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Mbizvo GK, Chandrasekar B, Nevitt SJ, Dixon P, Hutton JL, Marson AG. Levetiracetam add-on for drug-resistant focal epilepsy. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2020; 6:CD001901. [PMID: 35658745 PMCID: PMC7387854 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd001901.pub3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Drug resistance is common in focal epilepsy. In this update, we summarised the current evidence regarding add-on levetiracetam in treating drug-resistant focal epilepsy. The original review was published in 2001 and last updated in 2012. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the effectiveness of levetiracetam when used as an add-on treatment for people with drug-resistant focal epilepsy. SEARCH METHODS We searched the Cochrane Register of Studies (CRS Web, which includes the Cochrane Epilepsy Group Specialized Register and CENTRAL), MEDLINE Ovid, ClinicalTrials.gov, and the WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP) to November 2018. We contacted the manufacturers of levetiracetam and researchers in the field to seek any ongoing or unpublished trials. SELECTION CRITERIA Randomised, placebo-controlled trials of add-on levetiracetam treatment in people with drug-resistant focal epilepsy. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors independently selected trials for inclusion, assessed trials for bias, extracted data, and evaluated the overall certainty of the evidence. Outcomes investigated included 50% or greater reduction in focal seizure frequency (response), treatment withdrawal, adverse effects (including a specific analysis of changes in behaviour), cognitive effects, and quality of life (QoL). Primary analysis was intention-to-treat. We performed meta-analysis for all outcomes using a Mantel-Haenszel approach and calculated risk ratios (RR), with 95% confidence intervals (CI) for all estimates apart from adverse effects (99% CIs). We assessed heterogeneity using a Chi² test and the I² statistic. MAIN RESULTS This update included 14 trials (2455 participants), predominantly possessing low risks of bias. Participants were adults in 12 trials (2159 participants) and children in the remaining two (296 participants). The doses of levetiracetam tested were 500 mg/day to 4000 mg/day in adults, and 60 mg/kg/day in children. Treatment ranged from 12 to 24 weeks. When individual doses were examined, levetiracetam at either 500 mg/day or 4000 mg/day did not perform better than placebo for the 50% or greater reduction in seizure frequency outcome (500 mg: RR 1.60, 95% CI 0.71 to 3.62; P = 0.26; 4000 mg: RR 1.64, 95% CI 0.59 to 4.57; P = 0.34). Levetiracetam was significantly better than placebo at all other individual doses (1000 mg to 3000 mg). RR was significantly in favour of levetiracetam compared to placebo when results were pooled across all doses (RR 2.37, 95% CI 2.02 to 2.78; 14 studies, 2455 participants; moderate-certainty evidence). Dose-response analysis demonstrated that the odds of achieving response (50% or greater reduction in seizure frequency) were increased by nearly 40% (odds ratio (OR) 1.39, 95% CI 1.23 to 1.58) for each 1000 mg increase in dose of levetiracetam. There were important levels of heterogeneity across multiple comparisons. Participants were not significantly more likely to experience treatment withdrawal with levetiracetam than with placebo (pooled RR 1.11, 95% CI 0.89 to 1.40; 13 studies, 2428 participants; high-certainty evidence). Somnolence was the most common adverse effect, affecting 13% of participants, and it was significantly associated with levetiracetam compared to placebo (pooled RR 1.62, 99% CI 1.19 to 2.20; 13 studies, 2423 participants; moderate-certainty evidence). Changes in behaviour were negligible in adults (1% affected; RR 1.79, 99% CI 0.59 to 5.41), but significant in children (23% affected; RR 1.90, 99% CI 1.16 to 3.11). Levetiracetam had a positive effect on some aspects of cognition and QoL in adults and worsened certain aspects of child behaviour. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS Overall, this review update finds that in both adults and children with drug-resistant focal epilepsy, levetiracetam added on to usual care is more effective than placebo at reducing seizure frequency, it is unlikely to be stopped by patients, and it has minimal adverse effects outside of potential worsening behaviour in children. These findings are unchanged from the previous review update in 2012. This review update contributes two key additional findings: 1. a 500 mg daily dose of levetiracetam is no more effective than placebo at reducing seizures; and 2. the odds of response (50% reduction in seizure frequency) are increased by nearly 40% for each 1000 mg increase in dose of levetiracetam. It seems reasonable to continue the use of levetiracetam in both adults and children with drug-resistant focal epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gashirai K Mbizvo
- The Walton Centre NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK
- Muir Maxwell Epilepsy Centre, Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | | | - Sarah J Nevitt
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Pete Dixon
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Pharmacology, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Jane L Hutton
- Department of Statistics, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Anthony G Marson
- The Walton Centre NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Pharmacology, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
- Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool, UK
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Fan Z, Feng X, Fan Z, Zhu X, Yin S. Immunotherapy by targeting of VGKC complex for seizure control and prevention of cognitive impairment in a mouse model of epilepsy. Mol Med Rep 2018; 18:169-178. [PMID: 29749462 PMCID: PMC6059666 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2018.9004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2017] [Accepted: 04/16/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Epilepsy is a type of refractory neurologic disorder mental disease, which is associated with cognitive impairments and memory dysfunction. However, the potential mechanisms of epilepsy are not well understood. Previous evidence has identified the voltage gated potassium channel complex (VGKC) as a target in various cohorts of patients with epilepsy. In the present study, the efficacy of an antibody against VGKC (anti-VGKC) for the treatment of epilepsy in mice was investigated. A mouse model of lithium-pilocarpine temporal lobe epilepsy was established and anti-VGKC treatment was administered for 30 days. Memory impairment, anxiety, visual attention, inhibitory control and neuronal loss were measured in the mouse model of lithium-pilocarpine temporal lobe epilepsy. The results revealed that epileptic mice treated with anti-VGKC were able to learn the task and presented attention impairment, even a tendency toward impulsivity and compulsivity. It was also exhibited that anti-VGKC treatment decreased neuronal loss in structures classically associated with attentional performance in hippocampus. Mice who received Anti-VGKC treatment had inhibited motor seizures and hippocampal damage as compared with control mice. In conclusion, these results indicated that anti-VGKC treatment may present benefits for improvements of the condition of motor attention impairment and cognitive competence, which suggests that VGKC may be a potential target for the treatment of epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiliang Fan
- The Third Department of Neurology, Xingtai People's Hospital of Hebei Province, Xingtai, Hebei 054001, P.R. China
| | - Xiaojuan Feng
- Department of Ultrasound, Xingtai People's Hospital of Hebei Province, Xingtai, Hebei 054001, P.R. China
| | - Zhigang Fan
- Department of Ultrasound, Xingtai People's Hospital of Hebei Province, Xingtai, Hebei 054001, P.R. China
| | - Xingyuan Zhu
- The Third Department of Neurology, Xingtai People's Hospital of Hebei Province, Xingtai, Hebei 054001, P.R. China
| | - Shaohua Yin
- The Third Department of Neurology, Xingtai People's Hospital of Hebei Province, Xingtai, Hebei 054001, P.R. China
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Abstract
There are more than 12 new antiepileptic drugs approved in the last 2 decades. Even with these newer agents, seizure remission is still unachievable in around 30% of patients with partial-onset seizures (POS). Brivaracetam (BRV) is chemically related to levetiracetam (LEV) and possesses a strong binding affinity for the synaptic vesicle protein 2A tenfold above that of LEV, and other possible modes of antiepileptic actions. BRV is now under Phase III development for POS, but data from one Phase III trial also suggested its potential efficacy for primary generalized seizures. The purpose of this review is to provide updated information on the mechanisms of action of the available antiepileptic drugs, with a focus on BRV to assess its pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, clinical efficacy, safety, and tolerability in patients with uncontrolled POS. To date, six Phase IIb and III clinical trials have been performed to investigate the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of BRV as an adjunctive treatment for patients with POS. Generally, BRV was well tolerated and did not show significant difference in safety profile, compared to placebo. The efficacy outcomes of BRV, although not consistent across trials, did indicate that BRV was a promising add-on therapy for patients with POS. In conclusion, the many favorable attributes of BRV, like its high oral efficacy, good tolerability, dosing regimen, and minimal drug interaction, make it a promising antiepileptic therapy for patients with uncontrolled partial-onset epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lan Gao
- Deakin Population Health SRC, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Burwood, Victoria, Australia
| | - Shuchuen Li
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
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Yau MLY, Fung ELW, Ng PC. Response of levetiracetam in neonatal seizures. World J Clin Pediatr 2015; 4:45-49. [PMID: 26261766 PMCID: PMC4526838 DOI: 10.5409/wjcp.v4.i3.45] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2015] [Revised: 05/25/2015] [Accepted: 06/16/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM: To review the clinical response to levetiracetam (LEV) in neonatal seizure management in intensive care unit.
METHODS: Medical records of neonates who received LEV from January 2009 to August 2014 were reviewed. Their demographic data, clinical characteristics, etiology, seizures, electroencephalograms, response to treatment and outcome were noted. Literature review of use of LEV in neonates were also performed via PubMed and EMBASE with keywords - “neonates”, “seizures”, “epilepsy” and “LEV” up to Sep 2014 and retrieved the publications. The response rate to LEV was compared.
RESULTS: Twelve neonates were identified during the study period. All patients received phenobarbitone loading prior to consideration of LEV. Seven (58%) and nine (75%) achieved seizure freedom 24 h and 72 h after LEV was added, both clinically and electrographically. No serious adverse effects were associated with LEV use. From the literature, there are total 144 neonates reported to have used LEV. The overall results suggested that LEV could control up to 90% of neonatal seizures.
CONCLUSION: LEV was found to be relatively safe and efficacious in treating neonatal seizures, but might not work well in the most severe hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy.
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Mbizvo GK, Dixon P, Hutton JL, Marson AG. Levetiracetam add-on for drug-resistant focal epilepsy: an updated Cochrane Review. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2012; 2012:CD001901. [PMID: 22972056 PMCID: PMC7061650 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd001901.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epilepsy is an important neurological condition and drug resistance in epilepsy is particularly common in individuals with focal seizures. In this review, we summarise the current evidence regarding a new antiepileptic drug, levetiracetam, when used as add-on treatment for controlling drug-resistant focal epilepsy. This is an update to a Cochrane Review that was originally published in 2001. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the effectiveness of levetiracetam, added on to usual care, in treating drug-resistant focal epilepsy. SEARCH METHODS We searched the Cochrane Epilepsy Group's Specialized Register (August 2012), the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL, The Cochrane Library Issue 7, 2012), and MEDLINE (1946 to August week 1, 2012). We also contacted the manufacturers of levetiracetam and researchers in the field to seek any ongoing or unpublished trials. SELECTION CRITERIA Randomised, placebo-controlled trials of add-on levetiracetam treatment in people with drug-resistant focal epilepsy. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors independently selected trials for inclusion, assessed trials for bias, extracted data, and evaluated the overall quality of evidence. Outcomes investigated included 50% or greater reduction in focal seizure frequency (response); less than 50% reduction in focal seizure frequency (non-response); treatment withdrawal; adverse effects (including a specific analysis of changes in behaviour); cognitive effects and quality of life (QoL). Risk ratios (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used as measures of effect (99% CIs for adverse effects). Primary analyses were Intention-to-Treat (ITT). Dose response and inter-trial heterogeneity were evaluated in regression models. MAIN RESULTS Eleven trials (1861 participants) were included. They predominantly possessed low risks of bias. Participants were adults in nine trials (1565 participants) and children in the remaining two trials (296 participants). The dose of levetiracetam tested was 1000 to 4000 mg/day in adults, and 60 mg/kg/day in children. Treatment ranged from 12 to 24 weeks. For the 50% or greater reduction in focal seizure frequency outcome, the RR was significantly in favour of levetiracetam at all doses. The naive estimates, ignoring dose, showed children (52% responded) as better responders than adults (39% responded) on levetiracetam. 25% of children and 16% of adults responded to placebo. The Number Needed to Treat for an additional beneficial outcome for children and adults was four (95% CI three to seven) and five (95% CI four to six), respectively. The significant levels of statistical heterogeneity between trials on adults precluded valid provision of an overall RR (ignoring dose). Results for the two trials that tested levetiracetam 2000 mg on adults were sufficiently similar to be combined to give an RR for 50% or greater reduction in focal seizure frequency of 4.91 (95% CI 2.75 to 8.77), with an RR of 0.68 (95% CI 0.60 to 0.77) for non-response. At this dose, 37% and 8% of adults were responders in the levetiracetam and placebo groups, respectively. Regression analysis demonstrated that much of the heterogeneity between adult trials was likely to be explained by different doses of levetiracetam tested and different years of trial publication. There was no evidence of statistical heterogeneity between trials on children. For these trials, the RR for 50% or greater reduction in focal seizure frequency was 1.91 (95% CI 1.38 to 2.63), with an RR of 0.68 (95% CI 0.56 to 0.81) for non-response. 27% of children responded. Participants were not significantly more likely to have levetiracetam withdrawn (RR 0.98; 95% CI 0.73 to 1.32 and RR 0.80; 95% CI 0.43 to 1.46 for adults and children, respectively). For adults, somnolence (RR 1.51; 99% CI 1.06 to 2.17) and infection (RR 1.76; 99% CI 1.03 to 3.02) were significantly associated with levetiracetam. Accidental injury was significantly associated with placebo (RR 0.60; 99% CI 0.39 to 0.92). No individual adverse effect was significantly associated with levetiracetam in children. Changes in behaviour were negligible in adults (1% affected; RR 1.79; 99% CI 0.59 to 5.41) but significant in children (23% affected; RR 1.90; 99% CI 1.16 to 3.11). Cognitive effect and QoL outcomes suggested that levetiracetam had a positive effect on cognition and some aspects of QoL in adults. In children, levetiracetam did not appear to alter cognitive function but there was evidence of worsening in certain aspects of child behaviour. The overall quality of evidence used was high. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS This update adds seven more trials to the original review, which contained four trials. At every dose analysed, levetiracetam significantly reduced focal seizure frequency relative to placebo. This indicates that levetiracetam can significantly reduce focal seizure frequency when it is used as an add-on treatment for both adults and children with drug-resistant focal epilepsy. As there was evidence of significant levels of statistical heterogeneity within this positive effect it is difficult to be precise about the relative magnitude of the effect. At a dose of 2000 mg, levetiracetam may be expected to be 3.9 times more effective than placebo; with 30% of adults being responders at this dose. At a dose of 60 mg/kg/day, levetiracetam may be expected to be 0.9 times more effective than placebo; with 25% of children being responders at this dose. When dose was ignored, children were better responders than adults by around 4% to 13%. The results grossly suggest that one child or adult may respond to levetiracetam for every four or five children or adults, respectively, that have received levetiracetam rather than placebo. The drug seems to be well tolerated in both adults and children although non-specific changes in behaviour may be experienced in as high as 20% of children. This aspect of the adverse-effect profile of levetiracetam was analysed crudely and requires further investigation and validation. It seems reasonable to continue the use of levetiracetam in both adults and children with drug-resistant focal epilepsy. The results cannot be used to confirm longer-term or monotherapy effects of levetiracetam or its effects on generalised seizures. The conclusions are largely unchanged from those in the original review. The most significant contribution of this update is the addition of paediatric data into the analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gashirai K Mbizvo
- Institute for Ageing and Chronic Disease, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK.
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6
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The adverse event profile of pregabalin across different disorders: a meta-analysis. Eur J Clin Pharmacol 2012; 68:903-12. [DOI: 10.1007/s00228-012-1213-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2011] [Accepted: 01/04/2012] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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Shigeto H. [Epilepsy practice for neurologists]. Rinsho Shinkeigaku 2011; 51:661-8. [PMID: 21946422 DOI: 10.5692/clinicalneurol.51.661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Epilepsy is a common disease with a high incidence of about one percent. Knowledge of seizure semiology and correct reading of EEG findings are important for diagnosis of epilepsy. Because the primary therapy for epilepsy is antiepileptic drugs (AEDs), including several ones that are newly permitted in Japan, we need to prescribe them based on an understanding of their actions and interaction mechanisms. However, we also need to consider early surgical treatment for temporal lobe epilepsy with hippocampal sclerosis. In the therapeutic decision for adult epilepsy patients many factors such as employment, marriage, child bearing, and co-existent disease need to be considered. The present review provides an overview of the basis of epilepsy practice for neurologists treating adults with epilepsy, including a discussion of new AEDs, epilepsy surgery, women with epilepsy, and epilepsy in the elderly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Shigeto
- Department of Neurology, Neurological Institute, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University
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8
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Schmitz B, Montouris G, Schäuble B, Caleo S. Assessing the unmet treatment need in partial-onset epilepsy: Looking beyond seizure control. Epilepsia 2010; 51:2231-40. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1528-1167.2010.02759.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Wu T, Chen CC, Chen TC, Tseng YF, Chiang CB, Hung CC, Liou HH. Clinical efficacy and cognitive and neuropsychological effects of levetiracetam in epilepsy: an open-label multicenter study. Epilepsy Behav 2009; 16:468-74. [PMID: 19783219 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2009.08.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2009] [Revised: 08/06/2009] [Accepted: 08/26/2009] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this prospective, multicenter, open-label study was to investigate the efficacy of levetiracetam (LEV) and determine its effects on cognitive and neuropsychological function. Sixty-nine patients were evaluated for effects of LEV on seizure control, cognitive (Mini-Mental State Examination [MMSE]) and neuropsychological (Symptom Checklist-90 Revised [SCL-90-R]) functions, and quality of life (Quality of Life in Epilepsy--10 [QOLIE-10]) assessments at 3 and 12 months of follow-up. Thirty-nine percent of patients achieved seizure freedom, and 68% had a > or =50% seizure frequency reduction after 1 year of LEV (1235.5+/-392.7 mg/day). There were also significant improvements in mean MMSE score and in the recall and language items of MMSE. There were modest improvements in interpersonal sensitivity and paranoid ideation scales of the SCL-90-R, and improvements in cognition and medication effect items of the QOLIE-10. The results demonstrate that LEV not only effectively reduces seizure frequency, but also possibly contributes to improvements in neuropsychological functions such as recall, language, interpersonal sensitivity, and paranoid ideation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tony Wu
- Department of Neurology, Chang-Gung Memorial University, Linkou, Taiwan
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Peltola J, Peltola M, Auvinen A, Raitanen J, Fallah M, Keränen T. Retention rates of new antiepileptic drugs in localization-related epilepsy: a single-center study. Acta Neurol Scand 2009; 119:55-60. [PMID: 18616622 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0404.2008.01062.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We evaluated long-term retention rates of newer antiepileptic drugs (AED) in adults with localization-related epilepsy retrospectively. METHODS We estimated retention rates by Kaplan-Meier method in all 222 patients (age > or = 16) with localization-related epilepsy exposed to new AED at the Tampere University Hospital. RESULTS There were 141 patients exposed to lamotrigine, 78 to levetiracetam, 97 to topiramate, 68 to gabapentin, and 69 to tiagabine. Three-year retention rate for lamotrigine was 73.5%, levetiracetam 65.4%, topiramate 64.2%, gabapentin 41.7%, and tiagabine 38.2%. The most common cause for withdrawal of these AED was lack of efficacy. CONCLUSIONS Our study suggests that there are clinically significant differences among gabapentin, lamotrigine, levetiracetam, tiagabine, and topiramate as treatment for focal epilepsy in everyday practice. Gabapentin and tiagabine seem to be less useful than the other three AED. Furthermore, our study supports the value of retention rate studies in assessing outcome of the drugs in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Peltola
- Division of Neurology and Rehabilitation, Tampere University Hospital, Finland.
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Rheims S, Cucherat M, Arzimanoglou A, Ryvlin P. Greater response to placebo in children than in adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis in drug-resistant partial epilepsy. PLoS Med 2008; 5:e166. [PMID: 18700812 PMCID: PMC2504483 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pmed.0050166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2007] [Accepted: 06/25/2008] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite guidelines establishing the need to perform comprehensive paediatric drug development programs, pivotal trials in children with epilepsy have been completed mostly in Phase IV as a postapproval replication of adult data. However, it has been shown that the treatment response in children can differ from that in adults. It has not been investigated whether differences in drug effect between adults and children might occur in the treatment of drug-resistant partial epilepsy, although such differences may have a substantial impact on the design and results of paediatric randomised controlled trials (RCTs). METHODS AND FINDINGS Three electronic databases were searched for RCTs investigating any antiepileptic drug (AED) in the add-on treatment of drug-resistant partial epilepsy in both children and adults. The treatment effect was compared between the two age groups using the ratio of the relative risk (RR) of the 50% responder rate between active AEDs treatment and placebo groups, as well as meta-regression. Differences in the response to placebo and to active treatment were searched using logistic regression. A comparable approach was used for analysing secondary endpoints, including seizure-free rate, total and adverse events-related withdrawal rates, and withdrawal rate for seizure aggravation. Five AEDs were evaluated in both adults and children with drug-resistant partial epilepsy in 32 RCTs. The treatment effect was significantly lower in children than in adults (RR ratio: 0.67 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.51-0.89]; p = 0.02 by meta-regression). This difference was related to an age-dependent variation in the response to placebo, with a higher rate in children than in adults (19% versus 9.9%, p < 0.001), whereas no significant difference was observed in the response to active treatment (37.2% versus 30.4%, p = 0.364). The relative risk of the total withdrawal rate was also significantly lower in children than in adults (RR ratio: 0.65 [95% CI 0.43-0.98], p = 0.004 by metaregression), due to higher withdrawal rate for seizure aggravation in children (5.6%) than in adults (0.7%) receiving placebo (p < 0.001). Finally, there was no significant difference in the seizure-free rate between adult and paediatric studies. CONCLUSIONS Children with drug-resistant partial epilepsy receiving placebo in double-blind RCTs demonstrated significantly greater 50% responder rate than adults, probably reflecting increased placebo and regression to the mean effects. Paediatric clinical trial designs should account for these age-dependent variations of the response to placebo to reduce the risk of an underestimated sample size that could result in falsely negative trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylvain Rheims
- Department of Functional Neurology and Epileptology, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
- CTRS INSERM-IDEE, Institute for Children and Adolescents with Epilepsy, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Michel Cucherat
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, EA 643, Lyon-1 University, Laennec Faculty of Medicine, Lyon, France
| | - Alexis Arzimanoglou
- CTRS INSERM-IDEE, Institute for Children and Adolescents with Epilepsy, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
- Department of Epileptology, Sleep and Pediatric Neurophysiology, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Philippe Ryvlin
- Department of Functional Neurology and Epileptology, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
- CTRS INSERM-IDEE, Institute for Children and Adolescents with Epilepsy, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
- INSERM U821, Lyon, France
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12
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Baulac M. Introduction to zonisamide. Epilepsy Res 2006; 68 Suppl 2:S3-9. [PMID: 16413170 DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2005.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2005] [Revised: 11/01/2005] [Accepted: 11/02/2005] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Zonisamide (Zonegran), a novel antiepileptic drug (AED) approved recently in Europe as adjunctive therapy for refractory partial seizures in adults, has been used extensively in Japan and the United States. A substantial body of clinical experience has accumulated over a 14-year period, allowing the properties and pharmacologic/clinical profiles of zonisamide to be clearly defined. Zonisamide is structurally distinct from other AEDs and has multiple and complementary mechanisms of action, which likely contribute to its efficacy across a broad range of epilepsy types. Zonisamide has a long T1/2 enabling once-daily dosing, linear pharmacokinetics and minimal interaction with other drugs; plasma levels of commonly administered AEDs and oral contraceptives are unaffected by concomitant zonisamide. Effective control of partial seizures (up to 51% decrease in seizure frequency) is attained at doses of >or=300 mg/day, and optimal titration and maintenance dosing schedules have been established. The adverse event profile is well defined; in common with most AEDs, most adverse events are central nervous system-related (e.g. somnolence, dizziness, tiredness). Adverse events may be minimised with appropriate patient management. Zonisamide therefore has many characteristics considered desirable in an AED and represents a valuable addition to the therapeutic options for treating epilepsy in Europe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michel Baulac
- Department of Neurology, University of Paris 6, Bat. Paul Castaigne, Hopital de la Pitie-Salpetriere, 47 Bld de l'Hopital, 75013 Paris, France.
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Lawlor KM, Devlin AM. Levetiracetam in the treatment of infantile spasms. Eur J Paediatr Neurol 2005; 9:19-22. [PMID: 15701562 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpn.2004.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2004] [Revised: 11/08/2004] [Accepted: 11/15/2004] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
An 11-month-old infant with a 5-month history of seizures and a 3-month history of infantile spasms is described. EEG showed epileptic encephalopathy. The infantile spasms were resistant to treatment with clobazam. Following the introduction of levetiracetam, there was clinical cessation of seizures with resolution of seizure activity on the EEG. This is the second report in the literature of effective treatment of infantile spasms with levetiracetam.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine M Lawlor
- Department of Paediatric Neurology, Newcastle General Hospital, Westgate Road, Newcastle upon Tyne NE4 6BE, UK
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Raffo E. Traitements au long cours des épilepsies de l’enfant. Rev Neurol (Paris) 2004. [DOI: 10.1016/s0035-3787(04)71208-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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Prise en charge médicale et médico-sociale des EPPR. Conduite spécifique du traitement antiépileptique au long cours chez l’adulte. Rev Neurol (Paris) 2004. [DOI: 10.1016/s0035-3787(04)71213-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Chaisewikul R, Privitera MD, Hutton JL, Marson AG. Levetiracetam add-on for drug-resistant localization related (partial) epilepsy. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2001:CD001901. [PMID: 11279737 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd001901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The majority of patients with epilepsy have a good prognosis and their seizures are well controlled by a single antiepileptic drug. However, up to 30% develop refractory seizures, particularly those with partial seizures. In this review, we summarise the current evidence regarding a new antiepileptic drug, levetiracetam, when used as an add-on treatment for drug-resistant localization related (partial) epilepsy. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the effects of levetiracetam on seizures, side effects, quality of life and cognition, when used as an add-on treatment for patients with a drug-resistant localization related (partial) epilepsy. SEARCH STRATEGY We searched the Cochrane Epilepsy Group trials register, the Cochrane Controlled Trials Register (Cochrane Library Issue 2, 2000). In addition, we contacted UCB SA (makers of levetiracetam) and experts in the field to seek any ongoing studies or unpublished studies. SELECTION CRITERIA Randomized placebo controlled add-on trials of levetiracetam in patients with a drug-resistant localization related (partial) epilepsy. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two reviewers independently selected trials for inclusion and extracted relevant data. The following outcomes were assessed: (a) 50% or greater reduction in total seizure frequency; (b) treatment withdrawal (any reason); (c) side effects; (d) cognitive effects; (e) quality of life. Primary analyses were intention to treat. Sensitivity best and worst case analyses were also undertaken. Summary odds ratios (ORs) were estimated for each outcome. Dose response was evaluated in regression models. MAIN RESULTS Four trials (1023 patients) were included. All four trials had data for treatment withdrawal and side effect outcomes. Three trials (904 patients) had data for 50% or greater reduction in seizure frequency. Three trials (595 patients) had data for quality of life and cognitive outcomes. The overall Odds Ratio (OR) (95% Confidence Interval (CI)) for 50% or greater reduction in total seizure frequency outcome was 3.81 (2.78,5.22). Dose regression analysis shows clear evidence that levetiracetam reduces seizure frequency with an increase in efficacy with increasing dose of levetiracetam. Approximately 15% of patients taking 1000 mg and 20-30% of patients taking 3000 mg levetiracetam per day have a 50% or greater reduction in seizure frequency. Patients were not significantly more likely to have levetiracetam withdrawn, OR (95% CI) 1.25 (0.87,1.80). The following side effects were significantly associated with levetiracetam: dizziness 2.36 (1.21, 4.61) and infection 1.82 (1.05, 3.14) whereas accidental injury was significantly associated with placebo 0.55 (0.32, 0.93). Quality of life and cognitive effect outcomes suggest that levetiracetam has a positive effect on cognition and some aspects of quality of life. REVIEWER'S CONCLUSIONS Levetiracetam reduces seizure frequency when used as an add-on treatment for patients with a drug-resistant localization related (partial) epilepsy, and seems well tolerated. Minimum effective and maximum tolerated doses have not been identified. The trials reviewed were of 16-24 weeks duration and results cannot be used to confirm longer term effects. Our results cannot be extrapolated to monotherapy or to patients with other seizure types or epilepsy syndromes. Great care should also be taken with any attempt to apply these results to children.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Chaisewikul
- University Department of Neurological Science, 2nd floor - Clinical Science Centre for Research & Education, Lower Lane, Liverpool, Merseyside, UK, L9 7LJ. sircs98 @hotmail.com
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