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Ali S, Stanley J, Davis S, Keenan N, Scheffer IE, Sadleir LG. Indications and prescribing patterns of antiseizure medications in children in New Zealand. Dev Med Child Neurol 2023. [PMID: 36775823 DOI: 10.1111/dmcn.15546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 02/14/2023]
Abstract
AIM To determine indications and prescribing patterns for antiseizure medications (ASMs) in children by age, sex, and socioeconomic status. METHOD This retrospective study searched the New Zealand database of ASM prescriptions dispensed to individuals aged 18 years or under during 2015 in three regions of New Zealand (48% paediatric population). Medical records were reviewed by a paediatric neurologist for indication. ASMs were grouped into old or new (1993 onwards). RESULTS In total, 2594 children (0 to 18 years, mean age 11 years 2 months, median 12 years; 51% male) were dispensed 3557 ASMs for seizures (76%), pain (6%), headache (5%), mental health (3%), and movement disorders (2%). After 10 years of age, lamotrigine was more likely and valproate less likely to be prescribed in females than males. No sex difference was observed for valproate prescriptions for non-seizure indications. Topiramate prescriptions increased in adolescent females. Prescriptions for non-seizure indications increased from 7% in children aged 6 years or under to 31% in 16- to 18-year-olds. The proportion of children receiving a new ASM compared to an old ASM was greater in children from higher than lower socioeconomic areas. INTERPRETATION Our results highlight a need for focused ASM teratogenicity messaging to clinicians prescribing ASMs for non-seizure indications. In addition, to improve equity of epilepsy care, it is critical for health policies to consider socioeconomic factors that impact on ASM prescribing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shayma Ali
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of Otago, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - James Stanley
- Department of Public Health, University of Otago, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Suzanne Davis
- Department of Neurology, Auckland City Hospital, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Ngaire Keenan
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of Otago, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Ingrid E Scheffer
- Departments of Medicine and Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Austin Health and Royal Children's Hospital, Florey and Murdoch Children's Research Institutes, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Lynette G Sadleir
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of Otago, Wellington, New Zealand
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Antanasković A, Janković SM. Guidance for interactions between antiseizure medications. Expert Opin Drug Metab Toxicol 2023; 19:239-242. [PMID: 37291986 DOI: 10.1080/17425255.2023.2223960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Ana Antanasković
- University of Kragujevac, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Kragujevac, Serbia
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Silva R, Bicker J, Almeida A, Carona A, Silva A, Sales F, Santana I, Falcão A, Fortuna A. Clinical Application of Pharmacokinetics to Appraise Adherence to Levetiracetam in Portuguese Epileptic Patients. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10092127. [PMID: 36140228 PMCID: PMC9495958 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10092127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2022] [Revised: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Adherence to antiseizure drug treatment determines its effectiveness and safety, and consequently affects patients’ quality of life. Herein, we assessed adherence to levetiracetam in Portuguese patients with refractory epilepsy (n = 115), with resort to a pharmacokinetic drug monitoring approach. The pharmacokinetic parameters of levetiracetam in each patient were determined in steady-state while admitted to the hospital. Then, adherence was assessed by comparing the plasma concentration of the drug observed on the first day of hospitalization with the predicted plasma concentration, considering previously determined pharmacokinetic parameters. The rate of adherence was assessed according to gender, age, diagnosis, and antiseizure drug regimen. Among 115 enrolled patients, 49 (42.6%) were identified as non-adherent, 30 (26.1%) classified as under-consumers, and 19 (16.5%) as over-consumers. A relationship between adherence, daily dose and plasma concentrations was herein reported for the first time. Adherent patients received higher daily doses of levetiracetam [2500 (2000–3000) mg] than non-adherent over-consumers [1500 (1000–2000) mg] and non-adherent under-consumers [2000 (1500–3000) mg]. Higher average steady-state plasma concentrations of levetiracetam were found in non-adherent under-consumers [27.28 (15.33–36.36) mg/L], followed by adherent patients [22.05 (16.62–29.81) mg/L] and non-adherent over-consumers [17.50 (10.69–24.37) mg/L]. This study demonstrates that adherence (or lack thereof) influences the plasma concentrations of levetiracetam in steady-state and its pharmacological effects. Moreover, it emphasizes the importance of educating patients to encourage adherence to therapy. Otherwise, the risk of developing toxic and subtherapeutic concentrations is undeniable, compromising the therapeutic effect and safety of treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Silva
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- CIBIT/ICNAS—Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Joana Bicker
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- CIBIT/ICNAS—Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Anabela Almeida
- CIBIT/ICNAS—Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- CIVG—Vasco da Gama Research Center/EUVG—Vasco da Gama University School, 3020-210 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Andreia Carona
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- CIBIT/ICNAS—Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ana Silva
- Refractory Epilepsy Reference Centre, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, EPE, 3004-561 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Francisco Sales
- Refractory Epilepsy Reference Centre, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, EPE, 3004-561 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Isabel Santana
- Refractory Epilepsy Reference Centre, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, EPE, 3004-561 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Amílcar Falcão
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- CIBIT/ICNAS—Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ana Fortuna
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- CIBIT/ICNAS—Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +351-(239)-488-400; Fax: +351-(239)-488-503
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Kang KW, Lee H, Shin JY, Moon HJ, Lee SY. Trends in Prescribing of Antiseizure Medications in South Korea: Real-World Evidence for Treated Patients With Epilepsy. J Clin Neurol 2022; 18:179-193. [PMID: 35274836 PMCID: PMC8926764 DOI: 10.3988/jcn.2022.18.2.179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2021] [Revised: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Purpose We investigated the trends in the prescribing of antiseizure medication (ASM) over a 9-year period, and provide real-world data regarding ASM prescriptions of patients with epilepsy in South Korea. Methods This study used data in the Korean National Health Information Database for the period from 2009 to 2017. We included 18 oral ASMs, which were classified into older and newer ASMs based on them first becoming available on the market before or after 1991, respectively. The annual trends in ASM prescriptions were plotted over the 9-year study period, and changes in these trends were evaluated as average annual percentage changes (AAPCs) using Poisson regression. Age- and sex-stratified analyses were also conducted. Results Overall, the proportion of prescriptions involving polytherapy with three or more ASMs increased from 10.08% in 2009 to 10.99% in 2017 (AAPC=0.9%, p<0.001) over the 9-year study period. Among monotherapies, although valproate (VPA) was the most frequently prescribed ASM, the prescription rate of levetiracetam (LEV) steadily increased regardless of age and sex over the study period. The monotherapy prescription trends differed depending on age and sex. In the five most frequently used ASM combination regimens, the prescription rates of VPA/LEV, LEV/oxcarbazepine, and LEV/lamotrigine regimens showed increasing tendencies. In contrast, prescription rates for all combined regimens of older ASMs declined over time in all age groups. Conclusions This is the first epidemiological study of the changes in prescription trends for ASM in South Korea based on nationwide data from 2009 to 2017. We found progressive increases in the use of newer ASMs for both monotherapy and duotherapy, and for polytherapy with three or more ASMs over the 9-year study period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyung Wook Kang
- Department of Neurology, Chonnam National University Hospital, Gwangju, Korea
| | - Hyesung Lee
- School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, Korea
- Department of Biohealth Regulatory Science, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, Korea
| | - Ju-Young Shin
- School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, Korea
- Department of Biohealth Regulatory Science, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, Korea
- Samsung Advanced Institute for Health Sciences & Technology (SAIHST), Sungkyunkwan University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hye-Jin Moon
- Department of Neurology, Soonchunhyang University Bucheon Hospital, Bucheon, Korea
| | - Seo-Young Lee
- Department of Neurology, Kangwon National University School of Medicine, Chuncheon, Korea
- Medical Bigdata Convergence, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, Korea
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Ali S, Stanley J, Davis S, Keenan N, Scheffer IE, Sadleir LG. Epidemiology of Treated Epilepsy in New Zealand Children: A Focus on Ethnicity. Neurology 2021; 97:e1933-e1941. [PMID: 34504020 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000012784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES To determine the period prevalence and incidence of treated epilepsy in a New Zealand pediatric cohort with a focus on ethnicity and socioeconomic status. METHODS This was a retrospective cohort study. The New Zealand Pharmaceutical Collection database was searched for individuals ≤18 years of age dispensed an antiseizure medication (ASM) in 2015 from areas capturing 48% of the New Zealand pediatric population. Medical records of identified cases were reviewed to ascertain the indication for the ASM prescription. Population data were derived from the New Zealand 2013 Census. RESULTS A total of 3,557 ASMs were prescribed during 2015 in 2,594 children, of whom 1,717 (66%) children had epilepsy. An indication for prescription was ascertained for 3,332/3,557 (94%) ASMs. The period prevalence of treated epilepsy was 3.4 per 1,000 children. Children in the most deprived areas had 1.9 times the rate of treated epilepsy (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.6-2.2) as those from the least deprived areas. Prevalence was similar for most ethnic groups (European/other: 3.7, 95% CI 3.4-3.9; Pacific Peoples: 3.6, 95% CI 3.2-4.1; Māori: 3.4, 95% CI 3.1-3.8) apart from Asians, who had a lower prevalence of 2.3 per 1,000 (95% CI 2.0-2.6). However, when adjusted for socioeconomic deprivation, the prevalence of epilepsy was highest in European and similar in Māori, Pacific, and Asian children. DISCUSSION This is the largest pediatric epidemiology epilepsy study where diagnosis of epilepsy was confirmed by case review. This is the first study to provide epidemiologic information for pediatric epilepsy in Māori and Pacific children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shayma Ali
- From the Departments of Pediatrics and Child Health (S.A., S.D., N.K., L.G.S.) and Public Health (J.S.), University of Otago, Wellington, New Zealand; and the Departments of Medicine and Pediatrics (I.S.), Austin Health and Royal Children's Hospital, Florey and Murdoch Children's Research Institutes, University of Melbourne, Australia
| | - James Stanley
- From the Departments of Pediatrics and Child Health (S.A., S.D., N.K., L.G.S.) and Public Health (J.S.), University of Otago, Wellington, New Zealand; and the Departments of Medicine and Pediatrics (I.S.), Austin Health and Royal Children's Hospital, Florey and Murdoch Children's Research Institutes, University of Melbourne, Australia
| | - Suzanne Davis
- From the Departments of Pediatrics and Child Health (S.A., S.D., N.K., L.G.S.) and Public Health (J.S.), University of Otago, Wellington, New Zealand; and the Departments of Medicine and Pediatrics (I.S.), Austin Health and Royal Children's Hospital, Florey and Murdoch Children's Research Institutes, University of Melbourne, Australia
| | - Ngaire Keenan
- From the Departments of Pediatrics and Child Health (S.A., S.D., N.K., L.G.S.) and Public Health (J.S.), University of Otago, Wellington, New Zealand; and the Departments of Medicine and Pediatrics (I.S.), Austin Health and Royal Children's Hospital, Florey and Murdoch Children's Research Institutes, University of Melbourne, Australia
| | - Ingrid Eileen Scheffer
- From the Departments of Pediatrics and Child Health (S.A., S.D., N.K., L.G.S.) and Public Health (J.S.), University of Otago, Wellington, New Zealand; and the Departments of Medicine and Pediatrics (I.S.), Austin Health and Royal Children's Hospital, Florey and Murdoch Children's Research Institutes, University of Melbourne, Australia.
| | - Lynette Grant Sadleir
- From the Departments of Pediatrics and Child Health (S.A., S.D., N.K., L.G.S.) and Public Health (J.S.), University of Otago, Wellington, New Zealand; and the Departments of Medicine and Pediatrics (I.S.), Austin Health and Royal Children's Hospital, Florey and Murdoch Children's Research Institutes, University of Melbourne, Australia
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Strzelczyk A, Grau J, Bast T, Bertsche A, Bettendorf U, Hahn A, Hartmann H, Hertzberg C, Hornemann F, Immisch I, Jacobs J, Klotz KA, Kluger G, Knake S, Knuf M, Kurlemann G, Marquard K, Mayer T, Meyer S, Muhle H, Müller-Schlüter K, von Podewils F, Rosenow F, Ruf S, Sauter M, Schäfer H, Schlump JU, Schubert-Bast S, Syrbe S, Thiels C, Trollmann R, Wiemer-Kruel A, Wilken B, Zukunft B, Zöllner JP. Prescription patterns of antiseizure drugs in tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC)-associated epilepsy: a multicenter cohort study from Germany and review of the literature. Expert Rev Clin Pharmacol 2021; 14:749-760. [PMID: 33792454 DOI: 10.1080/17512433.2021.1911643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Seizures are a primary and early disease manifestation of Tuberous Sclerosis Complex (TSC). We aimed to describe the age-stratified patterns of antiseizure drug (ASD) treatments among children, adolescents, and adults with TSC in Germany. Additionally, we reviewed real-world and clinical study evidence regarding ASD utilization in patients with TSC. METHODS We evaluated the pattern of routine ASD use and everolimus prescriptions based on a 2019 multicenter survey of 268 individuals with TSC-associated epilepsy. We contextualized the results with a structured review of real-world and clinical study evidence. RESULTS TSC-associated epilepsy treatment comprises a wide variety of ASDs. In this German sample, the majority of patients were treated with polytherapy, and lamotrigine (34.7%), valproate (32.8%), oxcarbazepine (28.7%), vigabatrin (19.0%), and levetiracetam (17.9%) were identified as the most-commonly used ASDs. In addition, everolimus was used by 32.5% of patients. In adherence to current TSC guidelines, the disease-modifying ASD vigabatrin was widely used in children (58% below the age of 5 years), whereas treatment in adults did not necessarily reflect guideline preference for (partial) GABAergic ASDs. CONCLUSIONS The selection of ASDs for patients with TSC-associated epilepsy follows well-evaluated recommendations, including the guidelines regarding vigabatrin use in children. Several characteristics, such as the comparatively high frequency of valproate use and polytherapy, reflect the severity of TSC-associated epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Strzelczyk
- Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.,LOEWE Center for Personalized Translational Epilepsy Research (CePTER), Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.,Epilepsy Center Hessen and Department of Neurology, Philipps-University Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Janina Grau
- Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.,LOEWE Center for Personalized Translational Epilepsy Research (CePTER), Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Thomas Bast
- Epilepsy Center Kork, Clinic for Children and Adolescents, Kehl-Kork, Germany
| | - Astrid Bertsche
- Department of Neuropediatrics, University Hospital for Children and Adolescents, Rostock, Germany
| | | | - Andreas Hahn
- Department of Neuropediatrics, Justus-Liebig-University Gießen, Gießen, Germany
| | - Hans Hartmann
- Clinic for Pediatric Kidney, Liver and Metabolic Diseases, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | | | - Frauke Hornemann
- Department of Neuropediatrics, Leipzig University Hospital for Children and Adolescents, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Ilka Immisch
- Epilepsy Center Hessen and Department of Neurology, Philipps-University Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Julia Jacobs
- Department of Neuropediatrics and Muscle Disorders, Center for Pediatrics, Medical Center, University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg i.Br., Germany.,Department of Pediatrics and Clinical Neurosciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Kerstin A Klotz
- Department of Neuropediatrics and Muscle Disorders, Center for Pediatrics, Medical Center, University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg i.Br., Germany.,Berta-Ottenstein-Programme, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg i.Br., Germany
| | - Gerhard Kluger
- Clinic for Neuropediatrics and Neurorehabilitation, Epilepsy Center for Children and Adolescents, Schön Klinikum Vogtareuth, Germany.,Research Institute, Rehabilitation, Transition and Palliation, PMU Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Susanne Knake
- Epilepsy Center Hessen and Department of Neurology, Philipps-University Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Markus Knuf
- Department of Pediatrics, Helios Dr. Horst Schmidt Kliniken Wiesbaden, Wiesbaden, Germany.,Department of Pediatrics, University Medicine Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | | | - Klaus Marquard
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Psychosomatics and Pain Management, Klinikum of Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Thomas Mayer
- Epilepsy Center Kleinwachau, Dresden-Radeberg, Germany
| | - Sascha Meyer
- Department of Neuropediatrics, University Children´s Hospital of Saarland, Homburg, Germany
| | - Hiltrud Muhle
- Department of Neuropediatrics, Christian-Albrechts-University Kiel & University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Kiel, Germany
| | - Karen Müller-Schlüter
- Epilepsy Center for Children, University Hospital Neuruppin, Brandenburg Medical School, Neuruppin, Germany
| | - Felix von Podewils
- Departmental of Neurology, Epilepsy Center, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Felix Rosenow
- Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.,LOEWE Center for Personalized Translational Epilepsy Research (CePTER), Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Susanne Ruf
- Department of Neuropediatrics, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Matthias Sauter
- Klinikum Kempten, Klinikverbund Allgäu, Kempten/Allgäu, Germany
| | - Hannah Schäfer
- Division of Nephrology, Medizinische Klinik Und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der LMU München - Innenstadt, München, Germany.,Department of Nephrology, Klinikum Rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Jan-Ulrich Schlump
- Department of Neuropediatrics, University of Witten/Herdecke, Herdecke, Germany
| | - Susanne Schubert-Bast
- Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.,LOEWE Center for Personalized Translational Epilepsy Research (CePTER), Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.,Department of Neuropediatrics, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Steffen Syrbe
- Division of Pediatric Epileptology, Center for Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Charlotte Thiels
- Department of Neuropediatrics and Social Pediatrics, St. Josef-Hospital, University Hospital of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Regina Trollmann
- Department of Neuropediatrics, Friedrich-Alexander University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | | | - Bernd Wilken
- Department of Neuropediatrics, Klinikum Kassel, Kassel, Germany
| | - Bianca Zukunft
- Department of Nephrology and Internal Intensive Care, Charité - University Medicine Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Johann Philipp Zöllner
- Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.,LOEWE Center for Personalized Translational Epilepsy Research (CePTER), Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
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Yu L, Zhu W, Zhu X, Lu Y, Yu Z, Dai H. Anti-seizure Medication Prescription in Adult Outpatients With Epilepsy in China, 2013-2018. Front Neurol 2021; 12:649589. [PMID: 34108928 PMCID: PMC8180859 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2021.649589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2021] [Accepted: 04/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to assess the national trends in anti-seizure medication (ASM) prescription in Chinese adult outpatients with epilepsy over a 6-year period from 2013 to 2018. Prescriptions for adult outpatients with epilepsy from hospitals in six major cities were extracted from the database of the Hospital Prescription Analysis Cooperative Project. Trends in the annual prescriptions and expenditure of ASM were analyzed. Prescription patterns (monotherapy or combination therapy) were also assessed. A total of 225,767 prescriptions from 60 hospitals were eligible and extracted for analysis. The number of ASM prescriptions increased from 28,360 in 2013 to 44,110 in 2018, and the corresponding cost increased from 9,452,990 Chinese Yuan (CNY) in 2013 to 14,627,865 CNY in 2018. The share of newer ASM use increased continuously, accounting for 56.75% of prescriptions and 85.03% of expenditure in 2018. The most frequently prescribed ASMs were sodium valproate and levetiracetam. The proportion of sodium valproate use decreased, while the proportion of levetiracetam use increased dramatically in terms of both ASM prescriptions and expenditure. Monotherapy was more frequent than combination therapy. The three most common combination therapies were sodium valproate/lamotrigine, levetiracetam/oxcarbazepine, and sodium valproate/levetiracetam. In summary, ASM use increased rapidly in terms of the number of ASM prescriptions and cost during the 6-year period, which raises concern regarding the rational use and pharma-economic profiles of ASMs. In place of valproate, levetiracetam became the most frequently used ASM. The development of ASM prescription is in line with therapy guidelines and reflects the current state of research in China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingyan Yu
- Department of Pharmacy, Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Wenjie Zhu
- Department of Pharmacy, Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiuping Zhu
- Department of Pharmacy, Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yan Lu
- Department of Pharmacy, Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhenwei Yu
- Department of Pharmacy, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Haibin Dai
- Department of Pharmacy, Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
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Yu L, Feng J, Yu Z, Dai H. Trends of anti-seizure medication use in pediatric patients in six cities in China from 2013 to 2018. Epilepsy Res 2020; 167:106448. [PMID: 32916644 DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2020.106448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2020] [Revised: 07/17/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to describe the prevalence of the use and prescribing patterns of anti-seizure medications (ASMs) over a six-year period, and to provide real-world evidence on medicine utilization of pediatric patients with epilepsy in China. METHODS ASM prescriptions for pediatric patients written from 2013 to 2018 were extracted from the database of the Hospital Prescription Analysis Cooperative Project. Trends of ASM use were analyzed by total prescriptions, cost, age, sex, ASM class and specific ASM. Prescribing patterns of ASMs were also analyzed. RESULTS A total of 44,675 ASM prescriptions were extracted for analysis in this study. Throughout the study period, a slight increase of ASM prescriptions was observed from 6170 in 2013 to 8211 in 2018. Children aged between 6 and 18 years, accounted for 78 % of total prescriptions every year. ASM use in boys was about 1.5 times higher than that in girls. Newer ASMs were prescribed more than older ASMs during this period. Sodium valproate was the most frequently prescribed ASM in 2013, and its use decreased in girls in 2016. Levetiracetam increased from 19.10 % in 2013 to 28.09 % in 2018 and became the most common ASM at the end of this study. Meanwhile, the use of oxcarbazepine increased from 19.31 % to 22.04 %, whereas the use of lamotrigine had declined from 18.43 % to 10.72 %. Monotherapy (66.24 %) was more frequently used than combined therapy, which included dual combination (25.80 %) and triple or more combinations (7.96 %). CONCLUSION There is an increased ASM prescription trend in childhood usage. Levetiracetam has replaced sodium valproate as the most frequently prescribed ASM in pediatric patients. Newer ASMs with fewer side effects and drug interactions are increasingly utilized, which is consistent with evolving recommendations by the medical community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingyan Yu
- Department of Pharmacy, Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jianhua Feng
- Department of Pediatrics, Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zhenwei Yu
- Department of Pharmacy, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital of Zhejiang University, School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Haibin Dai
- Department of Pharmacy, Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
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Wie viele Patienten mit Epilepsie gibt es in Deutschland, und wer behandelt sie? ZEITSCHRIFT FÜR EPILEPTOLOGIE 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s10309-020-00334-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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Khalyfa A, Sanz-Rubio D. Genetics and Extracellular Vesicles of Pediatrics Sleep Disordered Breathing and Epilepsy. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20215483. [PMID: 31689970 PMCID: PMC6862182 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20215483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2019] [Revised: 10/14/2019] [Accepted: 10/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Sleep remains one of the least understood phenomena in biology, and sleep disturbances are one of the most common behavioral problems in childhood. The etiology of sleep disorders is complex and involves both genetic and environmental factors. Epilepsy is the most popular childhood neurological condition and is characterized by an enduring predisposition to generate epileptic seizures, and the neurobiological, cognitive, psychological, and social consequences of this condition. Sleep and epilepsy are interrelated, and the importance of sleep in epilepsy is less known. The state of sleep also influences whether a seizure will occur at a given time, and this differs considerably for various epilepsy syndromes. The development of epilepsy has been associated with single or multiple gene variants. The genetics of epilepsy is complex and disorders exhibit significant genetic heterogeneity and variability in the expressivity of seizures. Phenobarbital (PhB) is the most widely used antiepileptic drug. With its principal mechanism of action to prolong the opening time of the γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-A receptor-associated chloride channel, it enhances chloride anion influx into neurons, with subsequent hyperpolarization, thereby reducing excitability. Enzymes that metabolize pharmaceuticals including PhB are well known for having genetic polymorphisms that contribute to adverse drug–drug interactions. PhB metabolism is highly dependent upon the cytochrome P450 (CYP450) and genetic polymorphisms can lead to variability in active drug levels. The highly polymorphic CYP2C19 isozymes are responsible for metabolizing a large portion of routinely prescribed drugs and variants contribute significantly to adverse drug reactions and therapeutic failures. A limited number of CYP2C19 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) are involved in drug metabolism. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are circular membrane fragments released from the endosomal compartment as exosomes are shed from the surfaces of the membranes of most cell types. Increasing evidence indicated that EVs play a pivotal role in cell-to-cell communication. Theses EVs may play an important role between sleep, epilepsy, and treatments. The discovery of exosomes provides potential strategies for the diagnosis and treatment of many diseases including neurocognitive deficit. The aim of this study is to better understand and provide further knowledge about the metabolism and interactions between phenobarbital and CYP2C19 polymorphisms in children with epilepsy, interplay between sleep, and EVs. Understanding this interplay between epilepsy and sleep is helpful in the optimal treatment of all patients with epileptic seizures. The use of genetics and extracellular vesicles as precision medicine for the diagnosis and treatment of children with sleep disorder will improve the prognosis and the quality of life in patients with epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdelnaby Khalyfa
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Sleep Medicine, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA.
- Department of Child Health and the Child Health Research Institute, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, MO 65201, USA.
| | - David Sanz-Rubio
- Department of Child Health and the Child Health Research Institute, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, MO 65201, USA.
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Willems LM, Hamer HM, Knake S, Rosenow F, Reese JP, Strzelczyk A. General Trends in Prices and Prescription Patterns of Anticonvulsants in Germany between 2000 and 2017: Analysis of National and Cohort-Based Data. APPLIED HEALTH ECONOMICS AND HEALTH POLICY 2019; 17:707-722. [PMID: 31161366 DOI: 10.1007/s40258-019-00487-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Our aim was to explore trends in price evolution and prescription volumes of anticonvulsants (AEDs, antiepileptic drugs) in Germany between 2000 and 2017. METHOD This study used data from annual reports on mean prescription frequency and prices of defined daily doses (DDD) of AEDs in Germany to analyze nationwide trends. Interrupted time series (ITS) analysis was employed to test for significant effects of several statutory healthcare reforms in Germany on AED price evolution. These data were compared to cohort-based prescription patterns of four German cohort studies from 2003, 2008, 2013, and 2016 that included a total of 1368 patients with focal and generalized epilepsies. RESULTS Analysis of national prescription data between 2000 and 2017 showed that mean prices per DDD of third-generation AEDs decreased by 65% and mean prices of second-generation AEDs decreased by 36%, whereas mean prices of first-generation AEDs increased by 133%. Simultaneously, mean prescription frequency of third- generation AEDs increased by 2494%, while there was a substantial decrease in the use of first- (- 55%) and second- (- 16%) generation AEDs. ITS analysis revealed that in particular the introduction of mandatory rebates on drugs in 2003 affected prices of frequently used newer AEDs. These findings are consistent with data from cohort studies of epilepsy patients showing a general decrease of prices for frequently used AEDs in monotherapy by 62% and in combination therapies by 68%. The analysis suggests that overall expenses for AEDs remained stable despite an increase in the prescription of "newer" and "non-enzyme-inducing" AEDs for epilepsy patients. CONCLUSION Between 2000 and 2017, a distinct decline in AED prices can be observed that seems predominately caused by a governmentally obtained price decline of third- and second-generation drugs. These observations seem to be the result of a German statutory cost containment policy applied across all health-care sectors. The increasing use of third-generation AEDs to the disadvantage of "old" and "enzyme-inducing" AEDs reflects the preferences of physicians and patients with epilepsy and follows national treatment guidelines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurent M Willems
- Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main and Department of Neurology, Center of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Schleusenweg 2-16 (Haus 95), 60528, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- LOEWE Center for Personalized Translational Epilepsy Research (CePTER), Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Hajo M Hamer
- Epilepsy Center Erlangen and Department of Neurology, University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Susanne Knake
- LOEWE Center for Personalized Translational Epilepsy Research (CePTER), Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Epilepsy Center Hessen and Department of Neurology, Philipps-University Marburg, Marburg (Lahn), Germany
| | - Felix Rosenow
- Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main and Department of Neurology, Center of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Schleusenweg 2-16 (Haus 95), 60528, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- LOEWE Center for Personalized Translational Epilepsy Research (CePTER), Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Epilepsy Center Hessen and Department of Neurology, Philipps-University Marburg, Marburg (Lahn), Germany
| | - Jens-Peter Reese
- LOEWE Center for Personalized Translational Epilepsy Research (CePTER), Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Coordinating Center for Clinical Trials, Philipps-University Marburg, Marburg (Lahn), Germany
| | - Adam Strzelczyk
- Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main and Department of Neurology, Center of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Schleusenweg 2-16 (Haus 95), 60528, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
- LOEWE Center for Personalized Translational Epilepsy Research (CePTER), Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
- Epilepsy Center Hessen and Department of Neurology, Philipps-University Marburg, Marburg (Lahn), Germany.
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Hypersensitivity Reactions to Antiepileptic Drugs in Children: Epidemiologic, Pathogenetic, Clinical, and Diagnostic Aspects. THE JOURNAL OF ALLERGY AND CLINICAL IMMUNOLOGY-IN PRACTICE 2018; 6:1879-1891.e1. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jaip.2018.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2018] [Revised: 06/17/2018] [Accepted: 07/04/2018] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
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13
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Weijenberg A, Bos JH, Schuiling-Veninga CC, Brouwer OF, Callenbach PM. Antiepileptic drug prescription in Dutch children from 2006–2014 using pharmacy-dispensing data. Epilepsy Res 2018; 146:21-27. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2018.07.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2018] [Revised: 07/06/2018] [Accepted: 07/22/2018] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
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Virta LJ, Kälviäinen R, Villikka K, Keränen T. Declining trend in valproate use in Finland among females of childbearing age in 2012-2016 - a nationwide registry-based outpatient study. Eur J Neurol 2018; 25:869-874. [PMID: 29509301 DOI: 10.1111/ene.13610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2017] [Accepted: 02/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Documented teratogenic effects of valproate (VPA) prompted restrictions of its use in females of childbearing age in 2014. We investigated possible annual changes in the outpatient use of VPA in Finland during 2008-2016 with a special focus on women. METHODS We identified all outpatients with VPA purchases between 2008 and 2016 categorizing users due to epilepsy, bipolar disorder or miscellaneous indications. Temporal trends in the annual prevalence rates of VPA use were estimated using Poisson regression analyses. RESULTS Between 2012 and 2016, the prevalence of VPA use among women aged 15-44 years decreased by 19%, from 50/10 000 to 40/10 000 (prevalence rate ratio, 0.81; 95% confidence intervals, 0.77-0.91; P < 0.001). The use of VPA due to epilepsy decreased significantly in females aged 15-24 and 25-34 years and that due to bipolar disorders decreased significantly in females aged 25-34 and 35-44 years. The use of VPA in the miscellaneous indication group decreased by 32% after 2014 in females aged 15-44 years and, most strikingly, by 56% among those aged 15-25 years. In women with epilepsy, the use of VPA increased among those over the age of 44 years. CONCLUSIONS The rates of female VPA users with childbearing potential have decreased in all three major indication groups in Finland during recent years, especially after the European Medicines Agency restrictions were published in 2014. However, it still remains open to question as to whether the practice of VPA use follows current guidelines. A special concern is the relatively high prevalence of off-label use of VPA in fertile-aged females.
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Affiliation(s)
- L J Virta
- Research Department, Social Insurance Institution of Finland, Turku
| | - R Kälviäinen
- Epilepsy Center, Neurocenter, School of Medicine, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Kuopio University Hospital and Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio
| | | | - T Keränen
- Department of Neurology, Kanta-Häme Central Hospital, Hämeenlinna
- Science Service Center, Kuopio University Hospital, Kuopio, Finland
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Liu X, Carney PR, Bussing R, Segal R, Cottler LB, Winterstein AG. Trends in Antiepileptic Drug Use in Children and Adolescents With Epilepsy. Pediatr Neurol 2017; 74:32-40. [PMID: 28676250 DOI: 10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2017.05.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2016] [Revised: 04/10/2017] [Accepted: 05/22/2017] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We describe the trends in antiepileptic drug (AED) use in children and adolescents with epilepsy in the United States. METHODS We undertook a cross-sectional study based on Medicaid Analytic eXtract data set from 26 US states. Children and adolescents aged three to 18 years with at least one year continuous Medicaid fee-for-service coverage after the second outpatient or the first inpatient diagnosis of epilepsy in each calendar year during 1999 to 2009 were included in the study; therefore, 11 cohorts were established. A patient was defined as being exposed to a specific AED if he or she had at least one-day supply of the AED during the 1-year follow-up period. The annual prevalence of AEDs was reported, stratified by gender and age. The trends in AED use were evaluated through linear regression. RESULTS The sample sizes of the 11 cohorts ranged between 17,304 and 22,672. The annual prevalence of valproic acid use declined from 42.4% in 1999 to 26.5% in 2009, and the prevalence of carbamazepine use declined from 37.1% to 10.2%. Meanwhile, the prevalence of levetiracetam use increased from 5.1% to about 32.0% in 2009, and the prevalence of oxcarbazepine use increased from 1.3% to 19.1%. Since 2008, levetiracetam (29.6%) has replaced valproic acid (27.8%) as the most commonly used AED in children and adolescents with epilepsy. The prevalence of diazepam use increased from 11.6% to 28.1%. SIGNIFICANCE Compared with first- and second-generation antiepileptic drugs, third-generation AEDs have fewer adverse side effects, resulting in increased patient treatment adherence. Equally important is the economic impact of these newer AEDs. This first-of-its-kind study underscores the need for large database studies that objectively assess the cost-effectiveness of third-generation AEDs versus first- and second-generation AEDs in the treatment of childhood epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyue Liu
- Pharmaceutical Outcomes and Policy, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida.
| | - Paul R Carney
- Neurology, School of Medicine, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Regina Bussing
- Psychiatry, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Richard Segal
- Pharmaceutical Outcomes and Policy, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Linda B Cottler
- Epidemiology, Colleges of Medicine and Public Health & Health Professions, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Almut G Winterstein
- Pharmaceutical Outcomes and Policy, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida; Epidemiology, Colleges of Medicine and Public Health & Health Professions, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
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Egunsola O, Choonara I, Sammons HM. Anti-epileptic drug utilisation in paediatrics: a systematic review. BMJ Paediatr Open 2017; 1:e000088. [PMID: 29637124 PMCID: PMC5862211 DOI: 10.1136/bmjpo-2017-000088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2017] [Revised: 07/10/2017] [Accepted: 07/10/2017] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aims to determine global anti-epileptic drug (AED) utilisation prevalence and describe utilisation trends in different countries. METHODS Databases Embase (1980-May 2017), Medline (1946-May 2017) and PubMed were searched for original research on AED utilisation. All paediatric national or regional database studies and surveys were included. RESULTS Twenty-one studies were identified. Five were excluded from the analysis as the data were collected before 2005, leaving 16 studies. Monotherapy regimen varied between 58% and 94% in different countries. In several of the studies, sodium valproate was the most frequently prescribed AED. However, there is a trend towards increasing utilisation of new-generation AEDs, particularly levetiracetam, in some countries. CONCLUSION Monotherapy was used in 58%-94%of patients. There is increasing utilisation of the new-generation AEDs, in particular lamotrigine, levetiracetam and topiramate. Old-generation AEDs are still used in the majority of patients. There is a need for up-to-date studies to determine the prevalence of AEDs in children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oluwaseun Egunsola
- Division of Medical Sciences and Graduate Entry Medicine, University of Nottingham, Derbyshire Children's Hospital, Derby, UK
| | - Imti Choonara
- Division of Medical Sciences and Graduate Entry Medicine, University of Nottingham, Derbyshire Children's Hospital, Derby, UK
| | - Helen M Sammons
- Division of Medical Sciences and Graduate Entry Medicine, University of Nottingham, Derbyshire Children's Hospital, Derby, UK
- Department of Paediatrics, North Devon District Hospital, Raleigh Park, Barnstaple, Devon, UK
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17
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Anticonvulsant prescription patterns in patients covered by the Colombian Health System. NEUROLOGÍA (ENGLISH EDITION) 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nrleng.2014.09.009] [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] Open
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18
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Antiepileptic drug use in Italian children over a decade. Eur J Clin Pharmacol 2016; 73:241-248. [DOI: 10.1007/s00228-016-2168-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2016] [Accepted: 11/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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Strzelczyk A, Hamer HM. [Impact of early benefit assessment on patients with epilepsy in Germany: Current healthcare provision and therapeutic needs]. DER NERVENARZT 2016; 87:386-93. [PMID: 26927680 DOI: 10.1007/s00115-016-0087-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Epilepsy is one of the most common chronic neurological diseases and represents a significant burden for patients, their families and society. In more than 75 % of patients anticonvulsant therapy consists of valproate, carbamazepine, lamotrigine or levetiracetam. There is a need for polytherapy in drug-refractory patients and they suffer from negative effects on quality of life and employment that is associated with high indirect costs. To allow a comprehensive treatment in this patient group, access to new anticonvulsants with novel modes of action is needed; however, all applications for new antiepileptic drugs failed to prove added benefits during the Pharmaceutical Market Restructuring Act (AMNOG) in Germany. One of the main reasons is the mandatory definition of a standard comparative therapy. It remains unclear whether there will be studies in the future which will fulfill the requirements of the current version of AMNOG. Observational studies after approval and marketing of new antiepileptic drugs could be better alternatives to prove added benefits for individual patients in the current German healthcare system.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Strzelczyk
- Epilepsiezentrum Frankfurt Rhein-Main, Klinik für Neurologie, J.W. Goethe Universität, Schleusenweg 2-16, Haus 95, 60528, Frankfurt am Main, Deutschland. .,Epilepsiezentrum Hessen, Klinik für Neurologie, Philipps-Universität Marburg, Marburg, Deutschland.
| | - H M Hamer
- Epilepsiezentrum Erlangen, Klinik für Neurologie, Friedrich-Alexander Universität, Erlangen, Deutschland
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Riechmann J, Strzelczyk A, Reese JP, Boor R, Stephani U, Langner C, Neubauer BA, Oberman B, Philippi H, Rochel M, Seeger J, Seipelt P, Oertel WH, Dodel R, Rosenow F, Hamer HM. Costs of epilepsy and cost-driving factors in children, adolescents, and their caregivers in Germany. Epilepsia 2015; 56:1388-97. [PMID: 26235849 DOI: 10.1111/epi.13089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/22/2015] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To provide first data on the cost of epilepsy and cost-driving factors in children, adolescents, and their caregivers in Germany. METHODS A population-based, cross-sectional sample of consecutive children and adolescents with epilepsy was evaluated in the states of Hessen and Schleswig-Holstein (total of 8.796 million inhabitants) in all health care sectors in 2011. Data on socioeconomic status, course of epilepsy, and direct and indirect costs were recorded using patient questionnaires. RESULTS We collected data from 489 children and adolescents (mean age ± SD 10.4 ± 4.2 years, range 0.5-17.8 years; 264 [54.0%] male) who were treated by neuropediatricians (n = 253; 51.7%), at centers for social pediatrics ("Sozialpaediatrische Zentren," n = 110, 22.5%) and epilepsy centers (n = 126; 25.8%). Total direct costs summed up to €1,619 ± €4,375 per participant and 3-month period. Direct medical costs were due mainly to hospitalization (47.8%, €774 ± €3,595 per 3 months), anticonvulsants (13.2%, €213 ± €363), and ancillary treatment (9.1%, €147 ± €344). The total indirect costs amounted to €1,231 ± €2,830 in mothers and to €83 ± €593 in fathers; 17.4% (n = 85) of mothers and 0.6% (n = 3) of fathers reduced their working hours or quit work because of their child's epilepsy. Independent cost-driving factors were younger age, symptomatic cause, and polytherapy with anticonvulsants. Older age, active epilepsy, symptomatic cause, and polytherapy were independent predictors of higher antiepileptic drug (AED) costs, whereas younger age, longer epilepsy duration, symptomatic cause, disability, and parental depression were independent predictors for higher indirect costs. SIGNIFICANCE Treatment of children and adolescents with epilepsy is associated with high direct costs due to frequent inpatient admissions and high indirect costs due to productivity losses in mothers. Direct costs are age-dependent and higher in patients with symptomatic epilepsy and polytherapy. Indirect costs are higher in the presence of a child's disability and parental depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janna Riechmann
- Department of Neurology and Epilepsy Center Hessen, Philipps-University, Marburg, Germany.,Department of Pediatrics and Neonatology, Justus-Liebig-University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Adam Strzelczyk
- Department of Neurology and Epilepsy Center Hessen, Philipps-University, Marburg, Germany.,Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main, Department of Neurology, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Jens P Reese
- Department of Neurology and Epilepsy Center Hessen, Philipps-University, Marburg, Germany.,Institute of Medical Sociology and Social Medicine, Philipps-University Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Rainer Boor
- Department of Pediatric Neurology and Northern German Epilepsy Centre for Children and Adolescents, Kiel University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Ulrich Stephani
- Department of Pediatric Neurology and Northern German Epilepsy Centre for Children and Adolescents, Kiel University, Kiel, Germany
| | | | - Bernd A Neubauer
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Justus-Liebig-University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Bettina Oberman
- Center for Social Pediatrics Frankfurt Höchst, Frankfurt/Main, Germany
| | - Heike Philippi
- Center for Social Pediatrics and Epilepsy Outpatient Clinic Frankfurt Mitte, Frankfurt/Main, Germany
| | | | - Jürgen Seeger
- Center for Social Pediatrics and Epilepsy Outpatient Clinic Frankfurt Mitte, Frankfurt/Main, Germany.,Department of Pediatrics, Deutsche Klinik für Diagnostik, Wiesbaden, Germany
| | - Peter Seipelt
- Department of Neurology and Epilepsy Center Hessen, Philipps-University, Marburg, Germany.,Department of Pediatrics, Philipps-University Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Wolfgang H Oertel
- Department of Neurology and Epilepsy Center Hessen, Philipps-University, Marburg, Germany
| | - Richard Dodel
- Department of Neurology and Epilepsy Center Hessen, Philipps-University, Marburg, Germany
| | - Felix Rosenow
- Department of Neurology and Epilepsy Center Hessen, Philipps-University, Marburg, Germany.,Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main, Department of Neurology, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Hajo M Hamer
- Epilepsy Center Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander University, Erlangen, Germany
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Morales-Plaza CD, Machado-Alba JE. Anticonvulsant prescription patterns in patients covered by the Colombian Health System. Neurologia 2014; 32:6-14. [PMID: 25449961 DOI: 10.1016/j.nrl.2014.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2014] [Revised: 04/25/2014] [Accepted: 09/06/2014] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Epilepsy is a group of long-term neurological disorders characterised by seizures that may respond to pharmacological treatment. OBJECTIVE Determine the prescribing patterns of anticonvulsants for patients covered by the healthcare system in Colombia. METHODS Cross-sectional study using a database containing 6.5 million people. From among residents in 88 Colombian cities, we selected patients of both sexes and all ages who were treated continuously with anticonvulsants between June and August 2012. We designed a drug consumption database and performed multivariate analysis for combination treatment and co-medication using SPSS 20.0. RESULTS A total of 13,793 patients with mean age of 48.9±22.0 years were studied; 52.9% of the participants were women. Of the patient total, 74.4% were treated in monotherapy and 25.6% received two or more anticonvulsants. Globally, 72.9% of the patients were initially treated with classic anticonvulsants and 27.1% with new drugs. The most frequently used drugs were valproic acid (33.3%), carbamazepine (30.2%), clonazepam (15.7%), pregabalin (10.3%), phenytoin (10.0%) and levetiracetam (7.9%). Most agents were used in higher doses than recommended. The most common combinations were valproic acid+clonazepam (10.9%), valproic acid+carbamazepine (10.0%), carbamazepine+clonazepam (5.6%), valproic acid+phenytoin (4.4%). The most frequently prescribed co-medications were antihypertensives (61.0%), lipid-lowering drugs (45.8%), antidepressants (36.7%), antipsychotics (20.1%), anxiolytics (7.9%), and lithium (1.8%). DISCUSSION Doctors predominantly prescribe drugs with a high therapeutic value and favour anticonvulsant monotherapy. Most agents were used in higher doses than recommended. This underlines the need to design educational strategies addressing these prescribing habits, and to undertake research on the effectiveness of treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- C D Morales-Plaza
- Grupo de Investigación en Farmacoepidemiología y Farmacovigilancia. Departamento de Ciencias Básicas, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Tecnológica de Pereira, Pereira, Colombia
| | - J E Machado-Alba
- Grupo de Investigación en Farmacoepidemiología y Farmacovigilancia, Universidad Tecnológica de Pereira, Audifarma S.A., Pereira, Colombia.
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Shcherbakova N, Rascati K, Brown C, Lawson K, Novak S, Richards KM, Yoder L. Factors associated with seizure recurrence in epilepsy patients treated with antiepileptic monotherapy: A retrospective observational cohort study using US administrative insurance claims. CNS Drugs 2014; 28:1047-58. [PMID: 25086640 DOI: 10.1007/s40263-014-0191-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Few studies examine predictors of seizures in medically treated patients with epilepsy receiving antiepileptic monotherapy using a large patient population. OBJECTIVE Our objective was to identify clinical, medication, and demographic factors associated with seizure recurrence in medically treated patients with epilepsy receiving one of four antiepileptic monotherapy regimens: lamotrigine, levetiracetam, oxcarbazepine, or topiramate. STUDY DESIGN A retrospective cohort study was conducted using Innovus Invision™ Data Mart paid medical and prescription US commercial insurance claims data from January 2007 to September 2010. METHODS Patients aged 18-64 years with a primary or secondary diagnosis of epilepsy and one or more prescription claim for an antiepileptic drug (AED) pre-index were included. The primary outcome was incidence of a seizure or seizure-related event, defined as an emergency room visit, ambulance service use, or inpatient hospitalization medical claim with a primary or secondary diagnosis of epilepsy during the 1-year follow-up. The factors included AED adherence, somatic comorbidity (measured via Charlson Comorbidity Index), mental health comorbidity, pre-index seizure, type of epilepsy diagnosis, presence of AED-interacting medications and any bioequivalent AED switch. The covariates included age, gender, and geographic region of residence. RESULTS A total of 5.3 % (166/3,140) of patients on AED monotherapy had experienced a seizure or a seizure-related event requiring urgent care at 1-year follow-up. The multivariate analysis of the combined cohort showed that pre-index seizures/seizure-related events (odds ratio [OR] 4.23; 95 % confidence interval [CI] 2.77-6.46), any mental health comorbidity (OR 3.50; 95 % CI 2.14-5.70), and Charlson Comorbidity Index ≥1 (OR 2.91; 95 % CI 1.98-4.28) were significantly associated with post-index seizures/seizure-related events. Patients residing in Northeastern USA had a higher likelihood of a post-index seizure (OR 1.90; 95 % CI 1.17-3.08) than patients residing in the Southern region of the USA. Bioequivalent AED switch, type of epilepsy diagnosis, AED adherence, and presence of AED-interacting medications were not associated with seizure recurrence in the combined cohort analysis (p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Epilepsy patients with comorbid conditions (both mental and somatic diseases) and prior seizures were more likely to experience seizures at 1-year follow-up. Non-adherent patients and patients with bioequivalent AED switches appeared to show no increased likelihood of seizure at follow-up. Clinicians may consider these findings before starting or transitioning to an AED monotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Shcherbakova
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Administrative Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Western New England University, 1215 Wilbraham Road, Springfield, MA, 01119, USA,
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Yasiry Z, Shorvon SD. How phenobarbital revolutionized epilepsy therapy: the story of phenobarbital therapy in epilepsy in the last 100 years. Epilepsia 2013. [PMID: 23205960 DOI: 10.1111/epi.12026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Phenobarbital (phenobarbitone) was first used as an antiepileptic drug 100 years ago, in 1912. This article tells the story of the discovery of its antiepileptic action, its early development, and the subsequent course of its clinical use over the 100-year period. The side effects, pharmacokinetics, and misuse of barbiturates are considered, along with the more recent clinical trials and the drug's current clinical utilization. The introduction of controlled drug regulations, the comparative cost of phenobarbital, and its inclusion on the World Health Organization (WHO) essential drug list are discussed. It is one of the few drugs on the formulary in 1912 that is still listed today, and remarkably its efficacy in epilepsy has not been significantly bettered. The current recommendation by the WHO is that phenobarbital should be offered as the first option for therapy for convulsive epilepsy in adults and children if availability can be ensured. This is rated as a strong recommendation because of the proven efficacy and low cost of phenobarbital, and despite its perceived side-effect profile and the practical problems of access. Whether this recommendation puts "a hierarchy on the brain," as has been suggested, is arguable. Much still needs to be learned about the drug's effects, and the issues raised by phenobarbital have lessons for all antiepileptic drug therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeid Yasiry
- UCL Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London, United Kingdom
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