MEDLINE (1966 to 15 January 2013), MEDLINE In-Process (current week, 15 January 2013), and EMBASE (1974 to 15 January 2013) and handsearched Headache and Cephalalgia through January 2013.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Studies were required to be prospective, controlled trials of valproate taken regularly to prevent the occurrence of migraine attacks, to improve migraine-related quality of life, or both.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently selected studies and extracted data. For headache frequency data, we calculated mean differences (MDs) between valproate and comparator (placebo, active control, or valproate in a different dose) for individual studies and pooled these across studies. For dichotomous data on responders (patients with ≥ 50% reduction in headache frequency), we calculated odds ratios (ORs) and, in select cases, risk ratios (RRs); we also calculated numbers needed to treat (NNTs). We calculated MDs for Migraine Disability Assessment (MIDAS) scores. We also summarised data on adverse events from placebo-controlled trials and calculated risk differences (RDs) and numbers needed to harm (NNHs).

MAIN RESULTS

Ten papers describing 10 unique trials met the inclusion criteria. Analysis of data from two trials (63 participants) showed that sodium valproate reduced headache frequency by approximately four headaches per 28 days as compared to placebo (MD -4.31; 95% confidence interval (CI) -8.32 to -0.30). Data from four trials (542 participants) showed that divalproex sodium (a stable combination of sodium valproate and valproic acid in a 1:1 molar ratio) more than doubled the proportion of responders relative to placebo (RR 2.18; 95% CI 1.28 to 3.72; NNT 4; 95% CI 2 to 11). One study of sodium valproate (34 participants) versus placebo supported the latter findings (RR for responders 2.83; 95% CI 1.27 to 6.31; NNT 3; 95% CI 2 to 9). There was no significant difference in the proportion of responders between sodium valproate versus flunarizine (one trial, 41 participants) or between divalproex sodium versus propranolol (one trial, 32 participants). Pooled analysis of post-treatment mean headache frequencies in two trials (88 participants) demonstrates a slight but significant advantage for topiramate 50 mg over valproate 400 mg (MD -0.90; 95% CI -1.58 to -0.22). For placebo-controlled trials of sodium valproate and divalproex sodium, NNHs for clinically important adverse events ranged from 7 to 14.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Valproate is effective in reducing headache frequency and is reasonably well tolerated in adult patients with episodic migraine.

Selenium and topiramate attenuates blood oxidative toxicity in patients with epilepsy: a clinical pilot study

It is well known that oxidative stress plays an important role in the etiology of epilepsy. We investigated effects of selenium (Se) and topiramate (TPM) combination supplementation on antioxidant and oxidant values in control and patients with epilepsy and refractory epilepsy. For the aim, we used control (n = 19), epilepsy + TPM (n = 19), epilepsy + TPM + Se (n = 15) groups. We also used control (n = 15), refractory epilepsy (n = 15), and refractory epilepsy + Se (n = 8) groups. TPM (0.2 mg/daily) and Se, as sodium selenite (twice daily with 0.1 mg doses), were orally supplemented to the patients for 45 days. Erythrocyte lipid peroxidation levels were higher in refractory epilepsy groups than in control although its level and seizure numbers were decreased in TPM and TPM + Se supplemented groups of the patients. The erythrocyte reduced glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), plasma total antioxidant status (TAS), and vitamin E concentration in refractory epilepsy group were lower than in control. However, the erythrocyte and plasma TAS, erythrocyte GSH and GSH-Px, and plasma vitamins A and C values were increased either by Se or Se + TPM in epilepsy and refractory epilepsy groups. There were no effects of TPM and Se on plasma β-carotene values in the groups. In conclusion, TPM and selenium caused protective effects on the epilepsy and refractory epilepsy-induced oxidative injury by inhibiting free radical production and supporting antioxidant redox system.

A case of Drug Rash with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS) related to rufinamide

Drug Rash (or Reaction) with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS) is a potentially life-threatening hypersensitivity reaction to drugs characterized by rash, fever, lymphadenopathy, hematologic abnormalities, and involvement of internal organs. Initially coined in 1996, the term is used to refer to an idiosyncratic reaction to several drugs, the most common of which are carbamazepine, allopurinol, sulfasalazine, and phenobarbital. We report the first case of DRESS related to rufinamide in a ten year old boy with a history of a complex seizure disorder.

[Topiramate treatment for decreasing alcohol consumption in alcoholics: a comparative study of responders and nonresponders]

PURPOSE

The present study investigated the effectiveness of topiramate (TPM) treatment for decreasing alcohol consumption in alcoholics.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Alcoholics of outpatients, relapsed repeatedly, were included in this study. The study was conducted over 24 weeks. Subject characteristics (e.g., gender) and medical variables (e.g., age of onset) were recorded. Autistic features were determined using the Autism - Spectrum Quotient (>or=27 points). The average daily alcohol consumption was assessed at the start of the study and at 4, 12, and 24 weeks after its start. The five-step alcohol consumption scale of the Obsessive-Compulsive Drinking Scale (OCDS) was used. The extent of the change between the first assessment and subsequent assessment was considered the primary evaluation point. Responders were defined as subjects showing an improvement of at least two steps in the score. Patients not treated with TPM were retrospectively selected according to the same criteria on the basis of their medical records and were used as controls. The TPM group was further subdivided into responders and nonresponders.

RESULTS

Of the 31 subjects who consented to TPM therapy, 11 stopped or discontinued TPM, and they were considered nonresponders. The average TPM maintenance dosage (standard deviation) was 62.9 (38.1) mg. Alcohol consumption scores significantly decreased at each assessment point in the study. The percentage of responders in the TPM group (n = 31) was significantly higher than that in the control group (n = 41) at the 24-week assessment point (45.2% vs. 19.5%, p=0.0193). A significant difference was observed between responders (n = 14) and nonresponders (n = 17) only in well-educated and autistic subjects (50% vs. 5.9%, p = 0.0109).

CONCLUSION

TPM decreased the amount of alcohol consumption in alcoholics. In addition, a correlation between autistic features and TPM treatment response was suggested.

Ineffectiveness of topiramate and levetiracetam in infantile spasms non-responsive to steroids. Open labeled randomized prospective study

OBJECTIVE

To compare the effectiveness of 2 novel antiepileptic drugs, topiramate and levetiracetam, as a second line treatment for infantile spasm when oral steroids fail.

METHODS

Forty infants under 2 years with clinically- and EEG-proven infantile spasms that did not respond to prednisone (2mg/kg/day in 2 divided doses) were recruited and randomized into 2 groups. They were randomly assigned to either topiramate (group 1; 1mg/kg/day for 3 days then increased by 1mg/kg/day every third day up to 6mg/kg/day) or levetiracetam (group 2; 10mg/kg/day for 5 days and then increased by 10mg/kg/day every 5 days up to 60mg/kg/day). The study was conducted in the Pediatric Neurology Department at the National Neuroscience Institute of King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia between January 2008 and December 2010.

RESULTS

Of the 20 patients included in the final data analysis, 11 (55%) were administered topiramate and 9 (45%) levetiracetam. Eighteen patients did not respond to the first drug, and subsequently to the other drug when crossed-over. Two patients with infantile spasm responded to either one drug without crossover. Their EEGs improved with time.

CONCLUSION

The present study demonstrated the ineffectiveness of topiramate and levetiracetam suggesting current treatment modalities are grossly inadequate underscoring the urgent need for more research efforts to overcome current deficiencies. Two patients with cryptogenic infantile spasm responded to treatment suggesting the potential for treatment of such patients with these 2 drugs, and merits further multicenter investigation.

Phentermine and topiramate extended-release for the obesity: new kids on the block

Obesity is a major public health concern associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Its prevalence is rising worldwide mainly due to modern lifestyle habits. Several mechanisms like inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, increased sympathetic tone, high leptin and insulin concentrations as well as enhanced thrombogenesis are implicated to the emergence and progress of cardiovascular disease. Although, changes in the lifestyle remain the cornerstone of antiobesity treatment, alone do not always provide the desired weight loss. Often, the addition of pharmacotherapy or bariatric surgery is considered the treating option for patients meeting eligibility criteria. Although, bariatric surgery is limited to patients with a high body mass index due to the risks of the procedures, the effects of anti-obesity medication on cardiovascular outcome are still unclear. Several anti-obesity drugs have been abandoned because of serious adverse events. Qsymia is a combination of phentermine and topiramate used for obesity treatment. Administration of this drug reduces body weight and has favorable effects in various metabolic and anthropometric parameters. However, there are concerns regarding cardiovascular safety of this drug. In this review, we are going to present the history of current antiobesity medication focusing on the combination of phentermine and topiramate and recent patents.

Topiramate modulates habituation in migraine: evidences from nociceptive responses elicited by laser evoked potentials

BACKGROUND

Lack of habituation during repetitive stimulation is the most consistent interictal abnormality of cortical information processing observed in migraine. Preventive migraine treatments might act by stabilizing cortical excitability level and thus the habituation to external stimuli.

METHODS

We examined the effects of preventive treatment with topiramate on migraineur's habituation to nociceptive stimulation. Scalp potentials were evoked by Nd-YAP Laser stimulation of the hand dorsum and supraorbital region in 13 patients with migraine without aura (MO) and 15 healthy volunteers (HV). The exam was repeated in MO before and after treatment.

RESULTS

We observed a lack of habituation and lower initial amplitudes in MO compared to HV. These abnormalities reached statistical significance for N1 LEPs component, generated in the secondary somatosensory cortex (SII), but not for N2/P2 complex, generated in the insula and anterior cingulated cortex (ACC). Topiramate normalized the N1 habituation pattern in MO, with a significant correlation between clinical effects and normalization of neurophysiological responses.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results indicate a modulating action of topiramate on cortical processing of sensorial stimuli, mainly regarding the sensory-discriminative component of pain, elaborated by SII, without a significant effect on the affective dimension of pain, in which the ACC has an important role.

New developments in the pharmacologic treatment of obesity

Obesity, defined as a body mass index (BMI, kg/m(2) ) >30, is a significant public health problem. It's estimated that 50 percent of the U.S. population will be classified as obese by the year 2030. Due to associated health complications and rising health care costs related to obesity, new treatment options are being explored. For people who need additional treatment beyond lifestyle modification, new pharmacologic options have been developed that may assist in reducing BMI. Health care providers and patients should consider each person's individual health history and consider both the potential risks and benefits of these therapies.

Comparison of efficacy and safety of topiramate with gabapentin in migraine prophylaxis: randomized open label control trial

OBJECTIVE

To compare the efficacy and safety of topiramate with gabapentin in the prophylaxis of migraine patients.

METHODS

A 12-week randomised open label control trial was conducted at the Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Basic Medical Sciences Institute, Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre (JPMC), Karachi from January to March 2011 involving 80 outpatients who had a history of migraine. The sample was divided into two equal groups. Primary efficacy measure was changed into mean monthly migraine frequency. Secondary efficacy measure included reduction in severity and average duration of an attack. Chi square test and paired t-test were used to analyse the data through SPSS 15.

RESULT

Reduction in mean monthly migraine frequency (10.67 +/- 4.25 to 1.82 +/- 2.02) in the topiramate group was significantly greater compared with (11.97 +/- 4.452 to 2.73 +/- 2.59) that in the gabapentin group (p < 0.001). Reduction in severity from 6.60 +/- 2.122 to 1.03 +/- 0.92 in the topiramate group was also significantly greater compared with 6.93 +/- 1.90 to 1.18 +/- 1.01 in the gabapentin group (p < 0.001). Reduction in the average duration of attacks from 25.77 +/- 22.32 hours to 1.05 +/- 1.06 hours in the topiramate group was significantly greater compared with 22.20 +/- 20.72 to 1.08 +/- 1.40 hours in the gabapentin group (p < 0.001). Weight loss and numbness were common adverse effects in the topiramate group. Dizziness, weight gain and somnolence were reported in the gabapentin group.

CONCLUSION

Gabapentin appeared well tolerated in 30 (75%) patients compared to topiramate in 23(57.5%) patients. Both drugs were equally effective in migraine prophylaxis.