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Malmgren K. Patient-centered outcomes and quality of life in elderly people with epilepsy: A focused review. Seizure 2024:S1059-1311(24)00191-2. [PMID: 38945798 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2024.06.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2024] [Revised: 06/13/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024] Open
Abstract
The highly heterogeneous population of elderly with epilepsy continues to increase as the incidence of epilepsy rises with increasing life expectancy. There are many aspects to consider in the treatment of elderly with epilepsy, e g comorbidities and the complexity of polypharmacy. The literature on quality-of-life (QoL) and patient-centered outcomes in elderly in general as well as in elderly with epilepsy is limited, most of the existing studies report results from quality-of-life surveys. No such QoL questionnaires have, however, in the validation process explored issues specific to the elderly. Seizure frequency, co-morbidities and depression predicted QoL in elderly with epilepsy and the energy/fatigue domain scored worst when QOLIE-31 was used. In the handful of qualitative interview studies identified in this review, a number of topics specific for elderly with epilepsy were explored. Some of these were difficulties with information gathering, the importance of maintaining normalcy, incongruence with provider goals and wanting to be more involved in the treatment. There is a need for further exploration of the specific concerns of elderly with epilepsy. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the studies and emphasizes the importance of involving elderly people with epilepsy in their own care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristina Malmgren
- Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Sahlgrenska Academy at Gothenburg University, Gothenburg, Sweden; Department of Neurology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden.
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Thomas JA, Ditchman NM, Guidotti Breting L, Narayanan J. Quality of life in people with epilepsy: The associations of anti-seizure medications and biopsychosocial variables. Epilepsy Behav 2024; 152:109664. [PMID: 38320411 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2024.109664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
People with epilepsy, on average, experience lower quality of life (QOL) than healthy controls. This study examined the associations between specific anti-seizure medications, biopsychosocial factors, and QOL in people with epilepsy. Analysis of covariance revealed that individuals taking three or more anti-seizure medications had significantly lower QOL than those taking levetiracetam. Findings also demonstrated that when examining biopsychosocial factors as predictors of QOL in hierarchical regression, anxiety, depression, and daytime sleepiness were significant predictors of QOL. Once these factors were entered into the model, number of medications was no longer significant. The final model predicted 59.6% of the variance in QOL. In clinical settings, providers should take a patient-centered approach that includes regular assessment of QOL and an emphasis on good psychological care for those coping with anxiety, depression, and sleep difficulty. These findings underscore the importance of addressing psychological health and sleep factors within the epilepsy population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia A Thomas
- Illinois Institute of Technology, 3424 S. State St, Chicago, IL 60616, United States; Barrow Neurological Institute, 222 W. Thomas Road, Ste. 315, Phoenix, AZ 85013, United States.
| | - Nicole M Ditchman
- Illinois Institute of Technology, 3424 S. State St, Chicago, IL 60616, United States.
| | - Leslie Guidotti Breting
- NorthShore University Health System, 909 Davis St, Ste. 160, Evanston, IL 60201, United States.
| | - Jaishree Narayanan
- NorthShore University Health System, 909 Davis St, Ste. 160, Evanston, IL 60201, United States; Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, United States.
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Nadeem MD, Memon S, Qureshi K, Farooq U, Memon UA, Aparna F, Kachhadia MP, Shahzeen F, Ali S, Varrassi G, Kumar L, Kumar S, Kumar S, Khatri M. Seizing the Connection: Exploring the Interplay Between Epilepsy and Glycemic Control in Diabetes Management. Cureus 2023; 15:e45606. [PMID: 37868449 PMCID: PMC10588297 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.45606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Epilepsy, a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures, and diabetes, a metabolic disorder characterized by impaired regulation of glucose levels, are two distinct conditions that may appear unrelated at first glance. Nevertheless, recent scholarly investigations have revealed these entities' intricate and ever-evolving interplay. This review initially delves into the intricate interplay between epilepsy and its potential ramifications on glycemic control. Seizures, particularly those accompanied by convulsive manifestations, have the potential to induce acute perturbations in blood glucose levels via diverse mechanisms, encompassing the liberation of stress hormones, the emergence of insulin resistance, and the dysregulation of the autonomic nervous system. Comprehending these intricate mechanisms is paramount in customizing productive strategies for managing diabetes in individuals with epilepsy. On the contrary, it is worth noting that diabetes can substantially impact the trajectory and control of epilepsy. The correlation between hyperglycemia and an elevated susceptibility to seizures, as well as the potential for exacerbating the intensity of epilepsy, has been established. This narrative review offers a concise exposition of the intricate interplay between epilepsy and glycemic control within diabetes management. The objective of exploring reciprocal influences, underlying mechanisms, and common risk factors is to augment the clinical comprehension of this intricate interconnection. In essence, this acquired knowledge possesses the potential to serve as a guiding compass for healthcare professionals, enabling them to craft bespoke therapeutic approaches that enhance the holistic welfare of individuals grappling with the coexistence of epilepsy and diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Siraj Memon
- Medicine, Liaquat University of Medical & Health Sciences, Jamshoro, PAK
| | - Kashifa Qureshi
- Medicine, Liaquat University of Medical & Health Sciences, Jamshoro, PAK
| | - Umer Farooq
- Medicine, CMH Lahore Medical College and Institute of Dentistry, Lahore, PAK
| | - Unaib Ahmed Memon
- Neurology and Internal Medicine, Liaquat University of Medical and Health Sciences, Jamshoro, PAK
| | - Fnu Aparna
- Medicine, Ghulam Muhammad Mahar Medical College, Sukkur, PAK
| | | | - Fnu Shahzeen
- Internal Medicine, Jinnah Sindh Medical University, Karachi, PAK
| | - Sameer Ali
- Internal Medicine, Liaquat University of Medical and Health Sciences, Jamshoro, PAK
| | | | - Lakshya Kumar
- General Medicine, Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay Medical College, Rajkot, IND
| | - Sumeet Kumar
- Internal Medicine, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, PAK
| | - Satesh Kumar
- Medicine and Surgery, Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto Medical College, Karachi, PAK
| | - Mahima Khatri
- Medicine and Surgery, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, PAK
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Piccenna L, O'Dwyer R, Leppik I, Beghi E, Giussani G, Costa C, DiFrancesco JC, Dhakar MB, Akamatsu N, Cretin B, Krämer G, Faught E, Kwan P. Management of epilepsy in older adults: A critical review by the ILAE Task Force on Epilepsy in the elderly. Epilepsia 2023; 64:567-585. [PMID: 36266921 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Revised: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Older adults represent a highly heterogeneous population, with multiple diverse subgroups. Therefore, an individualized approach to treatment is essential to meet the needs of each unique subgroup. Most comparative studies focusing on treatment of epilepsy in older adults have found that levetiracetam has the best chance of long-term seizure freedom. However, there is a lack of studies investigating other newer generation antiseizure medications (ASMs). Although a number of randomized clinical trials have been performed on older adults with epilepsy, the number of participants studied was generally small, and they only investigated short-term efficacy and tolerability. Quality of life as an outcome is often missing but is necessary to understand the effectiveness and possible side effects of treatment. Prognosis needs to move beyond the focus on seizure control to long-term patient-centered outcomes. Dosing studies with newer generation ASMs are needed to understand which treatments are the best in the older adults with different comorbidities. In particular, more high-level evidence is required for older adults with Alzheimer's disease with epilepsy and status epilepticus. Future treatment studies should use greater homogeneity in the inclusion criteria to allow for clearer findings that can be comparable with other studies to build the existing treatment evidence base.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loretta Piccenna
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Neurology, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Rebecca O'Dwyer
- Department of Neurological Sciences, Rush Medical College, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Ilo Leppik
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Ettore Beghi
- Department of Neuroscience, Mario Negri Institute for Pharmacological Research, Scientific Institute for Research and Health Care, Milan, Italy
| | - Giorgia Giussani
- Department of Neuroscience, Mario Negri Institute for Pharmacological Research, Scientific Institute for Research and Health Care, Milan, Italy
| | - Cinzia Costa
- Neuroscience Platform, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Jacopo C DiFrancesco
- Department of Neurology, Azienda Socio Sanitaria Territoriale (ASST) - San Gerardo Hospital, University of Milan-Bicocca, Monza, Italy
| | - Monica B Dhakar
- Department of Neurology, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Naoki Akamatsu
- Department of Neurology, Fukuoka Sanno Hospital, International University of Health and Welfare School of Medicine, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Benjamin Cretin
- Neuropsychology Unit, Department of Neurology, Strasbourg University Hospitals, Strasbourg, France
| | | | - Edward Faught
- Department of Neurology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Patrick Kwan
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Neurology, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Medicine, Royal Melbourne Hospital, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Lezaic N, Gore G, Josephson CB, Wiebe S, Jetté N, Keezer MR. The medical treatment of epilepsy in the elderly: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Epilepsia 2019; 60:1325-1340. [PMID: 31185130 DOI: 10.1111/epi.16068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2019] [Revised: 05/15/2019] [Accepted: 05/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) in elderly individuals with epilepsy. METHODS We searched four electronic databases as well as bibliographies and conference abstracts. Published and unpublished, randomized, or quasirandomized trials reporting the use of AEDs in people aged at least 60 years with epilepsy were eligible for inclusion. Two authors independently carried out each stage of the review. Meta-analyses were performed using random-effects models. RESULTS Three thousand four hundred seventeen titles and abstracts were reviewed. Eighteen studies evaluating 12 AEDs met all eligibility criteria. Ten studies, comprising 1999 subjects, were suitable for meta-analysis. Among the elderly with epilepsy, lamotrigine (LTG) is better tolerated relative to carbamazepine (pooled weighted risk ratio [RR] of experiencing withdrawal due to adverse events = 1.83, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.23-2.43). There is a higher probability, although with a 95% CI of borderline importance, of seizure freedom when comparing levetiracetam to LTG (RR = 0.83, 95% CI = 0.68-0.97). Single studies provide evidence for the efficacy and/or tolerability of other AEDs in the elderly, including brivaracetam, gabapentin, lacosamide, perampanel, and topiramate. The risk of bias of the included studies was frequently low or unclear, although there was on occasion a high risk of bias (especially with regard to selective reporting). SIGNIFICANCE There is some evidence for AED use in the elderly with epilepsy. More evidence is required, comparing newer AEDs to prior generations as well as examining the effects of determinants such as frailty, to guide clinicians when treating this rapidly growing patient population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nastasija Lezaic
- Research Centre of the University of Montreal Hospital Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,Department of Neurosciences, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Geneviève Gore
- Schulich Library of Physical Sciences, Life Sciences, and Engineering, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Colin B Josephson
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences and Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Samuel Wiebe
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences and Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Nathalie Jetté
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences and Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Department of Neurology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
| | - Mark R Keezer
- Research Centre of the University of Montreal Hospital Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,Department of Neurosciences, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,Department of Social and Preventative Medicine, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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Interictal dysphoric disorder of epilepsy: A continuing diagnostic challenge. Epilepsy Behav 2019; 95:34-38. [PMID: 31022662 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2019.03.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2019] [Revised: 03/11/2019] [Accepted: 03/18/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The interictal dysphoric disorder (IDD) is a proposed epilepsy-specific mood disorder characterized by a cluster of symptoms such as depressed mood, irritability, euphoria, and anxiety. Since its introduction, the concept of IDD has been a matter of debate. This study aimed to evaluate the frequency of the IDD and the association between psychiatric disorders and IDD. We also analyzed potential associations between IDD symptoms and epilepsy-related variables. METHODS A consecutive group of 118 outpatients with epilepsy were screened. Ninety-six patients met inclusion criteria and examined by a trained psychiatrist using Structured Clinical Interview for Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders fourth edition Text Revision (DSM-IV-TR) (SCID-I). In order to diagnose IDD, all participants completed the self-rating questionnaire consisting of a set of questions aimed to assess the eight key symptoms of IDD. On completion of the questionnaire, the psychiatrist reviewed all the data for completeness and accuracy with the patient. RESULTS In our group with epilepsy, we observed IDD in 49.0% (47 of 96) of people with epilepsy (PWE) with substantial overlap (85%) of IDD with depressive and anxiety disorders. The frequency of depressive mood, anergia, and irritability was significantly higher in patients with IDD diagnosis. Older age at epilepsy onset was associated with IDD. STUDY LIMITATIONS The cross-sectional study design, a consecutive sample of patients presenting to a tertiary referral center, a small sample size of the population, and applied methodology could have affected the results. CONCLUSIONS The present study indicates that IDD occurs in high frequency in PWE with a substantial overlap of IDD with depressive and anxiety disorders. The study highlights the importance of the observer-based systematic approach for diagnosing IDD and the usage of operationalized diagnostic criteria for psychiatric comorbidities in PWE. Future research should be directed at validating whether IDD is nosologically independent of other psychiatric conditions.
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Baranowski CJ. The quality of life of older adults with epilepsy: A systematic review. Seizure 2018; 60:190-197. [DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2018.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2018] [Revised: 05/29/2018] [Accepted: 06/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
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Bjørke AB, Nome CG, Falk RS, Gjerstad L, Taubøll E, Heuser K. Evaluation of long-term antiepileptic drug use in patients with temporal lobe epilepsy: Assessment of risk factors for drug resistance and polypharmacy. Seizure 2018; 61:63-70. [PMID: 30099235 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2018.07.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2017] [Revised: 06/12/2018] [Accepted: 07/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate risk factors for drug resistance and polypharmacy in patients with temporal lobe epilepsy. METHODS Patients with temporal lobe epilepsy, treated for more than 5 years, completed questionnaires on antiepileptic drug use and effect. Logistic regression models were used for analysis of risk factors. RESULTS Of 135 patients included in the study, 65% were classified as drug resistant and 41% identified as using polypharmacy. Poor effects associated with first-choice antiepileptic drug were reported by 59% of the patients, and 70% reported poor effects of second-line treatment. The most frequently used first-generation antiepileptic drugs had a similar mean effect to those of second-generation. Univariate regression analyses showed a significant association between drug resistance and mesial temporal sclerosis, seizure onset below 18 years, and lack of family history of epilepsy. However, multivariate regression analysis showed no association with any demographic or clinical features. Unsuccessful treatment with the first antiepileptic drug increased the risk of drug resistance by 18 times, and the risk of poor effect from the second antiepileptic drug by 9 times. Disease duration was associated with annual risk for drug resistance of 7% and for polypharmacy of 5%. CONCLUSIONS A poor effect from initial pharmacotherapy is the only early risk factor for drug resistance found in this study. Long disease duration increases the risk of drug resistance and polypharmacy. Second-generation antiepileptic drugs provide no additional effect for poor responders to first-generation drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnes Balint Bjørke
- Department of Neurology, Division of Clinical Neuroscience, Rikshospitalet, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway; Department of Neurology, Division of Neurology, Rheumatology and Habilitation, Drammen Hospital, Vestre Viken Hospital Trust, Drammen, Norway.
| | - Cecilie Gjessing Nome
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.
| | - Ragnhild Sørum Falk
- Oslo Centre for Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Research Support Services, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.
| | - Leif Gjerstad
- Department of Neurology, Division of Clinical Neuroscience, Rikshospitalet, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway; Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.
| | - Erik Taubøll
- Department of Neurology, Division of Clinical Neuroscience, Rikshospitalet, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway; Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.
| | - Kjell Heuser
- Department of Neurology, Division of Clinical Neuroscience, Rikshospitalet, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.
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Nevitt SJ, Tudur Smith C, Weston J, Marson AG. Lamotrigine versus carbamazepine monotherapy for epilepsy: an individual participant data review. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2018; 6:CD001031. [PMID: 29952431 PMCID: PMC6513029 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd001031.pub4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This is an updated version of the original Cochrane Review published in Issue 11, 2006 of the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews.Epilepsy is a common neurological condition in which abnormal electrical discharges from the brain cause recurrent unprovoked seizures. It is believed that with effective drug treatment up to 70% of individuals with active epilepsy have the potential to become seizure-free, and to go into long-term remission shortly after starting drug therapy with a single antiepileptic drug (AED) in monotherapy.The correct choice of first-line AED for individuals with newly diagnosed seizures is of great importance. It is important that the choice of AEDs for an individual is made using the highest quality evidence regarding the potential benefits and harms of the various treatments.Carbamazepine or lamotrigine are recommended as first-line treatments for new onset focal seizures and as a first- or second-line treatment for generalised tonic-clonic seizures. Performing a synthesis of the evidence from existing trials will increase the precision of the results for outcomes relating to efficacy and tolerability and may assist in informing a choice between the two drugs. OBJECTIVES To review the time to treatment failure, remission and first seizure with lamotrigine compared to carbamazepine when used as monotherapy in people with focal onset seizures (simple or complex focal and secondarily generalised) or generalised onset tonic-clonic seizures (with or without other generalised seizure types). SEARCH METHODS We conducted the first searches for this review in 1997. For the most recent update, we searched the Cochrane Epilepsy Group Specialized Register, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) via the Cochrane Register of Studies Online (CRSO), MEDLINE, Clinical Trials.gov and the WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform on 26 February 2018, without language restrictions SELECTION CRITERIA: Randomised controlled trials comparing monotherapy with either carbamazepine or lamotrigine in children or adults with focal onset seizures or generalised onset tonic-clonic seizures DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: This was an individual participant data (IPD) review. Our primary outcome was time to treatment failure and our secondary outcomes were time to first seizure post randomisation, time to six-month, 12-month and 24-month remission, and incidence of adverse events. We used Cox proportional hazards regression models to obtain trial-specific estimates of hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs), using the generic inverse variance method to obtain the overall pooled HR and 95% CI. MAIN RESULTS We included 14 trials in this review. Individual participant data were available for 2572 participants out of 3787 eligible individuals from nine out of 14 trials: 68% of the potential data. For remission outcomes, a HR of less than one indicated an advantage for carbamazepine; and for first seizure and treatment failure outcomes, a HR of less than one indicated an advantage for lamotrigine.The main overall results were: time to treatment failure for any reason related to treatment (pooled HR adjusted for seizure type: 0.71, 95% CI 0.62 to 0.82, moderate-quality evidence), time to treatment failure due to adverse events (pooled HR adjusted for seizure type: 0.55 (95% CI 0.45 to 0.66, moderate-quality evidence), time to treatment failure due to lack of efficacy (pooled HR for all participants: 1.03 (95% CI 0.75 to 1.41), moderate-quality evidence) showing a significant advantage for lamotrigine compared to carbamazepine in terms of treatment failure for any reason related to treatment and treatment failure due to adverse events, but no different between drugs for treatment failure due to lack of efficacy.Time to first seizure (pooled HR adjusted for seizure type: 1.26, 95% CI 1.12 to 1.41, high-quality evidence) and time to six-month remission (pooled HR adjusted for seizure type: 0.86, 95% CI 0.76 to 0.97, high-quality evidence), showed a significant advantage for carbamazepine compared to lamotrigine for first seizure and six-month remission. We found no difference between the drugs for time to 12-month remission (pooled HR for all participants 0.91, 95% CI 0.77 to 1.07, high-quality evidence) or time to 24-month remission (HR for all participants 1.00, 95% CI 0.80 to 1.25, high-quality evidence), however only two trials followed up participants for more than one year so evidence is limited.The results of this review are applicable mainly to individuals with focal onset seizures; 88% of included individuals experienced seizures of this type at baseline. Up to 50% of the limited number of individuals classified as experiencing generalised onset seizures at baseline may have had their seizure type misclassified, therefore we recommend caution when interpreting the results of this review for individuals with generalised onset seizures.The most commonly reported adverse events for both of the drugs across all of the included trials were dizziness, fatigue, gastrointestinal disturbances, headache and skin problems. The rate of adverse events was similar across the two drugs.The methodological quality of the included trials was generally good, however there is some evidence that the design choice of masked or open-label treatment may have influenced the treatment failure and withdrawal rates of the trials. Hence, we judged the quality of the evidence for the primary outcome of treatment failure to be moderate for individuals with focal onset seizures and low for individuals with generalised onset seizures. For efficacy outcomes (first seizure, remission), we judged the quality of evidence to be high for individuals with focal onset seizures and moderate for individuals with generalised onset seizures. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS Moderate quality evidence indicates that treatment failure for any reason related to treatment or due to adverse events occurs significantly earlier on carbamazepine than lamotrigine, but the results for time to first seizure suggested that carbamazepine may be superior in terms of seizure control. The choice between these first-line treatments must be made with careful consideration. We recommend that future trials should be designed to the highest quality possible with consideration of masking, choice of population, classification of seizure type, duration of follow-up, choice of outcomes and analysis, and presentation of results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah J Nevitt
- University of LiverpoolDepartment of BiostatisticsBlock F, Waterhouse Building1‐5 Brownlow HillLiverpoolUKL69 3GL
| | - Catrin Tudur Smith
- University of LiverpoolDepartment of BiostatisticsBlock F, Waterhouse Building1‐5 Brownlow HillLiverpoolUKL69 3GL
| | - Jennifer Weston
- Institute of Translational Medicine, University of LiverpoolDepartment of Molecular and Clinical PharmacologyClinical Sciences Centre for Research and Education, Lower LaneFazakerleyLiverpoolMerseysideUKL9 7LJ
| | - Anthony G Marson
- Institute of Translational Medicine, University of LiverpoolDepartment of Molecular and Clinical PharmacologyClinical Sciences Centre for Research and Education, Lower LaneFazakerleyLiverpoolMerseysideUKL9 7LJ
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Chen B, Choi H, Hirsch LJ, Katz A, Legge A, Buchsbaum R, Detyniecki K. Psychiatric and behavioral side effects of antiepileptic drugs in adults with epilepsy. Epilepsy Behav 2017; 76:24-31. [PMID: 28931473 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2017.08.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 219] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2017] [Revised: 08/26/2017] [Accepted: 08/27/2017] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Psychiatric and behavioral side effects (PBSEs) are common, undesirable effects associated with antiepileptic drug (AED) use. The objective of the study was to compare the PBSE profiles of older and newer AEDs in a large specialty practice-based sample of patients diagnosed with epilepsy. METHODS As part of the Columbia and Yale AED Database Project, we reviewed patient records including demographics, medical history, AED use, and side effects for 4085 adult patients (age: 18 years) newly started on an AED regimen. Psychiatric and behavioral side effects were determined by patient or physician report in the medical record, which included depressive mood, psychosis, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, irritability, aggression, and tantrum. Significant non-AED predictors of PBSE rate were first determined from 83 variables using logistic regression. Predictors were then controlled for in the comparison analysis of the rate of PBSEs and intolerable PBSEs (PBSEs that led to dosage reduction or discontinuation) between 18 AEDs. RESULTS Psychiatric and behavioral side effects occurred in 17.2% of patients and led to intolerability in 13.8% of patients. History of psychiatric condition(s), secondary generalized seizures, absence seizures, and intractable epilepsy were associated with increased incidence of PBSE. Levetiracetam (LEV) had the greatest PBSE rate (22.1%). This was statistically significant when compared with the aggregate of the other AEDs (P<0.001, OR=6.87). Levetiracetam was also significantly (P<0.001) associated with higher intolerability rate (17.7%), dose decreased rate (9.4%), and complete cessation rate (8.3%), when compared with the aggregate of the other AEDs. Zonisamide (ZNS) was also significantly associated with a higher rate of PBSE (9.7%) and IPBSE (7.9%, all P<0.001). On the other hand, carbamazepine (CBZ), clobazam (CLB), gabapentin (GBP), lamotrigine (LTG), oxcarbazepine (OXC), phenytoin (PHT), and valproate (VPA) were significantly associated with a decreased PBSE rates (P<0.001). Carbamazepine, GBP, LTG, PHT, and VPA were also associated with lower IPBSE rates when compared individually with the aggregate of other AEDs. All other AEDs were found to have intermediate rates that were not either increased or decreased compared with other AEDs. When each AED was compared to LTG, only CBZ had a significantly lower PBSE rate. The main limitations of this study were that the study design was retrospective and not blinded, and the AEDs were not randomly assigned to patients. CONCLUSIONS Psychiatric and behavioral side effects occur more frequently in patients taking LEV and ZNS than any other AED and led to higher rates of intolerability. Lower PBSE rates were seen in patients taking CBZ, CLB, GBP, LTG, OXC, PHT, and VPA. Our findings may help facilitate the AED selection process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baibing Chen
- Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Dept. of Neurology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA; William Beaumont School of Medicine, Oakland University, Rochester, MI, USA.
| | - Hyunmi Choi
- Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Dept. of Neurology, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Lawrence J Hirsch
- Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Dept. of Neurology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Austen Katz
- Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Dept. of Neurology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Alexander Legge
- Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Dept. of Neurology, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Richard Buchsbaum
- Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Dept. of Neurology, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Kamil Detyniecki
- Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Dept. of Neurology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
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Nevitt SJ, Tudur Smith C, Weston J, Marson AG. Lamotrigine versus carbamazepine monotherapy for epilepsy: an individual participant data review. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2016; 11:CD001031. [PMID: 27841445 PMCID: PMC6478073 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd001031.pub3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This is an updated version of the original Cochrane review published in Issue 1, 2006 of the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews.Epilepsy is a common neurological condition in which abnormal electrical discharges from the brain cause recurrent unprovoked seizures. It is believed that with effective drug treatment up to 70% of individuals with active epilepsy have the potential to become seizure-free and to go into long-term remission shortly after starting drug therapy with a single antiepileptic drug (AED) in monotherapy.The correct choice of first-line antiepileptic therapy for individuals with newly diagnosed seizures is of great importance. It is important that the choice of AEDs for an individual is made using the highest quality evidence regarding the potential benefits and harms of the various treatments. It is also important that the effectiveness and tolerability of AEDs appropriate to given seizure types are compared to one another.Carbamazepine or lamotrigine are first-line recommended treatments for new onset partial seizures and as a first- or second-line treatment for generalised tonic-clonic seizures. Performing a synthesis of the evidence from existing trials will increase the precision of the results for outcomes relating to efficacy and tolerability and may assist in informing a choice between the two drugs. OBJECTIVES To review the time to withdrawal, remission and first seizure with lamotrigine compared to carbamazepine when used as monotherapy in people with partial onset seizures (simple or complex partial and secondarily generalised) or generalised onset tonic-clonic seizures (with or without other generalised seizure types). SEARCH METHODS The first searches for this review were run in 1997. For the most recent update we searched the Cochrane Epilepsy Group Specialized Register (17 October 2016), the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) via the Cochrane Register of Studies Online (CRSO, 17 October 2016) and MEDLINE (Ovid, 1946 to 17 October 2016). We imposed no language restrictions. We also contacted pharmaceutical companies and trial investigators. SELECTION CRITERIA Randomised controlled trials in children or adults with partial onset seizures or generalised onset tonic-clonic seizures comparing monotherapy with either carbamazepine or lamotrigine. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS This was an individual participant data (IPD) review. Our primary outcome was time to withdrawal of allocated treatment and our secondary outcomes were time to first seizure post-randomisation, time to six-month, 12-month and 24-month remission, and incidence of adverse events. We used Cox proportional hazards regression models to obtain trial-specific estimates of hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs), using the generic inverse variance method to obtain the overall pooled HR and 95% CI. MAIN RESULTS We included 13 studies in this review. Individual participant data were available for 2572 participants out of 3394 eligible individuals from nine out of 13 trials: 78% of the potential data. For remission outcomes, a HR < 1 indicated an advantage for carbamazepine and for first seizure and withdrawal outcomes a HR < 1 indicated an advantage for lamotrigine.The main overall results (pooled HR adjusted for seizure type) were: time to withdrawal of allocated treatment (HR 0.72, 95% CI 0.63 to 0.82), time to first seizure (HR 1.22, 95% CI 1.09 to 1.37) and time to six-month remission (HR 0.84, 95% CI 0.74 to 0.94), showing a significant advantage for lamotrigine compared to carbamazepine for withdrawal but a significant advantage for carbamazepine compared to lamotrigine for first seizure and six-month remission. We found no difference between the drugs for time to 12-month remission (HR 0.91, 95% CI 0.77 to 1.07) or time to 24-month remission (HR 1.00, 95% CI 0.80 to 1.25), however only two trials followed up participants for more than one year so the evidence is limited.The results of this review are applicable mainly to individuals with partial onset seizures; 88% of included individuals experienced seizures of this type at baseline. Up to 50% of the limited number of individuals classified as experiencing generalised onset seizures at baseline may have had their seizure type misclassified, therefore we recommend caution when interpreting the results of this review for individuals with generalised onset seizures.The most commonly reported adverse events for both of the drugs across all of the included trials were dizziness, fatigue, gastrointestinal disturbances, headache and skin problems. The rate of adverse events was similar across the two drugs.The methodological quality of the included trials was generally good, however there is some evidence that the design choice of masked or open-label treatment may have influenced the withdrawal rates of the trials. Hence, we judged the quality of the evidence for the primary outcome of treatment withdrawal to be moderate for individuals with partial onset seizures and low for individuals with generalised onset seizures. For efficacy outcomes (first seizure, remission), we judged the quality of evidence to be high for individuals with partial onset seizures and moderate for individuals with generalised onset seizures. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS Lamotrigine was significantly less likely to be withdrawn than carbamazepine but the results for time to first seizure suggested that carbamazepine may be superior in terms of seizure control. A choice between these first-line treatments must be made with careful consideration. We recommend that future trials should be designed to the highest quality possible with consideration of masking, choice of population, classification of seizure type, duration of follow-up, choice of outcomes and analysis, and presentation of results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah J Nevitt
- University of LiverpoolDepartment of BiostatisticsBlock F, Waterhouse Building1‐5 Brownlow HillLiverpoolUKL69 3GL
| | - Catrin Tudur Smith
- University of LiverpoolDepartment of BiostatisticsBlock F, Waterhouse Building1‐5 Brownlow HillLiverpoolUKL69 3GL
| | - Jennifer Weston
- Institute of Translational Medicine, University of LiverpoolDepartment of Molecular and Clinical PharmacologyClinical Sciences Centre for Research and Education, Lower LaneFazakerleyLiverpoolUKL9 7LJ
| | - Anthony G Marson
- Institute of Translational Medicine, University of LiverpoolDepartment of Molecular and Clinical PharmacologyClinical Sciences Centre for Research and Education, Lower LaneFazakerleyLiverpoolUKL9 7LJ
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Suda T, Tatsuzawa Y, Mogi T, Yoshino A. Interictal dysphoric disorder in patients with localization-related epilepsy: Diagnostic relationships with DSM-IV psychiatric disorders and the impact of psychosocial burden. Epilepsy Behav 2016; 54:142-7. [PMID: 26708065 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2015.11.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2015] [Revised: 11/17/2015] [Accepted: 11/21/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Some patients with epilepsy develop intermittent and pleomorphic affective-somatoform symptoms, termed interictal dysphoric disorder (IDD). Other psychiatric disorders have been extensively investigated in patients with epilepsy, but there are few clinical studies investigating the comorbidity patterns of IDD and common psychiatric disorders (PDs). In particular, the impact of IDD on the psychosocial burden of patients remains unclear. METHODS The participants were 128 adult Japanese outpatients with localization-related epilepsy (LRE). In order to determine the comorbidity patterns for IDD and PDs, we conducted a comprehensive diagnostic investigation for IDD and DSM-IV psychiatric disorders. Based on these analyses, participants were divided into groups according to the comorbidity patterns for IDD and PDs in order to compare both suicide risk and quality of life (QOL). RESULTS The findings indicated that 19.5% of participants had IDD, and 55.5% had PDs. Younger age at epilepsy onset and refractory complex partial seizures were associated with IDD, but the duration and type of epilepsy were not. Patients with IDD were more likely to have comorbid PDs as follows: mood disorders (odds ratio, OR: 8.30; 95% confidence interval, CI: 3.15-21.83), anxiety disorders (OR: 8.81; 95% CI: 3.30-23.49), and psychotic disorders (OR: 7.72; 95% CI: 2.83-21.06). Group comparisons demonstrated that there were no patients with IDD but without PD. Furthermore, patients with IDD and with PDs had a significantly higher suicide risk and lower QOL compared to the other groups, even after adjusting for the influences of confounding factors. CONCLUSION Interictal dysphoric disorder adds extreme psychosocial burden and is associated with multiple PDs in patients with LRE. The present study suggests that IDD has a specific prognostic significance. However, whether IDD is nosologically independent from conditions diagnosed using standardized psychiatric diagnostic systems such as DSM-IV must be further assessed by future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tetsufumi Suda
- Department of Psychiatry, National Defense Medical College, 3-2 Namiki, Tokorozawa-shi, Saitama 359-8513, Japan
| | - Yasutaka Tatsuzawa
- Department of Psychiatry, National Defense Medical College, 3-2 Namiki, Tokorozawa-shi, Saitama 359-8513, Japan.
| | - Taichi Mogi
- Department of Psychiatry, National Defense Medical College, 3-2 Namiki, Tokorozawa-shi, Saitama 359-8513, Japan
| | - Aihide Yoshino
- Department of Psychiatry, National Defense Medical College, 3-2 Namiki, Tokorozawa-shi, Saitama 359-8513, Japan
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13
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Jacoby A, Sudell M, Tudur Smith C, Crossley J, Marson AG, Baker GA. Quality-of-life outcomes of initiating treatment with standard and newer antiepileptic drugs in adults with new-onset epilepsy: findings from the SANAD trial. Epilepsia 2015; 56:460-72. [PMID: 25630353 DOI: 10.1111/epi.12913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/04/2014] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare quality-of-life (QoL) outcomes over 2 years following initiation of treatment with a standard or newer antiepileptic drug (AED) in adults with new-onset epilepsy. To examine the impact of seizure remission and failure of initial treatment on QoL outcomes measured over 2 years. METHODS We conducted a pragmatic, randomized, unblinded, multicenter, parallel-group clinical trial (the Standard and New Antiepileptic Drugs [SANAD] trial) comparing clinical and cost effectiveness of initiating treatment with carbamazepine versus lamotrigine, gabapentin, oxcarbazepine and topiramate, and valproate versus lamotrigine and topiramate. QoL data were collected by mail at baseline, 3 months, and at 1 and 2 years using validated measures. These data were analyzed using longitudinal data models. Continuous QoL measures, time to 12-month remission and time to treatment withdrawal were explored using joint models. RESULTS Baseline questionnaires were returned by 1,575 adults; 1,439 returned the 3-month questionnaire, 1,274 returned the 1-year questionnaire, and 1,121 returned the 2-year questionnaire. There were few statistically significant differences between drugs over 2 years in QoL outcomes. Significant association was identified between QoL scores over the 2-year time frame and the risk of experiencing a 12-month remission or treatment withdrawal over that period. SIGNIFICANCE The choice of initial treatment had no significant effect on QoL by 2-year follow-up. However, overall QoL was reduced with continued seizures, adverse events, and failure of the initial treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann Jacoby
- Department of Public Health &Policy, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
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Abstract
Epilepsy is the most common serious neurological disorder in the elderly after stroke and dementia. It may be more important for elderly people because it is intermittent and unpredictable. There is no reliable diagnostic test and so its diagnosis and management requires clinical acumen and experience. The situation is further complicated because the elderly may have many comorbidities and therefore may have many other reasons for losing consciousness. Despite their growing number, there is remarkably little research to underpin the best epilepsy management in the elderly. This article summarizes the scope of epilepsy in elderly people, highlights cerebrovascular and neurodegenerative diseases as the main underlying etiologies, explores the diagnostic challenges in this age group, including the hurdles and processes in their investigation, and examines pertinent clinical management issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann Johnston
- Department of Neurology, Morriston Hospital, Swansea, UK.
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