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Wirrell EC, Lagae L, Scheffer IE, Cross JH, Specchio N, Strzelczyk A. Practical considerations for the use of fenfluramine to manage patients with Dravet syndrome or Lennox-Gastaut syndrome in clinical practice. Epilepsia Open 2024. [PMID: 38962968 DOI: 10.1002/epi4.12998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2024] [Revised: 05/20/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Fenfluramine (FFA), an antiseizure medication (ASM) with serotonergic and sigma-1 receptor activity, is used to manage patients with developmental and epileptic encephalopathies (DEEs). It is approved in the US for treating seizures associated with Dravet syndrome (DS) and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS) in patients ≥2 years old and as add-on therapy for seizures associated with DS and LGS in the EU, UK, and Japan in similarly aged patients. Consensus guidelines for treatment of DS have recommended FFA to be an early-line ASM, and it has also shown efficacy in managing seizures associated with LGS. DS and LGS are DEEs associated with a range of seizure types, developmental impairments, and multiple comorbidities. Here we provide case vignettes describing 4 patients (3 DS and 1 LGS) aged 4-29 years old in whom up to 14 ASMs had previously failed, to illustrate real-world practice issues encountered by neurologists. This review provides guidance on the use of FFA in the context of ASM polytherapy and drug-drug interactions (DDIs), behavioral issues, dose titration, and adverse events. Along with data from the clinical trial program, these case vignettes emphasize the low risk of DDIs, a generally well-tolerated safety profile, and other seizure and nonseizure benefits (eg, improved cognition and sleep) associated with the use of FFA in DS or LGS. PLAIN LANGUAGE SUMMARY: Fenfluramine is used to treat seizures in individuals with Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, but there are a range of issues that clinicians may face when treating patients. This review highlights four patients from the authors' everyday clinical work and offers guidance and practical considerations by neurologists with expertise in managing these complex conditions related to drug interactions, dosing, and side effects associated with fenfluramine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elaine C Wirrell
- Divisions of Child and Adolescent Neurology and Epilepsy, Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Lieven Lagae
- Member of the European Reference Network EpiCARE, Department of Pediatric Neurology, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ingrid E Scheffer
- Austin Hospital and Royal Children''s Hospital, Florey and Murdoch Children's Research Institutes, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - J Helen Cross
- Developmental Neurosciences Research & Teaching Department, UCL NIHR BRC Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
- Department of Neurology, Great Ormond Street Hospital, London, UK
| | - Nicola Specchio
- Neurology, Epilepsy and Movement Disorders Unit, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Full Member of European Reference Network EpiCARE, Rome, Italy
| | - Adam Strzelczyk
- Goethe-University Frankfurt, Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main and Department of Neurology, University Hospital Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
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Celdran de Castro A, Nascimento FA, Beltran-Corbellini Á, Toledano R, Garcia-Morales I, Gil-Nagel A, Aledo-Serrano Á. Levetiracetam, from broad-spectrum use to precision prescription: A narrative review and expert opinion. Seizure 2023; 107:121-131. [PMID: 37023625 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2023.03.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 03/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 04/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Levetiracetam (LEV) is an antiseizure medication (ASM) whose mechanism of action involves the modulation of neurotransmitters release through binding to the synaptic vesicle glycoprotein 2A. It is a broad-spectrum ASM displaying favorable pharmacokinetic and tolerability profiles. Since its introduction in 1999, it has been widely prescribed, becoming the first-line treatment for numerous epilepsy syndromes and clinical scenarios. However, this might have resulted in overuse. Increasing evidence, including the recently published SANAD II trials, suggests that other ASMs are reasonable therapeutic options for generalized and focal epilepsies. Not infrequently, these ASMs show better safety and effectiveness profiles compared to LEV (partially due to the latter's well-known cognitive and behavioral adverse effects, present in up to 20% of patients). Moreover, it has been shown that the underlying etiology of epilepsy is significantly linked to ASMs response in particular scenarios, highlighting the importance of an etiology-based ASM choice. In the case of LEV, it has demonstrated an optimal effectiveness in Alzheimer's disease, Down syndrome, and PCDH19-related epilepsies whereas, in other etiologies such as malformations of cortical development, it may show negligible effects. This narrative review analyzes the current evidence related to the use of LEV for the treatment of seizures. Illustrative clinical scenarios and practical decision-making approaches are also addressed, therefore aiming to define a rational use of this ASM.
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Patient profile, management, and quality of life associated with Dravet syndrome: a cross-sectional, multicentre study of 80 patients in Spain. Sci Rep 2023; 13:3355. [PMID: 36849632 PMCID: PMC9971205 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-30273-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to describe the profile of patients diagnosed with Dravet syndrome (DS), their clinical management, and the impact of DS on their quality of life (QoL) and family. Data of 80 patients from 11 centres in Spain was collected. Patients (47.5% female) were 12.7 (9.6) years on average (SD, standard deviation). Despite the first episode occurred when patients were a mean (SD) of 0.4 (0.2) years, DS was not diagnosed until they were 6.9 (10.1) years old. The majority (86.7%) had SCN1A gene mutations and 73.4% had seizures during the last year (mostly generalized motor seizures [47.8%]). The mean (SD) number of status epilepticus episodes was 3.6 (8.0) since diagnosis and 0.1 (0.5) in the last year. On the Health Utilities Index Mark (HUI) multi-attribute scale, the mean global score (SD) was 0.56 (0.24) in HUI2 and 0.32 (0.37) in HUI3. The impact of the disease was severe in most patients (HUI2, 81%; HUI3, 83.5%). In the Care-related QoL (CarerQol) the mean (SD) well-being score was 7.2 (2.1). Most caregivers (90%) were satisfied with their caregiving tasks, although 75% had difficulties combining these tasks with daily activities, 68.8% reported mental health problems and 61.2% physical problems.
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Strzelczyk A, Schubert-Bast S. Psychobehavioural and Cognitive Adverse Events of Anti-Seizure Medications for the Treatment of Developmental and Epileptic Encephalopathies. CNS Drugs 2022; 36:1079-1111. [PMID: 36194365 PMCID: PMC9531646 DOI: 10.1007/s40263-022-00955-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The developmental and epileptic encephalopathies encompass a group of rare syndromes characterised by severe drug-resistant epilepsy with onset in childhood and significant neurodevelopmental comorbidities. The latter include intellectual disability, developmental delay, behavioural problems including attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder and autism spectrum disorder, psychiatric problems including anxiety and depression, speech impairment and sleep problems. Classical examples of developmental and epileptic encephalopathies include Dravet syndrome, Lennox-Gastaut syndrome and tuberous sclerosis complex. The mainstay of treatment is with multiple anti-seizure medications (ASMs); however, the ASMs themselves can be associated with psychobehavioural adverse events, and effects (negative or positive) on cognition and sleep. We have performed a targeted literature review of ASMs commonly used in the treatment of developmental and epileptic encephalopathies to discuss the latest evidence on their effects on behaviour, mood, cognition, sedation and sleep. The ASMs include valproate (VPA), clobazam, topiramate (TPM), cannabidiol (CBD), fenfluramine (FFA), levetiracetam (LEV), brivaracetam (BRV), zonisamide (ZNS), perampanel (PER), ethosuximide, stiripentol, lamotrigine (LTG), rufinamide, vigabatrin, lacosamide (LCM) and everolimus. Bromide, felbamate and other sodium channel ASMs are discussed briefly. Overall, the current evidence suggest that LEV, PER and to a lesser extent BRV are associated with psychobehavioural adverse events including aggressiveness and irritability; TPM and to a lesser extent ZNS are associated with language impairment and cognitive dulling/memory problems. Patients with a history of behavioural and psychiatric comorbidities may be more at risk of developing psychobehavioural adverse events. Topiramate and ZNS may be associated with negative effects in some aspects of cognition; CBD, FFA, LEV, BRV and LTG may have some positive effects, while the remaining ASMs do not appear to have a detrimental effect. All the ASMs are associated with sedation to a certain extent, which is pronounced during uptitration. Cannabidiol, PER and pregabalin may be associated with improvements in sleep, LTG is associated with insomnia, while VPA, TPM, LEV, ZNS and LCM do not appear to have detrimental effects. There was variability in the extent of evidence for each ASM: for many first-generation and some second-generation ASMs, there is scant documented evidence; however, their extensive use suggests favourable tolerability and safety (e.g. VPA); second-generation and some third-generation ASMs tend to have the most robust evidence documented over several years of use (TPM, LEV, PER, ZNS, BRV), while evidence is still being generated for newer ASMs such as CBD and FFA. Finally, we discuss how a variety of factors can affect mood, behaviour and cognition, and untangling the associations between the effects of the underlying syndrome and those of the ASMs can be challenging. In particular, there is enormous heterogeneity in cognitive, behavioural and developmental impairments that is complex and can change naturally over time; there is a lack of standardised instruments for evaluating these outcomes in developmental and epileptic encephalopathies, with a reliance on subjective evaluations by proxy (caregivers); and treatment regimes are complex involving multiple ASMs as well as other drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Strzelczyk
- Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main, Center of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Goethe-University and University Hospital Frankfurt, Schleusenweg 2-16, 60528, Frankfurt am Main, Germany. .,LOEWE Center for Personalized and Translational Epilepsy Research (CePTER), Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
| | - Susanne Schubert-Bast
- Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main, Center of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Goethe-University and University Hospital Frankfurt, Schleusenweg 2-16, 60528, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.,LOEWE Center for Personalized and Translational Epilepsy Research (CePTER), Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.,Department of Neuropediatrics, Goethe-University and University Hospital Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
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He Z, Li Y, Zhao X, Li B. Dravet Syndrome: Advances in Etiology, Clinical Presentation, and Treatment. Epilepsy Res 2022; 188:107041. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2022.107041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Revised: 10/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Bjurulf B, Reilly C, Hallböök T. Caregiver reported seizure precipitants and measures to prevent seizures in children with Dravet syndrome. Seizure 2022; 103:3-10. [DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2022.09.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Revised: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
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Guerrini R, Specchio N, Aledo‐Serrano Á, Pringsheim M, Darra F, Mayer T, Gil‐Nagel A, Polster T, Zuberi SM, Lothe A, Gammaitoni A, Strzelczyk A. An examination of the efficacy and safety of fenfluramine in adults, children, and adolescents with Dravet syndrome in a real-world practice setting: A report from the Fenfluramine European Early Access Program. Epilepsia Open 2022; 7:578-587. [PMID: 35801621 PMCID: PMC9712464 DOI: 10.1002/epi4.12624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the efficacy and safety of fenfluramine in patients with Dravet syndrome (DS) in three age groups: <6, 6-17, and ≥18 years old, treated in a real-world setting. METHODS Patients with DS were treated with fenfluramine in the European Union Early Access Program (EAP). Following a 28-day baseline period to establish the pretreatment monthly convulsive seizure frequency (MCSF), fenfluramine was started at a dose chosen by the treating physician and gradually titrated based on efficacy and tolerability up to a maximum of 0.7 mg/kg/day. Seizure incidence was recorded in a written diary, and adverse events (AEs) were reported at each patient visit. Cardiovascular safety was assessed by transthoracic echocardiography before treatment started and at least every 6 months thereafter. RESULTS A total of 149 patients have enrolled in the EAP and 63 were <6 years old, 62 were 6-17 years old, and 24 were ≥18 years old. After 3 months of treatment 62%, 53%, and 50% of patients demonstrated ≥75% reduction in MCSF in the <6, 6-17, and ≥18-year-old groups, respectively. This pattern of response was sustained through 12 months of treatment with 55%, 46%, and 80% of the <6, 6-17, and ≥18-year-old groups, respectively, experiencing a ≥75% reduction in MCSF. Most common AEs were loss of appetite (21%) and somnolence (16%). No valvular heart disease or pulmonary artery hypertension was observed. SIGNIFICANCE The magnitude, consistency, and durability of the response to add-on fenfluramine is consistent across age groups in patients with Dravet syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renzo Guerrini
- Children's Hospital A MeyerUniversity of Florence, Full Member of European Reference Network on Rare and Complex Epilepsies EpiCAREFlorenceItaly
| | - Nicola Specchio
- Rare and Complex Epilepsy Unit, Department of NeuroscienceBambino Gesù Children's Hospital IRCCS, Full Member of European Reference Network on Rare and Complex Epilepsies EpiCARERomeItaly
| | - Ángel Aledo‐Serrano
- Epilepsy Program, Department of NeurologyHospital Ruber InternacionalMadridSpain
| | - Milka Pringsheim
- Clinic for Neuropediatrics and Neurorehabilitation, Epilepsy Center for Children and AdolescentsSchön KlinikVogtareuthGermany,Department for Congenital Heart Disease and Pediatric CardiologyGerman Heart CenterMunichGermany,Research Institute for Rehabilitation, Transition and PalliationParacelsus Medical UniversitySalzburgAustria
| | - Francesca Darra
- Child Neuropsychiatry, Department of Surgical Sciences, Dentistry, Gynecology and PediatricsUniversity of Verona, Full Member of European Reference Network on Rare and Complex Epilepsies EpiCAREVeronaItaly
| | - Thomas Mayer
- Epilepsy Center KleinwachauDresden‐RadebergGermany
| | - Antonio Gil‐Nagel
- Epilepsy Program, Department of NeurologyHospital Ruber InternacionalMadridSpain
| | - Tilman Polster
- Krankenhaus Mara – Bethel Epilepsy Centre, Department of Epileptology, Medical SchoolBielefeld UniversityBielefeldGermany
| | - Sameer M. Zuberi
- Paediatric Neurosciences Research Group, Royal Hospital for Children & Institute of Health & WellbeingUniversity of GlasgowGlasgowUK
| | | | | | - Adam Strzelczyk
- Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine‐Main and Department of NeurologyGoethe‐University FrankfurtFrankfurt am MainGermany
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Strzelczyk A, Kurlemann G, Bast T, Bettendorf U, Kluger G, Mayer T, Neubauer BA, Polster T, von Spiczak S, Trollmann R, Wolff M, Toward T, Gruenert J, Gibson E, Pritchard C, Carroll J, Rosenow F, Schubert-Bast S. Exploring the relationships between composite scores of disease severity, seizure-freedom and quality of life in Dravet syndrome. Neurol Res Pract 2022; 4:22. [PMID: 35659154 PMCID: PMC9169336 DOI: 10.1186/s42466-022-00186-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In Dravet syndrome (DS), a rare epileptic and developmental encephalopathy, the effectiveness of a new treatment is predominantly measured in terms of seizure frequency. However, this may not fully capture the impact of a treatment on the broader aspects of the syndrome and patients' health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Using a previously published survey which collected data from DS patients and their carers on the broader manifestations of their syndrome, their HRQoL, and their experience of seizures, this study created composite measures of symptom severity to offer new perspectives on the multifaceted aspects of this rare condition. METHODS Survey responses on the severity of physical and psychosocial symptoms were combined with independent assessments of disability and care need, to generate three composite symptom scores assessing the manifestations of DS (physical, psychosocial and care requirements). Variation in HRQoL was investigated in multiple regression analyses to assess the strength of association between each of these composite measures and three forms of seizure measures (seizure frequency, days with no seizures and longest interval without seizures), as experienced over a 4- and 12-week period. RESULTS Composite scores were calculated for a cohort of 75 primarily paediatric patients who were enrolled in the study. Strong associations were found between each of the three composite symptom scores and each of the three seizure measures, with the regression coefficient on symptom score highly significant (p ≤ 0.001) in all nine comparisons. Separate regressions using predictors of HRQoL (Kiddy KINDL and Kid KINDL) as the dependent variable were inconclusive, identifying only behavioural/attention problems and status epilepticus as significant predictors of HRQoL. CONCLUSIONS These results allow the development of a composite score that may be useful in developing a clinical understanding of the severity of DS for an individual patient and establishing their treatment goals. Where measurement of long-term sequalae of disease is not feasible, such as clinical trials, correlation of the composite score with experience of seizures and seizure-free periods may allow a better contextualisation of the results of short-term assessments. TRIAL REGISTRATION German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS), DRKS00011894. Registered 16 March 2017, http://www.drks.de/ DRKS00011894.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Strzelczyk
- Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main and Department of Neurology, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Schleusenweg 2-16 (Haus 95), 60528, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
- 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.
| | - Gerhard Kurlemann
- Department of Neuropediatrics, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Thomas Bast
- Epilepsy Center Kork, Kehl-Kork, Germany
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg i. Br., Germany
| | | | - Gerhard Kluger
- Epilepsy Center for Children and Adolescents, Clinic for Neuropediatrics and Neurorehabilitation, Schön Klinik Vogtareuth, Vogtareuth, Germany
- Research Institute "Rehabilitation, Transition, and Palliation", PMU Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Thomas Mayer
- Epilepsy Center Kleinwachau, Radeberg, Dresden, Germany
| | - Bernd A Neubauer
- Department of Neuropediatrics, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | | | - Sarah von Spiczak
- Northern German Epilepsy Center for Children and Adolescents, Raisdorf, Kiel, Germany
| | - Regina Trollmann
- Department of Neuropediatrics, Friedrich-Alexander University, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Markus Wolff
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Vivantes Klinikum Neukölln, Berlin, Germany
| | - Toby Toward
- Zogenix International Limited, Maidenhead, United Kingdom
| | - Jens Gruenert
- Zogenix International Limited, Maidenhead, United Kingdom
| | | | | | | | - Felix Rosenow
- Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main and Department of Neurology, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Schleusenweg 2-16 (Haus 95), 60528, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Center for Personalized Translational Epilepsy Research (CePTER), Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Susanne Schubert-Bast
- Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main and Department of Neurology, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Schleusenweg 2-16 (Haus 95), 60528, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Center for Personalized Translational Epilepsy Research (CePTER), Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Department of Neuropediatrics, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
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Schubert-Bast S, Kay L, Simon A, Wyatt G, Holland R, Rosenow F, Strzelczyk A. Epidemiology, healthcare resource use, and mortality in patients with probable Dravet syndrome: A population-based study on German health insurance data. Epilepsy Behav 2022; 126:108442. [PMID: 34864381 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2021.108442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Revised: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Ten-year retrospective study to assess burden of illness in patients with probable Dravet syndrome (DS) identified from German healthcare data. METHODS In the absence of an International Classification of Diseases code, patients with probable DS were identified using a selection algorithm considering diagnoses and drug prescriptions. Primary analyses were prevalence and demographics; secondary analyses included healthcare costs, annual hospitalization rate (AHR) and length of stay (LOS), medication use, and mortality. RESULTS In the final study year, 64 patients with probable DS (mean [range] age: 33.2 [3-82] years; male: 48%) were identified. Prevalence: 4.7 per 100,000 people. During the study, 160 patients with probable DS were identified and followed up for 1,261 patient-years. Mean cost of healthcare was €11,048 per patient-year (PPY), mostly attributable to inpatient care (47%), medication (26%), and services and devices (19%). Annual healthcare costs were significantly greater for those with prescribed rescue medication (15% of patient-years) vs. without (€16,123 vs. €10,125 PPY, p < 0.001). Mean (standard deviation [SD]) AHR and LOS were 1.1 (1.7) and 17.5 (33.5) days PPY. AHR was significantly greater in patients with prescribed rescue medication vs. without (1.6 [2.0] vs. 1.0 [1.6] PPY, p < 0.001). Mean (SD) number of antiseizure medications prescribed was 2.6 (1.2) PPY and 5.0 (2.5) over the entire observable time for each patient. Mortality rate was significantly higher for probable DS vs. matched controls (11.88% [19 events] vs. 1.19% [172 events], p < 0.001). CONCLUSION Probable DS is associated with substantial healthcare costs in Germany.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanne Schubert-Bast
- Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main, Department of Neurology, University Hospital and Frankfurt and Center for Personalized Translational Epilepsy Research (CePTER), Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany; Department of Neuropediatrics, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
| | - Lara Kay
- Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main, Department of Neurology, University Hospital and Frankfurt and Center for Personalized Translational Epilepsy Research (CePTER), Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
| | | | - Geoffrey Wyatt
- Market Access and Health Economics and Outcomes Research, GW Pharma Ltd, London, UK.
| | - Rowena Holland
- Market Access and Health Economics and Outcomes Research, GW Pharma Ltd, London, UK.
| | - Felix Rosenow
- Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main, Department of Neurology, University Hospital and Frankfurt and Center for Personalized Translational Epilepsy Research (CePTER), Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
| | - Adam Strzelczyk
- Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main, Department of Neurology, University Hospital and Frankfurt and Center for Personalized Translational Epilepsy Research (CePTER), Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
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Strzelczyk A, Schubert-Bast S. A Practical Guide to the Treatment of Dravet Syndrome with Anti-Seizure Medication. CNS Drugs 2022; 36:217-237. [PMID: 35156171 PMCID: PMC8927048 DOI: 10.1007/s40263-022-00898-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Dravet syndrome is a severe developmental and epileptic encephalopathy characterised by refractory seizures and cognitive dysfunction. The treatment is challenging, not least because the seizures are highly drug resistant, requiring multiple anti-seizure medications (ASMs), while some ASMs can exacerbate seizures. Initial treatments include the broad-spectrum ASMs valproate (VPA), and clobazam (CLB) in some regions; however, they are generally insufficient to control seizures. With this in mind, three adjunct ASMs have been approved specifically for the treatment of seizures in patients with Dravet syndrome: stiripentol (STP) in 2007 in the European Union and 2018 in the USA, cannabidiol (CBD) in 2018/2019 (in combination with CLB in the European Union) and fenfluramine (FFA) in 2020. These "add-on" therapies (mostly to VPA/CLB) are used as escalation therapies, with the choice dependent on availability in different countries, patient characteristics and caregiver preferences. Topiramate is also frequently used, with evidence of efficacy in Dravet syndrome, and there is anecdotal evidence of efficacy with bromide, which is frequently used in Germany and Japan. With a growing treatment landscape for Dravet syndrome, there can be practical challenges for clinicians, particularly with issues associated with polypharmacy. This practical guide provides an overview of these main ASMs including their indications/contraindications, mechanism of action, efficacy, safety and tolerability profile, dosage requirements, and laboratory and clinical parameters to be evaluated. Standard laboratory and clinical parameters include blood counts, liver function tests, serum concentrations of ASMs, monitoring the growth of children, as well as weight loss and acceleration of behavioural problems. Regular cardiac monitoring is also important with FFA as it has previously been associated with cases of cardiac valve disease when used in adults at high doses (up to 120 mg/day) in combination with phentermine as a therapy for obesity. Importantly, no signs of heart valve disease have been documented to date at the low doses used in patients with developmental and epileptic encephalopathies. In addition, potential drug-drug interactions and their consequences are a key consideration in everyday practice. Interactions that potentially require dosage adjustments to alleviate adverse events include the following: STP + CLB resulting in increased plasma concentrations of CLB and its active metabolite norclobazam may increase somnolence, and an interaction with STP and VPA may increase gastrointestinal adverse events. Cannabidiol has a bi-directional interaction with CLB producing an increase in plasma concentrations of 7-OH-CBD and norclobazam resulting in the potential for increased somnolence and sedation. In addition, CBD is associated with elevations of liver transaminases particularly in patients taking concomitant VPA. The interaction between FFA and STP requires a dose reduction of FFA. Furthermore, concomitant administration of VPA with topiramate has been associated with encephalopathy and/or hyperammonaemia. Finally, we briefly describe other ASMs used in Dravet syndrome, and current key clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Strzelczyk
- Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main, Center of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Schleusenweg 2-16 (Haus 95), 60528, Frankfurt am Main, Germany. .,LOEWE Center for Personalized and Translational Epilepsy Research (CePTER), Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
| | - Susanne Schubert-Bast
- grid.7839.50000 0004 1936 9721Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main, Center of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Schleusenweg 2-16 (Haus 95), 60528 Frankfurt am Main, Germany ,grid.7839.50000 0004 1936 9721LOEWE Center for Personalized and Translational Epilepsy Research (CePTER), Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany ,grid.7839.50000 0004 1936 9721Department of Neuropediatrics, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
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Cardenal-Muñoz E, Auvin S, Villanueva V, Cross JH, Zuberi SM, Lagae L, Aibar JÁ. Guidance on Dravet syndrome from infant to adult care: Road map for treatment planning in Europe. Epilepsia Open 2021; 7:11-26. [PMID: 34882995 PMCID: PMC8886070 DOI: 10.1002/epi4.12569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2021] [Revised: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Dravet syndrome (DS) is a severe, rare, and complex developmental and epileptic encephalopathy affecting 1 in 16 000 live births and characterized by a drug‐resistant epilepsy, cognitive, psychomotor, and language impairment, and behavioral disorders. Evidence suggests that optimal treatment of seizures in DS may improve outcomes, even though neurodevelopmental impairments are the likely result of both the underlying genetic variant and the epilepsy. We present an updated guideline for DS diagnosis and treatment, taking into consideration care of the adult patient and nonpharmaceutical therapeutic options for this disease. This up‐to‐date guideline, which is based on an extensive review of the literature and culminates with a new treatment algorithm for DS, is a European consensus developed through a survey involving 29 European clinical experts in DS. This guideline will serve professionals in their clinical practice and, as a consequence, will benefit DS patients and their families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Cardenal-Muñoz
- Dravet Syndrome Foundation Spain, Member of the EpiCARE ePAG Group, Madrid, Spain
| | - Stéphane Auvin
- APHP. Service de Neurologie Pédiatrique, Hôpital Robert Debré, Paris, France.,INSERM NeuroDiderot, Université de Paris, Paris, France.,Institut Universitaire de France (IUF), Paris, France
| | - Vicente Villanueva
- Refractory Epilepsy Unit, Hospital Universitario y Politécnico La Fe, Member of the ERN EpiCARE, Valencia, Spain
| | - J Helen Cross
- Department of Developmental Neurosciences, UCL NIHR BRC Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK.,Department of Neurology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, Member of the ERN EpiCARE, London, UK
| | - Sameer M Zuberi
- Paediatric Neurosciences Research Group, Royal Hospital for Children, Member of the ERN EpiCARE, Glasgow, UK.,Institute of Health & Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Lieven Lagae
- Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Member of the ERN EpiCARE, Leuven, Belgium
| | - José Ángel Aibar
- Dravet Syndrome Foundation Spain, Member of the EpiCARE ePAG Group, Madrid, Spain
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12
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Huang CH, Hung PL, Fan PC, Lin KL, Hsu TR, Chou IJ, Ho CS, Chou IC, Lin WS, Lee IC, Fan HC, Chen SJ, Liang JS, Tu YF, Chang TM, Hu SC, Wong LC, Hung KL, Lee WT. Clinical spectrum and the comorbidities of Dravet syndrome in Taiwan and the possible molecular mechanisms. Sci Rep 2021; 11:20242. [PMID: 34642351 PMCID: PMC8511137 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-98517-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Dravet syndrome (DS) is an uncommon epilepsy syndrome that may negatively affect the patients and their caregivers. However, reliable and valid measures of its impact on caregivers and the characteristics of patients with DS in Taiwan are lacking. This study aimed to describe the characteristics of patients with DS and concerns of their caregivers and establish a baseline frequency of disease characteristics using a cross-sectional survey in Taiwan. We assessed the caregivers of patients with DS using an online anonymous questionnaire. The seizure frequency decreased with age, although lacking statistical significance. Vaccines show no influence on the condition of patients with DS. Our findings revealed the highest impact on the domains affecting the caregivers’ daily life, including additional household tasks, symptom observation, further medical plan, and financial issues. Caregivers also expressed concerns regarding the lack of independence/constant care, seizure control, speech/communication, and impacts on siblings because of long-term care of the patients in parents’ absence. Our findings highlight the significant effects of caring for a child with DS on the lives of their caregivers in Taiwan; these findings will help raise awareness regarding the needs of these families. Furthermore, we discussed the possible pathophysiological mechanisms of associated comorbidities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chia-Hsuan Huang
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, National Taiwan University Hospital Yunlin Branch, Yunlin County, Taiwan
| | - Pi-Lien Hung
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital-Kaohsiung, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Pi-Chuan Fan
- Department of Pediatrics, National Taiwan University Hospital and National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Kuang-Lin Lin
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Chang Gung Children's Hospital and Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Ting-Rong Hsu
- Department of Pediatrics, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - I-Jun Chou
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Chang Gung Children's Hospital and Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Che-Sheng Ho
- Department of Pediatrics, Mackay Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - I-Ching Chou
- Division of Pediatrics Neurology, China Medical University Children's Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Sheng Lin
- Department of Pediatrics, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Inn-Chi Lee
- Institute of Medicine, School of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Hueng-Chuen Fan
- Department of Pediatrics, Tungs' Taichung Metroharbor Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Shyi-Jou Chen
- Department of Pediatrics, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Jao-Shwann Liang
- Department of Pediatrics, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Fang Tu
- Department of Pediatrics, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Tung-Ming Chang
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Changhua Christian Children's Hospital, Changhua, Taiwan
| | - Su-Ching Hu
- Department of Pediatrics, Cathay General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Lee-Chin Wong
- Department of Pediatrics, National Taiwan University Hospital and National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Pediatrics, Cathay General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Kun-Long Hung
- Department of Pediatrics, Fu-Jen Catholic University Hospital, Fu-Jen Catholic University, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Wang-Tso Lee
- Department of Pediatrics, National Taiwan University Hospital and National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan. .,Department of Pediatric Neurology, National Taiwan University Children's Hospital, 8, Chung-Shan South Road, Taipei, 100, Taiwan.
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13
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Liu YH, Cheng YT, Tsai MH, Chou IJ, Hung PC, Hsieh MY, Wang YS, Chen YJ, Kuo CY, Lin JJ, Wang HS, Lin KL. Genetics and clinical correlation of Dravet syndrome and its mimics - experience of a tertiary center in Taiwan. Pediatr Neonatol 2021; 62:550-558. [PMID: 34226156 DOI: 10.1016/j.pedneo.2021.05.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2021] [Revised: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dravet syndrome is a severe developmental and epileptic encephalopathy characterized by the onset of prolonged febrile and afebrile seizures in infancy and SCN1A gene mutations. In some cases, non-SCN1A gene mutations can present with a phenotype very similar to that of Dravet syndrome. The aim of this study was to compare phenotypes of patients with SCN1A and non-SCN1A gene mutation-related Dravet syndrome. METHODS Thirty-six patients with Dravet syndrome-like phenotypes were followed from July 2017 to December 2019. We retrospectively analyzed their clinical profiles and genetic surveys. RESULTS Of the 36 enrolled patients, 15 (41.7%) had SCN1A mutations, one (2.8%) had an SCN8A mutation, one (2.8%) had an STX1B mutation, and five females (13.9%) had PCDH 19 mutations. The median age at first seizure onset was 7 months in those with SCN1A mutations, 1.3 years in those with PCDH19 mutations, and 10 months for the remaining patients. The majority of the patients with SCN1A mutations had status epilepticus (80% vs. 20%) and fever-sensitive seizures (76% vs. 31%) compared to those with PCDH19 mutations. The patients with SCN1A-related seizures had a higher rate of focal seizures as first seizure type than those without SCN1A mutations. Three of five (60%) patients with PCDH19 mutations had brain magnetic resonance imaging abnormalities. The three most commonly used antiseizure medications were sodium valproate, levetiracetam, and clobazam. Seven of the 15 patients with SCN1A mutations used stiripentol. The median time from seizure onset to genetic diagnosis was 6.6 years (range 4 months-22.3 years). CONCLUSION The patients with SCN1A mutations in this study had high rates of fever-sensitive seizures, status epilepticus, seizure onset with focal seizure type, and relatively young age at seizure onset. The patients with PCDH19 mutations had a relatively high rate of abnormal brain magnetic resonance imaging findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Hsuan Liu
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Chang Gung Children's Hospital and Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Ting Cheng
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Chang Gung Children's Hospital and Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Meng-Han Tsai
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan; Department of Neurology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - I-Jun Chou
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Chang Gung Children's Hospital and Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan; College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Po-Cheng Hung
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Chang Gung Children's Hospital and Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan; College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Meng-Ying Hsieh
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Chang Gung Children's Hospital and Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan; College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Shan Wang
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Chang Gung Children's Hospital and Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Yun-Ju Chen
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Chang Gung Children's Hospital and Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan; Department of Pediatrics, New Taipei Municipal TuCheng Hospital, New Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Yen Kuo
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Chang Gung Children's Hospital and Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Jainn-Jim Lin
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan; Division of Pediatric Critical Care and Pediatric Neurocritical Care Center, Chang Gung Children's Hospital and Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Huei-Shyong Wang
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Chang Gung Children's Hospital and Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan; College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Kuang-Lin Lin
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Chang Gung Children's Hospital and Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan; College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan.
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14
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Strzelczyk A, Pringsheim M, Mayer T, Polster T, Klotz KA, Muhle H, Alber M, Trollmann R, Spors H, Kluger G, Kurlemann G, Schubert-Bast S. Efficacy, tolerability, and retention of fenfluramine for the treatment of seizures in patients with Dravet syndrome: Compassionate use program in Germany. Epilepsia 2021; 62:2518-2527. [PMID: 34378197 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Revised: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Dravet syndrome (DS) is a rare but severe drug-resistant epilepsy. Before the approval of fenfluramine (FFA) for the treatment of seizures in DS, patients in Germany could receive treatment under a compassionate use program (CUP). METHODS We conducted a multicenter, retrospective, observational study to describe the efficacy, tolerability, and retention of FFA within the CUP. Patients received add-on therapy with oral FFA gradually titrated to a target dose between .13 and .7 mg/kg/day. RESULTS Overall, 78 patients with DS (median age = 8.0 years, range = 2.1-46.0; 53% female, median concomitant antiseizure medications [ASMs] = 3) were treated with FFA for a median duration of 255.5 days (range = 31-572). Responder rates (a ≥50% reduction; n = 78) and seizure-freedom rates at 3 months were 68% and 14% for total seizures, respectively, and 67% and 23% for generalized tonic-clonic seizures. Responder rates were consistent at 6 and 12 months (n = 66 and n = 43, respectively). Median seizure days per month significantly decreased from 10.0 (range = .5-30) to 3.0 (range = 0-30) in the 3-month period before and after FFA treatment (p < .001). Significantly fewer patients reported at least one episode of status epilepticus (28% vs. 14% patients before and after FFA initiation, p = .005). During FFA treatment, 35 (45%) patients were able to discontinue a concomitant ASM. At the last follow-up date, 66 (85%) patients remained on treatment with FFA. The most common adverse events were somnolence (36%), decreased appetite (22%), and ataxia (8%). Forty-eight (62%) patients were reported as having a meaningful global clinical improvement. SIGNIFICANCE In a large cohort of patients, FFA demonstrated efficacy across a range of outcomes including clinically significant reductions in convulsive seizures, and was well tolerated, providing valuable information for real-world practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Strzelczyk
- Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main, Center of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.,Center for Personalized Translational Epilepsy Research, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Milka Pringsheim
- Clinic for Neuropediatrics and Neurorehabilitation, Epilepsy Center for Children and Adolescents, Schön Clinic Vogtareuth, Vogtareuth, Germany
| | - Thomas Mayer
- Epilepsy Center Kleinwachau, Dresden-Radeberg, Germany
| | - Tilman Polster
- Department of Epileptology, Bethel Epilepsy Center, Mara Hospital, Bielefeld University, Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Kerstin A Klotz
- Department of Neuropediatrics and Muscle Disorders, Center for Pediatrics, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.,Berta Ottenstein Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Hiltrud Muhle
- Department of Neuropediatrics, Christian-Albrecht University of Kiel and University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel, Germany
| | - Michael Alber
- Department of Neuropediatrics, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Regina Trollmann
- Department of Neuropediatrics, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Hartwig Spors
- Department of Neuropediatrics, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Gerhard Kluger
- Clinic for Neuropediatrics and Neurorehabilitation, Epilepsy Center for Children and Adolescents, Schön Clinic Vogtareuth, Vogtareuth, Germany.,Research Institute, Rehabilitation, Transition, and Palliation, Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | | | - Susanne Schubert-Bast
- Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main, Center of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.,Center for Personalized Translational Epilepsy Research, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.,Department of Neuropediatrics, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
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15
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Dravet Syndrome-The Polish Family's Perspective Study. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10091903. [PMID: 33924914 PMCID: PMC8125154 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10091903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Revised: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: The aim of the paper is to study the prevalence of Dravet Syndrome (DS) in the Polish population and indicate different factors other than seizures reducing the quality of life in such patients. Method: A survey was conducted among caregivers of patients with DS by the members of the Polish support group of the Association for People with Severe Refractory Epilepsy DRAVET.PL. It included their experience of the diagnosis, seizures, and treatment-related adverse effects. The caregivers also completed the PedsQL survey, which showed the most important problems. The survey received 55 responses from caregivers of patients with DS (aged 2–25 years). Results: Prior to the diagnosis of DS, 85% of patients presented with status epilepticus lasting more than 30 min, and the frequency of seizures (mostly tonic-clonic or hemiconvulsions) ranged from 2 per week to hundreds per day. After the diagnosis of DS, patients remained on polytherapy (drugs recommended in DS). Before diagnosis, some of them had been on sodium channel blockers. Most patients experienced many adverse effects, including aggression and loss of appetite. The frequency of adverse effects was related to the number of drugs used in this therapy, which had an impact on the results of the PedsQL form, particularly in terms of the physical and social spheres. Intensive care unit stays due to severe status epilepticus also had an influence on the results of the PedsQL form. Conclusions: Families must be counseled on non-pharmacologic strategies to reduce seizure risk, including avoidance of triggers that commonly induce seizures (including hyperthermia, flashing lights and patterns, sleep abnormalities). In addition to addressing seizures, holistic care for a patient with Dravet syndrome must involve a multidisciplinary team that includes specialists in physical, occupational and speech therapy, neuropsychology, social work.
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16
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Strzelczyk A, Lagae L, Kurlemann G, Flege S, Bast T, Polster T, Pringsheim M, von Spiczak S, Hipp P, Schubert-Bast S. Klinische Charakteristika und Lebensqualität beim Dravet-Syndrom: Ergebnisse der deutschen Kohorte des „Dravet syndrome caregiver survey“ (DISCUSS). Monatsschr Kinderheilkd 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s00112-021-01153-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Zusammenfassung
Hintergrund
Das Dravet-Syndrom (DS) ist ein seltenes, in der frühen Kindheit beginnendes, therapierefraktäres Epilepsiesyndrom, das mit einer hohen Morbidität und Mortalität verbunden ist.
Fragestellung
Ziele der Querschnittsstudie „Dravet syndrome caregiver survey“ (DISCUSS) sind die Identifizierung und Beschreibung der Faktoren, die einen Einfluss auf die Krankheitslast von Patienten mit DS und ihre Betreuer haben können. Die Ergebnisse der deutschen Kohorte werden vorgestellt.
Material und Methoden
Die Datenerhebung erfolgte durch eine anonyme Befragung von Eltern. Die Ergebnisse wurden für die verschiedenen Altersgruppen statistisch ausgewertet.
Ergebnisse
Der Fragebogen wurde von 68 Eltern der DS-Patienten mit einem durchschnittlichen Alter von 10 Jahren (Median: 9, Spanne: 1–26) ausgefüllt. Nur 3 Patienten (4,4 %) waren in den letzten 3 Monaten anfallsfrei. Insgesamt hatten 97 % der Patienten, die älter als 5 Jahre waren (n = 45), mindestens eine Komorbidität. Die zum Befragungszeitpunkt am häufigsten eingenommenen Antiepileptika waren Valproat, Kaliumbromid, Stiripentol, Clobazam und Topiramat. In der Vergangenheit wurden Natriumkanalblocker, Phenobarbital und Levetiracetam eingesetzt, aktuell fanden diese Antiepileptika nur selten Verwendung. Die Lebensqualität der Patienten war niedriger als die der Allgemeinbevölkerung. Die Erkrankung eines Familienmitglieds mit DS beeinflusst Eltern und Geschwister in hohem Maße.
Diskussion
Trotz individueller Kombinationstherapien sind die meisten Patienten mit DS nicht anfallsfrei. Insgesamt hat sich der Einsatz von beim DS wenig wirksamer Medikamente und der kontraindizierten Natriumkanalblocker zugunsten von wirksameren Medikamenten verschoben. Neue Therapie- und Versorgungskonzepte sind notwendig, um die Versorgung der Patienten mit DS zu verbessern und Eltern und Geschwister zu entlasten.
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Schoonjans AS, Ceulemans B. A critical evaluation of fenfluramine hydrochloride for the treatment of Dravet syndrome. Expert Rev Neurother 2021; 22:351-364. [PMID: 33455486 DOI: 10.1080/14737175.2021.1877540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Dravet Syndrome (DS) is a severe developmental and epileptic encephalopathy. Fenfluramine recently demonstrated to be a highly efficacious and safe treatment option for DS patients. Fenfluramine has been recently approved by the FDA and EMA and is marketed as Fintepla®.Areas covered: DS and the need for additional anticonvulsive treatment options is discussed. The results of three placebo-controlled phase III studies (1 with and 2 without stiripentol) and 2 open label (extension) studies are reviewed. All studies demonstrate a consistent and impressive seizure reduction, confirming the results of two smaller investigator-initiated trials. The mechanism of action of fenfluramine is discussed. Finally, the place of fenfluramine in the future treatment of DS is outlined.Expert opinion: Fenfluramine has a potent anticonvulsive effect in DS. Although not yet fully elucidated, the anticonvulsive mechanism of fenfluramine seems to be mainly serotonergic. Fenfluramine is generally well tolerated. A dose reduction is necessary in combination with stiripentol. Considering new competitors, efficacy seems lower for cannabidiol and is comparable with stiripentol. Preclinical studies indicate a disease specific action and possible disease modification in DS. The latter would support the use of fenfluramine above its anticonvulsive effect and needs to be further elaborated.
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Affiliation(s)
- An-Sofie Schoonjans
- Department of Pediatrics and Pediatric Neurology, Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium.,Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Berten Ceulemans
- Department of Pediatrics and Pediatric Neurology, Antwerp University Hospital, Edegem, Belgium.,Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
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Abstract
Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS), a childhood-onset severe developmental and epileptic encephalopathy (DEE), is an entity that encompasses a heterogenous group of aetiologies, with no single genetic cause. It is characterised by multiple seizure types, an abnormal EEG with generalised slow spike and wave discharges and cognitive impairment, associated with high morbidity and profound effects on the quality of life of patients and their families. Drug-refractory seizures are a hallmark and treatment is further complicated by its multiple morbidities, which evolve over the patient's lifetime. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the current and future options for the treatment of seizures associated with LGS. Six treatments are specifically indicated as adjunct therapies for the treatment of seizures associated with LGS in the US: lamotrigine, clobazam, rufinamide, topiramate, felbamate and most recently cannabidiol. These therapies have demonstrated reductions in drop seizures in 15%-68% of patients across trials, with responder rates (≥ 50% reduction in drop seizures) of 37%-78%. Valproate is still the preferred first-line treatment, generally in combination with lamotrigine or clobazam. Other treatments frequently used off-label include the broad spectrum anti-epileptic drugs (AED) levetiracetam, zonisamide and perampanel, while recent evidence from observational studies has indicated that a newer AED, the levetiracetam analogue brivaracetam, may be effective and well tolerated in LGS patients. Other treatments in clinical development include fenfluramine in late phase III, perampanel, soticlestat-OV953/TAK-953, carisbamate and ganaxolone. Non-pharmacologic interventions include the ketogenic diet, vagus nerve stimulation and surgical interventions; these are also expanding, with the potential for less invasive techniques for corpus callosotomy that have promise for reducing complications. However, despite these advancements, patients continue to experience a significant burden. Because LGS is not a single entity, tailoring of treatment is needed as opposed to a 'one size fits all' approach. Further research is needed into the underlying aetiologies and pathophysiology of LGS, together with advancements in treatments that encompass the spectrum of seizures associated with this complex syndrome.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This review will illustrate the electroclinical description of Dravet syndrome, highlighting the difficulty to understand the correlation between the SCN1A mutation and clinical characteristics, including the frequent comorbidities. Therefore, the efficacy of the new treatment options, which now become available, should not only focus on seizure frequency reduction but also on the long-term effects on these comorbidities, such as intellectual disability, motor and sleep problems. RECENT FINDINGS Comprehensive guidelines for a more standardized treatment in children with Dravet syndrome have been published. First-line and second-line treatments actually include only a few antiseizure medications, such as valproate, clobazam, stiripentol, topiramate and bromide. Cannabidiol and fenfluramine were shown to be very effective drugs and will become standard second-line drugs in Dravet syndrome. There are preliminary data showing that both drugs also have a positive effect on quality of life and on cognitive functioning. Genetic treatments in Dravet syndrome most likely will dramatically change the natural course of this refractory epilepsy syndrome. SUMMARY A better understanding of the full clinical picture is necessary to understand the potential value of new treatment options in Dravet syndrome. Treatment nowadays with the newer drugs becomes much more standardized and effective, and this will have a positive effect on long-term overall outcome.
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20
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Strzelczyk A, Schubert-Bast S. Therapeutic advances in Dravet syndrome: a targeted literature review. Expert Rev Neurother 2020; 20:1065-1079. [PMID: 32799683 DOI: 10.1080/14737175.2020.1801423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Dravet syndrome (DS), a prototypic developmental and genetic epileptic encephalopathy (DEE), is characterized by an early onset of treatment-refractory seizures, together with impairments in motor control, behavior, and cognition. Even with multiple conventional anti-epileptic drugs, seizures remain poorly controlled, and there has been a considerable unmet need for effective and tolerable treatments. AREAS COVERED This targeted literature review aims to highlight recent changes to the therapeutic landscape for DS by summarizing the most up-to-date, evidence-based research, including pivotal data from the clinical development of stiripentol, cannabidiol, and fenfluramine, which are important milestones for DS treatment, together with the latest findings of other pharmacotherapies in development. In phase III, double-blind, placebo-controlled randomized controlled trials stiripentol, cannabidiol, and fenfluramine have shown clinically relevant reductions in convulsive seizure frequency, and are generally well tolerated. Stiripentol was associated with responder rates (greater than 50% reduction in convulsive seizure frequency) of 67%-71%, when added to valproic acid and clobazam; cannabidiol was associated with responder rates of 43%-49% (48%-63% in conjunction with clobazam), and fenfluramine of 54%-68% across studies. Therapies in development include soticlestat, ataluren, verapamil, and clemizole, with strategies to treat the underlying cause of DS, including gene therapy and antisense oligonucleotides beginning to emerge from preclinical studies. EXPERT OPINION Despite the challenges of drug development in rare diseases, this is an exciting time for the treatment of DS, with the promise of new efficacious and well-tolerated therapies, which may pave the way for treatment advances in other DEEs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Strzelczyk
- Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main, Center of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Goethe-University Frankfurt , Frankfurt am Main, Germany.,LOEWE Center for Personalized and Translational Epilepsy Research (CePTER), Goethe-University Frankfurt , Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Susanne Schubert-Bast
- Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main, Center of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Goethe-University Frankfurt , Frankfurt am Main, Germany.,LOEWE Center for Personalized and Translational Epilepsy Research (CePTER), Goethe-University Frankfurt , Frankfurt am Main, Germany.,Department of Neuropediatrics, Goethe-University Frankfurt , Frankfurt am Main, Germany
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21
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Abstract
Stiripentol (Diacomit®) is an orally-active, structurally unique anti-epileptic drug (AED) with multiple potential mechanisms of action, including enhancement of central γ-aminobutyric acid transmission. In the EU, stiripentol is indicated for use in conjunction with clobazam and valproate as adjunctive therapy of refractory generalized tonic-clonic seizures in patients with Dravet syndrome (DS; previously known as severe myoclonic epilepsy of infancy), whose seizures are not adequately controlled with clobazam and valproate. This approval (and similar DS indications in the USA, Canada and Japan), reflect the results of the STICLO studies, two small, randomized controlled trials in which stiripentol as adjunctive therapy was associated with a markedly superior response rate after 2 months compared with placebo in patients aged between 3 and ≈ 21 years with DS that was inadequately controlled with clobazam and valproate. These short-term results have subsequently been supported and extended by findings from longer-term, open-label, observational studies, including a retrospective longitudinal cohort study, which showed that the efficacy of combining stiripentol with clobazam and valproate when started at paediatric age was maintained in mid-adulthood with up to 24 years of exposure, and up to 40 years of age. Drowsiness, appetite loss, weight loss, ataxia and tremor are the most common adverse events associated with the addition of stiripentol to clobazam and valproate. Based on the available evidence, stiripentol, as an adjunct to clobazam and valproate, is a demonstrably beneficial and generally well-tolerated second-line treatment for patients with DS.
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Affiliation(s)
- James E Frampton
- Springer Nature, Private Bag 65901, Mairangi Bay, Auckland, 0754, New Zealand.
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22
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Willems LM, Bauer S, Rosenow F, Strzelczyk A. Recent advances in the pharmacotherapy of epilepsy: brivaracetam and perampanel as broad-spectrum antiseizure drugs for the treatment of epilepsies and status epilepticus. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2019; 20:1755-1765. [DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2019.1637420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Laurent Maximilian Willems
- Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main and Department of Neurology, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- LOEWE Center for Personalized Translational Epilepsy Research (CePTER), Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Sebastian Bauer
- Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main and Department of Neurology, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- LOEWE Center for Personalized Translational Epilepsy Research (CePTER), Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Felix Rosenow
- Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main and Department of Neurology, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- LOEWE Center for Personalized Translational Epilepsy Research (CePTER), Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Adam Strzelczyk
- Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main and Department of Neurology, 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 (Lahn), Germany
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