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Okazaki S, Kumagai T, Nishiuma S, Iwasaki K, Yamamoto K, Kokubo K, Hayashi H, Nakagawa E. Emergency management of pediatric epileptic seizures in non-hospital settings in Japan. Epilepsy Behav 2024; 158:109914. [PMID: 38970891 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2024.109914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2024] [Revised: 05/27/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/08/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the current management of pediatric epileptic seizures in non-hospital settings and the efficacy of early therapeutic intervention with rescue medication in Japan. METHODS This descriptive cross-sectional study was based on an online survey of caregivers of pediatric patients with epilepsy. The survey consisted of questions regarding seizure frequency and symptoms, the use of rescue medication, and emergency medical care. Statistical analyses were performed to evaluate the association between the time to rescue medication administration and seizure resolution. RESULTS Responses were obtained from 1147 caregivers of pediatric patients with epilepsy. Of the patients described in the study, 98.5 % had been prescribed anti-seizure medication, 95.3 % had more than a few seizures per year, and 90.3 % used rescue medication. The time to seizure resolution was significantly reduced when rescue medication was administered early. Overall, 28.4 % of the patients required emergency transport to hospital, which increased disruption to the lives of caregivers, who returned to their normal activities after an average of 17.2 h. CONCLUSION Emergency transport of patients places a significant burden on caregivers. Earlier administration of rescue medications is associated with a reduction in the need for emergency room visits, which reduces the burden on the patient as well as the caregiver.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shin Okazaki
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Osaka City General Hospital, Osaka, Japan.
| | | | | | | | | | - Kinya Kokubo
- Healthcare Consulting, Inc., Tokyo, Japan; Faculty of International Political Science and Economics, Nishogakusha University, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Eiji Nakagawa
- Department of Epileptology, National Center Hospital, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Tokyo, Japan
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Dittrich TD, Vock D, Fisch U, Hert L, Baumann SM, Kliem PSC, Rüegg S, Marsch S, De Marchis GM, Sutter R. Efficacy and Tolerability of Intranasal Midazolam Administration for Antiseizure Treatment in Adults: A Systematic Review. Neurocrit Care 2024:10.1007/s12028-024-01971-x. [PMID: 38580802 DOI: 10.1007/s12028-024-01971-x] [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: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to assess the efficacy and tolerability of intranasal midazolam (in-MDZ) administration for antiseizure treatment in adults. METHODS Embase and Medline literature databases were searched. We included randomized trials and cohort studies (excluding case series) of adult patients (≥ 18 years of age) examining in-MDZ administration for epilepsy, epileptic seizures, or status epilepticus published in English between 1985 and 2022. Studies were screened for eligibility based on predefined criteria. The primary outcome was the efficacy of in-MDZ administration, and the secondary outcome was its tolerability. Extracted data included study design, patient characteristics, intervention details, and outcomes. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool. RESULTS A total of 12 studies with 929 individuals treated with in-MDZ were included. Most studies were retrospective, with their number increasing over time. Administered in-MDZ doses ranged from 2.5 to 20 mg per single dose. The mean proportion of successful seizure termination after first in-MDZ administration was 72.7% (standard deviation [SD] 18%), and the proportion of seizure recurrence or persistent seizures ranged from 61 to 75%. Most frequent adverse reactions to in-MDZ were dizziness (mean 23.5% [SD 38.6%]), confusion (one study; 17.4%), local irritation (mean 16.6% [SD 9.6%]), and sedation (mean 12.7% [SD 9.7%]). CONCLUSIONS Administration of in-MDZ seems promising for the treatment of prolonged epileptic seizures and seizure clusters in adults. Limited evidence suggests that intranasal administration is safe. Further research is warranted because of the heterogeneity of cohorts, the variation in dosages, and the lack of uniformity in defining successful seizure termination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tolga D Dittrich
- Department of Neurology and Stroke Center, University Hospital Basel and University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Neurology and Stroke Center, Cantonal Hospital St. Gallen, St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Dominik Vock
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Intensive Care Unit, Department of Acute Medical Care, University Hospital Basel and University of Basel, Petersgraben 4, 4031, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Urs Fisch
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Intensive Care Unit, Department of Acute Medical Care, University Hospital Basel and University of Basel, Petersgraben 4, 4031, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Lisa Hert
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Intensive Care Unit, Department of Acute Medical Care, University Hospital Basel and University of Basel, Petersgraben 4, 4031, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Sira M Baumann
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Intensive Care Unit, Department of Acute Medical Care, University Hospital Basel and University of Basel, Petersgraben 4, 4031, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Paulina S C Kliem
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Intensive Care Unit, Department of Acute Medical Care, University Hospital Basel and University of Basel, Petersgraben 4, 4031, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Stephan Rüegg
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Intensive Care Unit, Department of Acute Medical Care, University Hospital Basel and University of Basel, Petersgraben 4, 4031, Basel, Switzerland
- Medical Faculty, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Stephan Marsch
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Intensive Care Unit, Department of Acute Medical Care, University Hospital Basel and University of Basel, Petersgraben 4, 4031, Basel, Switzerland
- Medical Faculty, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Gian Marco De Marchis
- Department of Neurology and Stroke Center, University Hospital Basel and University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Neurology and Stroke Center, Cantonal Hospital St. Gallen, St. Gallen, Switzerland
- Medical Faculty, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Raoul Sutter
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
- Intensive Care Unit, Department of Acute Medical Care, University Hospital Basel and University of Basel, Petersgraben 4, 4031, Basel, Switzerland.
- Medical Faculty, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
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Goldenholz DM, Karoly PJ, Viana PF, Nurse E, Loddenkemper T, Schulze-Bonhage A, Vieluf S, Bruno E, Nasseri M, Richardson MP, Brinkmann BH, Westover MB. Minimum clinical utility standards for wearable seizure detectors: A simulation study. Epilepsia 2024; 65:1017-1028. [PMID: 38366862 PMCID: PMC11018505 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Epilepsy management employs self-reported seizure diaries, despite evidence of seizure underreporting. Wearable and implantable seizure detection devices are now becoming more widely available. There are no clear guidelines about what levels of accuracy are sufficient. This study aimed to simulate clinical use cases and identify the necessary level of accuracy for each. METHODS Using a realistic seizure simulator (CHOCOLATES), a ground truth was produced, which was then sampled to generate signals from simulated seizure detectors of various capabilities. Five use cases were evaluated: (1) randomized clinical trials (RCTs), (2) medication adjustment in clinic, (3) injury prevention, (4) sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP) prevention, and (5) treatment of seizure clusters. We considered sensitivity (0%-100%), false alarm rate (FAR; 0-2/day), and device type (external wearable vs. implant) in each scenario. RESULTS The RCT case was efficient for a wide range of wearable parameters, though implantable devices were preferred. Lower accuracy wearables resulted in subtle changes in the distribution of patients enrolled in RCTs, and therefore higher sensitivity and lower FAR values were preferred. In the clinic case, a wide range of sensitivity, FAR, and device type yielded similar results. For injury prevention, SUDEP prevention, and seizure cluster treatment, each scenario required high sensitivity and yet was minimally influenced by FAR. SIGNIFICANCE The choice of use case is paramount in determining acceptable accuracy levels for a wearable seizure detection device. We offer simulation results for determining and verifying utility for specific use case and specific wearable parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel M Goldenholz
- Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Neurology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Philippa J Karoly
- Department of Neurology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Pedro F Viana
- School of Neuroscience, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Ewan Nurse
- Seer Medical, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Tobias Loddenkemper
- Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Andreas Schulze-Bonhage
- Epilepsy Center, University Medical Center Freiburg-University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Solveig Vieluf
- Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Elisa Bruno
- School of Neuroscience, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Mona Nasseri
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Mark P Richardson
- School of Neuroscience, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | | | - M Brandon Westover
- Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Neurology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- McCace Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Chang RSK, Wu RFY, Lo CNR, Li WTV, Wong JKT, Leung WCY, Tsaw M, Li RJ. Utilization and Acceptance of Rapid Epileptic Seizure Termination Therapies by Patients With Epilepsy and Caregivers in Hong Kong. Am J Ther 2024; 31:e197-e200. [PMID: 37233998 DOI: 10.1097/mjt.0000000000001601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Richard Shek-Kwan Chang
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Queen Mary Hospital, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Rachel F Y Wu
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy, University of Hong Kong
| | - Cheuk Nam Rachel Lo
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Queen Mary Hospital, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Wai Tak Victor Li
- Department of Medicine, Queen Mary Hospital, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Janet K T Wong
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy, University of Hong Kong
| | - William C Y Leung
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Queen Mary Hospital, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Meagan Tsaw
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Queen Mary Hospital, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Ricardo Jiatu Li
- Department of Medicine, Queen Mary Hospital, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR
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Chmielewska N, Szyndler J. Intranasal administration of antiseizure medications in chronic and emergency treatment: Hopes and challenges. Seizure 2024; 115:62-67. [PMID: 38184900 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2024.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Despite the availability of many antiseizure medications (ASMs), 30 % of patients experience pharmacoresistant seizures. High-throughput screening methods undoubtedly remain one of the most important approaches for discovering new molecules to treat seizures. However, the costly and time-consuming nature of drug development prompts us to explore alternative strategies to counteract drug-resistant seizures. One such approach is to consider intranasal administration of known molecules for seizure treatment. In the case of treating epileptic seizures, administering ASMs intranasally may enhance treatment effectiveness and minimize adverse effects. A good example of changes in drug administration is the intranasal administration of fentanyl, which has become a clinical standard in the emergency setting to treat moderate to severe pain in adults and children. This review discusses the utilization of intranasally administered ASMs for both acute and chronic seizures. It addresses various targeted pharmacokinetic approaches, challenges and prospects associated with these regimens. Brief neuroanatomical and molecular rationale for nose-to-brain drug transport is also presented. Furthermore, recent preclinical studies validating the efficacy and brain distribution following intranasal administration of the most commonly used drugs in chronic treatment are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Chmielewska
- Department of Neurochemistry, Institute of Psychiatry and Neurology, Sobieskiego 9 Street, Warsaw 02-957, Poland.
| | - Janusz Szyndler
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Centre for Preclinical Research and Technology CePT, Medical University of Warsaw, Banacha 1B Street, Warsaw 02- 097, Poland
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Privitera MD, Mendoza LC, Carrazana E, Rabinowicz AL. Intracerebral electrographic activity following a single dose of diazepam nasal spray: A pilot study. Epilepsia Open 2024; 9:380-387. [PMID: 38131286 PMCID: PMC10839290 DOI: 10.1002/epi4.12890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Rescue benzodiazepine medication can be used to treat seizure clusters, which are intermittent, stereotypic episodes of frequent seizure activity that are distinct from a patient's usual seizure pattern. The NeuroPace RNS® System is a device that detects abnormal electrographic activity through intracranial electrodes and administers electrical stimulation to control seizures. Reductions in electrographic activity over days to weeks have been associated with the longer-term efficacy of daily antiseizure medications (ASMs). In this pilot study, electrographic activity over hours to days was examined to assess the impact of a single dose of a proven rescue therapy (diazepam nasal spray) with a rapid onset of action. METHODS Adult volunteers (>18 years old) with clinically indicated RNS (stable settings and ASM usage) received a weight-based dose of diazepam nasal spray in the absence of a clinical seizure. Descriptive statistics for a number of detections and a sum of durations of detections at 10-min, hourly, and 24-h intervals during the 7-day (predose) baseline period were calculated. Post-dose detections at each time interval were compared with the respective baseline-detection intervals using a 1 SD threshold. The number of long episodes that occurred after dosing also were compared with the baseline. RESULTS Five participants were enrolled, and four completed the study; the excluded participant had recurrent seizures during the study. There were no consistent changes (difference >1 SD) in detections between post-dose and mean baseline values. Although variability was high (1 SD was often near or exceeded the mean), three participants showed possible trends for reductions in one or more electrographic variables following treatment. SIGNIFICANCE RNS-assessed electrographic detections and durations were not shown to be sensitive measures of short-term effects associated with a single dose of rescue medication in this small group of participants. The variability of detections may have masked a measurable drug effect. PLAIN LANGUAGE SUMMARY Rescue drugs are used to treat seizure clusters. Responsive neurostimulation (RNS) devices detect and record epilepsy brain waves and then send a pulse to help stop seizures. This pilot study looked at whether one dose of a rescue treatment changes brain activity detected by RNS. There was a very wide range of detections, which made it difficult to see if or how the drug changed brain activity. New studies should look at other types of brain activity, multiple doses, and larger patient groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael D. Privitera
- Department of NeurologyUniversity of Cincinnati College of MedicineCincinnatiOhioUSA
| | - Lucy C. Mendoza
- Department of NeurologyUniversity of Cincinnati College of MedicineCincinnatiOhioUSA
| | - Enrique Carrazana
- Neurelis, Inc.San DiegoCaliforniaUSA
- John A. Burns School of MedicineUniversity of HawaiiHonoluluHawaiiUSA
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Penovich PE, Rao VR, Long L, Carrazana E, Rabinowicz AL. Benzodiazepines for the Treatment of Seizure Clusters. CNS Drugs 2024; 38:125-140. [PMID: 38358613 PMCID: PMC10881644 DOI: 10.1007/s40263-023-01060-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
Patients with epilepsy may experience seizure clusters, which are described by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as intermittent, stereotypic episodes of frequent seizure activity that are distinct from a patient's usual seizure pattern. Untreated seizure clusters may increase the risk for status epilepticus, as well as decrease quality of life and increase burden on patients and care partners. Benzodiazepine therapies are the mainstay for acute treatment of seizure clusters and are often administered by nonmedical care partners outside a healthcare facility. Three rescue therapies are currently FDA-approved for this indication, with diazepam rectal gel being the first in 1997, for patients aged ≥ 2 years. Limitations of rectal administration (e.g., positioning and disrobing the patient, which may affect ease of use and social acceptability; interpatient variation in bioavailability) led to the investigation of the potential for nasal administration as an alternative. Midazolam nasal spray (MDS) was approved by the FDA in 2019 for patients aged ≥ 12 years and diazepam nasal spray (DNS) in 2020 for patients aged ≥ 6 years; these two intranasal therapies have differences in their formulations [e.g., organic solvents (MDS) vs. Intravail and vitamin E for absorption and solubility (DNS)], effectiveness (e.g., proportion of seizure clusters requiring only one dose), and safety profiles. In clinical studies, the proportion of seizure clusters for which only one dose of medication was used varied between the three approved rescue therapies with the highest single-dose rate for any time period for DNS; however, although studies for all three preparations enrolled patients with highly intractable epilepsy, inclusion and exclusion criteria varied, so the three cannot be directly compared. Treatments that have been used off-label for seizure clusters in the USA include midazolam for injection as an intranasal spray (indicated for sedation/anxiolysis/amnesia and anesthesia) and tablet forms of clonazepam (indicated for treatment for seizure disorders) and lorazepam (indicated for anxiety). In the European Union, buccal and intranasal midazolam are used for treating the indication of prolonged, acute convulsive seizures and rectal diazepam solution for the indication of epileptic and febrile convulsions; duration of effectiveness for these medications for the treatment of seizure clusters has not been established. This paper examines the literature context for understanding seizure clusters and their treatment and provides effectiveness, safety, and administration details for the three FDA-approved rescue therapies. Additionally, other medications that are used for rescue therapy in the USA and globally are discussed. Finally, the potential benefits of seizure action plans and candidates for their use are addressed. This paper is intended to provide details about the unique characteristics of rescue therapies for seizure clusters to help clarify appropriate treatment for individual patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Vikram R Rao
- University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Lucretia Long
- Wexner Medical Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Enrique Carrazana
- Neurelis, Inc., San Diego, CA, USA
- John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, HI, USA
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Gidal B, Welty T, Cokley J, Farrell M, Shafer P, Rabinowicz AL, Carrazana E. Opportunities for Community Pharmacists to Counsel Patients With Epilepsy and Seizure Clusters to Overcome Barriers and Foster Appropriate Treatment. J Pharm Pract 2024; 37:190-197. [PMID: 36193947 PMCID: PMC10804691 DOI: 10.1177/08971900221126570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Some patients with epilepsy experience seizure clusters, which may be defined as 2 or more seizures occurring within 24 hours. Left untreated, seizure clusters increase the risk for physical injury and may progress to status epilepticus, irreversible neurologic injury, and death. Rescue therapy is based on benzodiazepine treatment. Prompt, appropriate use should be specified in patients' individualized seizure action plans. Most seizure clusters occur outside the hospital setting. The ideal rescue therapy allows for easy and quick administration by a nonmedical person, which may minimize the need for intervention by emergency medical personnel or transportation to the hospital. In the 2 decades before the approval of 2 intranasal benzodiazepines in 2019 and 2020, rectal diazepam was the only route of administration approved by the US Food and Drug Administration specifically for seizure clusters. Each of the approved intranasal formulations has a unique profile. Both offer a convenient and socially acceptable route of administration. Recognition of seizure clusters and timing of proper administration are key to successful use of rescue therapy. Pharmacists' counseling plays an important role in reinforcing when and how to appropriately administer rescue therapies and the importance of consistently using rescue treatment when indicated to promote effective management. This review includes resources for pharmacists, patients, and caregivers; reviews currently available treatments; and discusses seizure action plans that support effective treatment of seizure clusters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barry Gidal
- University of Wisconsin School of Pharmacy, Madison, WI, USA
| | | | - Jon Cokley
- Texas Children’s Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
- Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | | | | | | | - Enrique Carrazana
- Neurelis, Inc., San Diego, CA, USA
- John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, HI, USA
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Wheless JW, Gidal B, Rabinowicz AL, Carrazana E. Practical Questions About Rescue Medications for Acute Treatment of Seizure Clusters in Children and Adolescents with Epilepsy in the USA: Expanding Treatment Options to Address Unmet Needs. Paediatr Drugs 2024; 26:49-57. [PMID: 37902940 PMCID: PMC10769986 DOI: 10.1007/s40272-023-00601-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/01/2023]
Abstract
Epilepsy is a common pediatric neurological condition, affecting approximately 470,000 children in the USA and having a prevalence of 0.9% in the global population of approximately 2.6 billion children. Epilepsy is associated with disruptions in several areas of a child's life, including medical burden, quality of life, cognitive outcomes, and higher risk of mortality. Additionally, some pediatric patients may experience acute seizure emergencies such as seizure clusters (also called acute repetitive seizures), which are intermittent increases in seizure activity that differ from the patient's usual seizure pattern and may occur despite daily antiseizure drug administration. Seizure clusters increase a patient's risk for status epilepticus and emergency room visits. Benzodiazepines are the main category of drugs used as acute seizure therapies for seizure clusters. This narrative review provides a practical discussion of care for pediatric patients with epilepsy and seizure clusters exploring such topics as details about the US Food and Drug Administration-approved acute seizure therapies, safety and ease of use of these medications, benefits of seizure action plans to help ensure optimal treatment, and considerations for transitioning a pediatric patient with acute seizure therapy to adult healthcare management.
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Affiliation(s)
- James W Wheless
- Le Bonheur Children's Hospital, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, 38105, USA.
| | - Barry Gidal
- School of Pharmacy, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | | | - Enrique Carrazana
- John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, HI, USA
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10
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Godse S, Zhou L, Sakshi S, Singla B, Singh UP, Kumar S. Nanocarrier-mediated curcumin delivery: An adjuvant strategy for CNS disease treatment. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2023; 248:2151-2166. [PMID: 38058006 PMCID: PMC10800127 DOI: 10.1177/15353702231211863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurological disorders are a major global challenge, which counts for a substantial slice of disease burden around the globe. In these, the challenging landscape of central nervous system (CNS) diseases, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, and neuro-AIDS, demands innovative and novel therapeutic approaches. Curcumin, a versatile natural compound with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, shows great potential as a CNS adjuvant therapy. However, its limited bioavailability and suboptimal permeability to the blood-brain barrier (BBB) hamper the therapeutic efficacy of curcumin. This review explores how nanocarrier facilitates curcumin delivery, which has shown therapeutic efficacy for various non-CNS diseases, for example, cancers, and can also revolutionize the treatment outcomes in patients with CNS diseases. Toward this, intranasal administration of curcumin as a non-invasive CNS drug delivery route can also aid its therapeutic outcomes as an adjuvant therapy for CNS diseases. Intranasal delivery of nanocarriers with curcumin improves the bioavailability of curcumin and its BBB permeability, which is instrumental in promoting its therapeutic potential. Furthermore, curcumin's inhibitory effect on efflux transporters will help to enhance the BBB and cellular permeability of various CNS drugs. The therapeutic potential of curcumin as an adjuvant has the potential to yield synergistic effects with CNS drugs and will help to reduce CNS drug doses and improve their safety profile. Taken together, this approach holds a promise for reshaping CNS disease management by maximizing curcumin's and other drugs' therapeutic benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandip Godse
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN 38163, USA
| | - Lina Zhou
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN 38163, USA
| | - Swarna Sakshi
- Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine, Dothan, AL 36303, USA
| | - Bhupesh Singla
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN 38163, USA
| | - Udai P Singh
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN 38163, USA
| | - Santosh Kumar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN 38163, USA
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Becker DA, Wheless JW, Sirven J, Tatum WO, Rabinowicz AL, Carrazana E. Treatment of Seizure Clusters in Epilepsy: A Narrative Review on Rescue Therapies. Neurol Ther 2023; 12:1439-1455. [PMID: 37341903 PMCID: PMC10444935 DOI: 10.1007/s40120-023-00515-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Epilepsy is a common neurological disorder in the United States, affecting approximately 1.2% of the population. Some people with epilepsy may experience seizure clusters, which are acute repetitive seizures that differ from the person's usual seizure pattern. Seizure clusters are unpredictable, are emotionally burdensome to patients and caregivers (including care partners), and require prompt treatment to prevent progression to serious outcomes, including status epilepticus and associated morbidity (e.g., lacerations, fractures due to falls) and mortality. Rescue medications for community use can be administered to terminate a seizure cluster, and benzodiazepines are the cornerstone of rescue treatment. Despite the effectiveness of benzodiazepines and the importance of a rapid treatment approach, as many as 80% of adult patients do not use rescue medication to treat seizure clusters. This narrative review provides an update on rescue medications used for treatment of seizure clusters, with an emphasis on clinical development and study programs for diazepam rectal gel, midazolam nasal spray, and diazepam nasal spray. Results from long-term clinical trials have shown that treatments for seizure clusters are effective. Intranasal benzodiazepines provide ease of use and patient and caregiver satisfaction in pediatric and adult patients. Adverse events attributed to acute rescue treatments have been characterized as mild to moderate, and no reports of respiratory depression have been attributed to treatment in long-term safety studies. The implementation of an acute seizure action plan to facilitate optimal use of rescue medications provides an opportunity for improved management of seizure clusters, allowing those affected to resume normal daily activities more quickly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle A Becker
- Department of Neurology, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA.
| | - James W Wheless
- Le Bonheur Children's Hospital, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Joseph Sirven
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | | | | | - Enrique Carrazana
- Neurelis, Inc., San Diego, CA, USA
- John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, HI, USA
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Tatum WO, Glauser T, Peters JM, Verma A, Weatherspoon S, Benbadis S, Becker DA, Puri V, Smith M, Misra SN, Rabinowicz AL, Carrazana E. Acute seizure therapies in people with epilepsy: Fact or fiction? A U.S. Perspective. Epilepsy Behav Rep 2023; 23:100612. [PMID: 37520180 PMCID: PMC10372156 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebr.2023.100612] [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: 02/17/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Patients with epilepsy (PWE) may experience seizure emergencies including acute repetitive seizures despite chronic treatment with daily antiseizure medications. Seizures may adversely impact routine daily activities and/or healthcare utilization and may impair the quality of life of patients with epilepsy and their caregivers. Seizures often occur at home, school, or work in a community setting. Appropriate treatment that is readily accessible for patients with seizure urgencies and emergencies is essential outside the hospital setting. When determining the best acute antiseizure therapy for PWE, clinicians need to consider all of the available rescue medications and their routes of administration including the safety and efficacy profiles. Benzodiazepines are a standard of care as a rescue therapy, yet there are several misconceptions about their use and safety. Reevaluating potential misconceptions and formulating best practices are necessary to maximize usage for each available option of acute therapy. We examine common beliefs associated with traditional use of acute seizure therapies to refute or support them based on the current level of evidence in the published literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- William O. Tatum
- Mayo Clinic, 4500 San Pablo Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32224-1865, USA
| | - Tracy Glauser
- Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, 3333 Burnet Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Jurriaan M. Peters
- Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 300 Longwood Ave, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Amit Verma
- Stanley H. Appel Department of Neurology, Houston Methodist Hospital, 6560 Fannin St., Ste 802, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Sarah Weatherspoon
- Le Bonheur Children's Hospital, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, 848 Adams Ave., Memphis, TN 38103, USA
| | - Selim Benbadis
- Comprehensive Epilepsy Program, University of South Florida & Tampa General Hospital, 2 Tampa General Cir., Tampa, FL 33606, USA
| | - Danielle A. Becker
- Department of Neurology, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, 10900 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Vinay Puri
- Norton Children’s Neuroscience Institute, affiliated with University of Louisville, 411 E. Chestnut St., Suite 645, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
| | - Michael Smith
- Department of Neurology, Rush University, 1725 W. Harrison St., Ste 885, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Sunita N. Misra
- Neurelis Inc., 3430 Carmel Mountain Rd., Ste 300, San Diego, CA 92121, USA
| | | | - Enrique Carrazana
- Neurelis Inc., 3430 Carmel Mountain Rd., Ste 300, San Diego, CA 92121, USA
- John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, 651 Ilalo St., Honolulu, HI 96813, USA
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Lelis IR, Krauss GL. Sublingual lorazepam as rescue therapy for seizure emergencies in adults. Epilepsy Behav 2023; 145:109294. [PMID: 37406555 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2023.109294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 05/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Limited acute home treatments are available for patients with prolonged (>5 minutes) or repetitive (≥2 in 24 hours) seizures. While this early seizure treatment may reduce the need for emergency care, intermittent intranasal benzodiazepine formulations are expensive and rectal diazepam administration is often socially unacceptable. We determined whether caregivers could use sublingual lorazepam oral concentrate solution effectively as acute treatment for adults with prolonged and repetitive seizures. METHODS Patients prescribed sublingual lorazepam solution at the Johns Hopkins Epilepsy Center for acute seizure treatment during a 5-year period (2012-2017) were screened. We determined clinical history of seizure patterns and number of antiseizure medications (ASMs) through patient and caregiver surveys, and we verified this history in patients' medical records and charts. During a 2-year span (2017-2018), patients and caregivers were surveyed on responses to their most recent use of sublingual lorazepam solution, including seizure cessation (prolonged seizure stopping <5 minutes or ≤1 repetitive seizure), presence of sedation and adverse events within 24 hours of administration, and whether refrigeration limited use. RESULTS In total, 52 patients used sublingual lorazepam for treatment of acute seizures during the study period (median dose 1 mg, range 0.5 to 2 mg). Of them, 48 patients participated in treatment survey interviews. Family caregivers usually administered lorazepam (88%); 3 self-administered. Patients were surveyed on responses to their most recent use of sublingual lorazepam treatment: 66% (23/35) of patients with repetitive seizures reported no further seizure activity after administering treatment; 70% (7/10) with prolonged seizures reported seizure activity ceased within 5 minutes of treatment. Three patients treated auras and had no seizures. There were no serious adverse events during most recent use: 31% of patients developed moderate/severe sedation. Of note, 98% refrigerated lorazepam, often with coolers; 44%, however, said this limited treatment access. There was high treatment satisfaction; 79% reported that having the emergency treatment available made them feel safer. SIGNIFICANCE This patient survey and retrospective chart review demonstrates that home treatment with sublingual lorazepam solution may be effective for interrupting prolonged and repetitive seizures. No patients had sedation complications with home doses of 0.5 to 2 mg, and patients report high satisfaction with the treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabella R Lelis
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Gregory L Krauss
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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Ramsay RE, Becker D, Vazquez B, Birnbaum AK, Misra SN, Carrazana E, Rabinowicz AL. Acute Abortive Therapies for Seizure Clusters in Long-Term Care. J Am Med Dir Assoc 2023:S1525-8610(23)00405-X. [PMID: 37253432 DOI: 10.1016/j.jamda.2023.04.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Revised: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To describe acute seizure treatment for the long-term care setting, emphasizing rescue (acute abortive) medications for on-site management of acute unexpected seizures and seizure clusters. DESIGN Narrative review. SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS People with seizures in long-term care, including group residences. METHODS PubMed was searched using keywords that pertained to rescue medications, seizure emergencies/epilepsy, seizure action plans, and long-term care. RESULTS Seizure disorder, including epilepsy, is prevalent in long-term care residences, and rescue medications can be used for on-site treatment. Diazepam rectal gel, intranasal midazolam, and diazepam nasal spray are US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved seizure-cluster rescue medications, and intravenous diazepam and lorazepam are approved for status epilepticus. Benzodiazepines differ by formulation, route of administration, absorption, and metabolism. Intranasal formulations are easy and ideal for public use and when rectal treatment is challenging (eg, wheelchair). Intranasal, intrabuccal, and rectal formulations do not require specialized training to administer and are easier for staff at all levels of training compared with intravenous treatment. Off-label rescue medications may have anecdotal support; however, potential disadvantages include variable absorption and onset of action as well as potential risks to patients and caregivers/care partners. Delivery of intravenous-administered rescue medications is delayed by the time needed to set up and deliver the medication and is subject to dosing errors. Seizure action plans that include management of acute seizures can optimize the quality and timing of treatment, which may reduce emergency service needs and prevent progression to status epilepticus. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Seizure disorder is prevalent across all ages but is increased in older adults and in those with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Prompt intervention may reduce negative outcomes associated with acute unexpected seizures and seizure clusters. Seizure action plans that include acute seizures can improve the treatment response by detailing the necessary information for staff to provide immediate treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Eugene Ramsay
- International Center for Epilepsy, St. Bernard Parish Medical Center, New Orleans, LA, USA.
| | - Danielle Becker
- Department of Neurology, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Blanca Vazquez
- Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, New York University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Angela K Birnbaum
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | | | - Enrique Carrazana
- Neurelis, Inc, San Diego, CA, USA; John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, HI, USA
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15
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Leviton A, Patel AD, Loddenkemper T. Self-management education for children with epilepsy and their caregivers. A scoping review. Epilepsy Behav 2023; 144:109232. [PMID: 37196451 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2023.109232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Revised: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Self-management education programs have been highly successful in preparing people to manage medical conditions with recurring events. A detailed curriculum for epilepsy patients, and their caretakers, is lacking. Here we assess what is available for patients who have disorders with recurring events and offer an approach to developing a potential self-care curriculum for patients with seizures and their caregivers. Among the anticipated components are a baseline efficacy assessment and training tailored to increasing self-efficacy, medication compliance, and stress management. Those at risk of status epilepticus will also need guidance in preparing a personalized seizure action plan and training in how to decide when rescue medication is appropriate and how to administer the therapy. Peers, as well as professionals, could teach and provide support. To our knowledge, no such programs are currently available in English. We encourage their creation, dissemination, and widespread use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan Leviton
- Boston Children's Hospital, 300 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
| | - Anup D Patel
- Nationwide Children's Hospital, 700 Childrens Drive, Columbus, OH 43205, USA.
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16
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Morgan LA, Hrachovec JB, Goodkin HP. Pediatric Status Epilepticus: Treat Early and Avoid Delays. Paediatr Drugs 2023:10.1007/s40272-023-00570-1. [PMID: 37178271 DOI: 10.1007/s40272-023-00570-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Pediatric convulsive status epilepticus (cSE) is a neurologic emergency with potential for morbidity and mortality. Rapid treatment and escalation of therapies to achieve early seizure control is paramount in preventing complications and providing the best patient outcomes. Although guidelines recommend early treatment, cessation of out-of-hospital SE is undermined by treatment delay and inadequate dosing. Logistical challenges include prompt seizure recognition, first-line benzodiazepine (BZD) availability, comfort and expertise in administration of BZD, and timely arrival of emergency personnel. In-hospital, SE onset is additionally impacted by delays to first- and second-line treatment and availability of resources. This review presents an evidence-based, clinically oriented review of pediatric cSE, including its definitions and treatments. It provides evidence and rationale for timely treatment of first-line BZD treatment followed by prompt escalation to second-line antiseizure medication therapies for established SE. Treatment delays and barriers to care are discussed, with practical considerations for opportunities for areas of improvement in the initial treatment of cSE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsey A Morgan
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Neurology, University of Washington, 4800 Sand Point Way NE, Neurology, MB.7.420, Seattle, WA, 98105, USA.
- Center for Integrative Brain Research, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA, USA.
| | - Jennifer B Hrachovec
- Quality and Clinical Effectiveness, Center for Quality and Patient Safety, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Howard P Goodkin
- Departments of Neurology and Pediatrics, University of Virginia Health System, Charlottesville, VA, USA
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17
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O'Hara K, Dewar S, Bougher G, Dean P, Misra SN, Desai J. Overcoming barriers to the management of seizure clusters: ease of use and time to administration of rescue medications. Expert Rev Neurother 2023; 23:425-432. [PMID: 37126472 DOI: 10.1080/14737175.2023.2206568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Patients with epilepsy can experience seizure clusters (acute repetitive seizures), defined as intermittent, stereotypic episodes of frequent seizure activity that are distinct from typical seizure patterns. There are three FDA-approved rescue medications, diazepam rectal gel, midazolam nasal spray, and diazepam nasal spray, that can be administered to abort a seizure cluster in a nonmedical, community setting. Despite their effectiveness and safety, rescue medications are underutilized, and patient/caregiver experiences and perceptions of ease of use may constitute a substantial barrier to greater utilization. AREAS COVERED The literature on rescue medications for seizure clusters is reviewed, including the effectiveness and safety, with an emphasis on ease and timing of treatment and associated outcomes. Barriers to greater utilization of rescue medication and the role of seizure action plans are discussed. EXPERT OPINION Intranasal rescue medications are easier to use and can be administered more rapidly than other routes (rectal, intravenous). Importantly, rapid administration of intranasal rescue medications has been associated with shorter durations of seizure activity as compared with rectal/intravenous routes. Intranasal rescue medications are also easy to use and socially acceptable. These factors potentially remove or reduce barriers to use and optimize the management of seizure clusters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn O'Hara
- Department of Neurology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Sandra Dewar
- Department of Neurology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Genei Bougher
- Northwest Florida Clinical Research Group, LLC, Gulf Breeze, FL, USA
- Child Neurology Center of Northwest Florida, Gulf Breeze, FL, USA
| | - Patricia Dean
- Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Nicklaus Children's Hospital, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Sunita N Misra
- Clinical Development & Medical Affairs, Neurelis, Inc, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Jay Desai
- Division of Neurology, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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18
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Tarquinio D, Wheless JW, Segal EB, Misra SN, Rabinowicz AL, Carrazana E. Safety of Diazepam Nasal Spray in Pediatric Patients With Developmental Epileptic Encephalopathies: Results From a Long-term Phase 3 Safety Study. J Child Neurol 2023; 38:389-393. [PMID: 37455404 PMCID: PMC10466939 DOI: 10.1177/08830738231185424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2023] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Pediatric developmental epileptic encephalopathies are often refractory to treatment despite stable antiseizure therapy. The safety profile of diazepam nasal spray (Valtoco) as rescue therapy for seizure clusters was described in a long-term safety study. This post hoc analysis assessed safety and effectiveness within a subpopulation of patients with developmental epileptic encephalopathies. Of 163 treated patients, 64 were diagnosed with ≥1 pediatric developmental epileptic encephalopathy. Among the most common developmental epileptic encephalopathies were Rett syndrome (n = 16), Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (n = 9), and Dravet syndrome (n = 7). In the broad pediatric developmental epileptic encephalopathy group, 10.6% of seizure clusters were treated with a second dose, with similar proportions in the 3 individual encephalopathies. Across groups, treatment-emergent adverse event rates ranged from 66.7% to 100%. Only epistaxis (n = 2) was treatment-related and reported in >1 patient. In this long-term safety analysis in patients with developmental epileptic encephalopathies, diazepam nasal spray demonstrated a consistent safety profile, supporting its use in these hard-to-treat patients (ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02721069).
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Affiliation(s)
| | - James W. Wheless
- Le Bonheur Children's Hospital, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Eric B. Segal
- Hackensack University Medical Center and Northeast Regional Epilepsy Group, Hackensack, NJ, USA
| | | | | | - Enrique Carrazana
- Neurelis, Inc., San Diego, CA, USA
- John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, HI, USA
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19
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Orlandi N, d'Orsi G, Pauletto G, Nilo A, Sicurella L, Pescini F, Giglia F, Labate A, Laganà A, Renna R, Cavalli SM, Zummo L, Coletti Moja M, Vollono C, Sabetta A, Ranzato F, Zappulla S, Audenino D, Miniello S, Nazerian P, Marino D, Lattanzi S, Piccioli M, Estraneo A, Zini A, Servo S, Giovannini G, Meletti S, Bianchini D, Contardi S, Fasolino A, Fiore GM, Foschi N, Giordano A, Laisa P, Lo Coco D, Maccora S, Magaudda A, Panebianco M, Merli E, Piccirillo G, Pugnaghi M, Ramacciotti L, Vaudano AE, Vitale G, Zaniboni A. A retrospective multicentric study on the effectiveness of intravenous brivaracetam in seizure clusters: Data from the Italian experience. Seizure 2023; 108:72-80. [PMID: 37104972 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2023.04.015] [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: 02/09/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Nearly half of people with epilepsy (PWE) are expected to develop seizure clusters (SC), with the subsequent risk of hospitalization. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the use, effectiveness and safety of intravenous (IV) brivaracetam (BRV) in the treatment of SC. METHODS Retrospective multicentric study of patients with SC (≥ 2 seizures/24 h) who received IV BRV. Data collection occurred from January 2019 to April 2022 in 25 Italian neurology units. Primary efficacy outcome was seizure freedom up to 24 h from BRV administration. We also evaluated the risk of evolution into Status Epilepticus (SE) at 6, 12 and 24 h after treatment initiation. A Cox regression model was used to identify outcome predictors. RESULTS 97 patients were included (mean age 62 years), 74 (76%) of whom had a history of epilepsy (with drug resistant seizures in 49% of cases). BRV was administered as first line treatment in 16% of the episodes, while it was used as first or second drug after benzodiazepines failure in 49% and 35% of episodes, respectively. On the one hand, 58% patients were seizure free at 24 h after BRV administration and no other rescue medications were used in 75 out of 97 cases (77%) On the other hand, SC evolved into SE in 17% of cases. A higher probability of seizure relapse and/or evolution into SE was observed in patients without a prior history of epilepsy (HR 2.0; 95% CI 1.03 - 4.1) and in case of BRV administration as second/third line drug (HR 3.2; 95% CI 1.1 - 9.7). No severe treatment emergent adverse events were observed. SIGNIFICANCE In our cohort, IV BRV resulted to be well tolerated for the treatment of SC and it could be considered as a treatment option, particularly in case of in-hospital onset. However, the underlying etiology seems to be the main outcome predictor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niccolò Orlandi
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Center for Neuroscience and Neurotechnology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy; Neurology department, OCB Hospital, AOU Modena, Italy
| | - Giuseppe d'Orsi
- Neurology Unit, IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, San Giovanni Rotondo (Foggia), Italy
| | - Giada Pauletto
- Neurology Unit, Department of Neurosciences, Santa Maria della Misericordia University Hospital, ASUFC, Udine, Italy
| | - Annacarmen Nilo
- Clinical Neurology Unit, Department of Neurosciences, Santa Maria della Misericordia University Hospital, ASUFC, Udine, Italy
| | | | | | - Francesca Giglia
- Neurology Division with Stroke Unit, "San Giovanni di Dio" Hospital, Agrigento
| | - Angelo Labate
- Neurophysiopatology and Movement Disorders Clinic, Regional Epilepsy Centre, University of Messina, Italy
| | - Angelina Laganà
- Neurophysiopatology and Movement Disorders Clinic, Regional Epilepsy Centre, University of Messina, Italy
| | - Rosaria Renna
- Neurological Clinic and Stroke Unit - "A. Cardarelli" Hospital, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Leila Zummo
- Neurology and Stroke Unit, P.O. ARNAS-Civico, Palermo, Italy
| | | | - Catello Vollono
- Department of Geriatrics, Neurosciences and Orthopedics, Unit of Neurophysiopatology, IRCSS Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli Catholic University, Rome, Italy
| | - Annarita Sabetta
- Epilepsy Centre - S.C. Neurologia Universitaria, Policlinico Riuniti, Foggia, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Stefania Miniello
- Neurology and Stroke Unit, AORN "Sant'Anna E San Sebastiano", Caserta, Italy
| | - Peiman Nazerian
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Daniela Marino
- Epilepsy Center, Neurology Unit, Department of Cardio-neuro-vascular Sciences, San Donato Hospital, Arezzo, Italy
| | - Simona Lattanzi
- Neurological Clinic, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Marche Polytechnic University, Ancona, Italy
| | | | - Anna Estraneo
- Neurology Unit and Stroke Unit, Santa Maria della Pietà Hospital, Nola, Italy
| | - Andrea Zini
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Department of Neurology and Stroke Center, Maggiore Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Serena Servo
- Neurology Unit, Santa Croce Hospital, Cuneo, Italy
| | | | - Stefano Meletti
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Center for Neuroscience and Neurotechnology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy; Neurology department, OCB Hospital, AOU Modena, Italy.
| | | | - Sara Contardi
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Department of Neurology and Stroke Center, Maggiore Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Alessandra Fasolino
- Neurological Clinic and Stroke Unit - "A. Cardarelli" Hospital, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Nicoletta Foschi
- Neurological Clinic, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Marche Polytechnic University, Ancona, Italy
| | | | | | - Daniele Lo Coco
- Azienda Ospedaliera Ospedali Riuniti Villa Sofia-Cervello, Palermo, Italy
| | - Simona Maccora
- Neurology and Stroke Unit, P.O. ARNAS-Civico, Palermo, Italy
| | - Adriana Magaudda
- Epilepsy Center, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Italy
| | | | - Elena Merli
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Department of Neurology and Stroke Center, Maggiore Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Giovanni Piccirillo
- Neurology and Stroke Unit, AORN "Sant'Anna E San Sebastiano", Caserta, Italy
| | | | | | - Anna Elisabetta Vaudano
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Center for Neuroscience and Neurotechnology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy; Neurology department, OCB Hospital, AOU Modena, Italy
| | | | - Anna Zaniboni
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Department of Neurology and Stroke Center, Maggiore Hospital, Bologna, Italy
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Krauss GL, Elizebath R, Mwendaweli N. Seizure Rescue Therapies: Comparing Approved and Commonly Used Benzodiazepine Formulations. Neurotherapeutics 2023; 20:758-766. [PMID: 36928590 PMCID: PMC10275833 DOI: 10.1007/s13311-023-01359-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute seizure therapies given out of the hospital are important for interrupting acute repetitive and prolonged seizures and preventing hospitalization. These vary in their administration routes, indications for children and adults, pharmacologic profiles, and efficacy. We reviewed and compared the uses of current formulations available to treat acute seizures, including newly released intranasal (IN) benzodiazepines and older formulations which are widely used for interrupting seizures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory L Krauss
- School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Reena Elizebath
- School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Naluca Mwendaweli
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia
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21
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Rescue Medications for Acute Repetitive Seizures. Curr Treat Options Neurol 2023. [DOI: 10.1007/s11940-023-00746-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/07/2023]
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Intranasal Polymeric and Lipid-Based Nanocarriers for CNS Drug Delivery. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15030746. [PMID: 36986607 PMCID: PMC10051709 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15030746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2023] [Revised: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Nanomedicine is currently focused on the design and development of nanocarriers that enhance drug delivery to the brain to address unmet clinical needs for treating neuropsychiatric disorders and neurological diseases. Polymer and lipid-based drug carriers are advantageous for delivery to the central nervous system (CNS) due to their safety profiles, drug-loading capacity, and controlled-release properties. Polymer and lipid-based nanoparticles (NPs) are reported to penetrate the blood–brain barrier (BBB) and have been extensively assessed in in vitro and animal models of glioblastoma, epilepsy, and neurodegenerative disease. Since approval by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) of intranasal esketamine for treatment of major depressive disorder, intranasal administration has emerged as an attractive route to bypass the BBB for drug delivery to the CNS. NPs can be specifically designed for intranasal administration by tailoring their size and coating with mucoadhesive agents or other moieties that promote transport across the nasal mucosa. In this review, unique characteristics of polymeric and lipid-based nanocarriers desirable for drug delivery to the brain are explored in addition to their potential for drug repurposing for the treatment of CNS disorders. Progress in intranasal drug delivery using polymeric and lipid-based nanostructures for the development of treatments of various neurological diseases are also described.
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23
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Ulusoy E, Uysal Ateş Ş, Çitlenbik H, Öztürk A, Şık N, Arslan G, Yılmaz D, Yiş U, Hız S, Duman M. What is the safe observation period for seizure recurrence in pediatric emergency departments? Epilepsy Behav 2023; 139:109049. [PMID: 36603346 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2022.109049] [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: 09/24/2022] [Revised: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Afebrile seizures are the common causes of emergency department (ED) admissions in childhood, and there is limited data on the observation period in emergency service follow-up of these patients in terms of seizure recurrence in the literature. This study aims to determine the seizure recurrence time in afebrile seizures and the risk factors that determine it. METHODS Patients aged between 1 month and 18 years with afebrile seizures were included in the study. Seizure recurrence times, demographic data, diagnosis of epilepsy, use of antiseizure medications, Electroencephalography (EEG) and imaging results, structural abnormalities, hospitalizations, and treatments were recorded. RESULTS The median age of 623 patients included in the study was 42 months (16.0-94.0 months) and 59.9% were male. Epilepsy was diagnosed in 372 (59.7%) of the patients. Short-acting benzodiazepine was administered in 249 of the cases. The mean observation time of the patients was 36 hours (24-98 hours). Electroencephalography (EEG) was applied in 437 (70.1%) of the patients and abnormality was detected in 53.5%. Seizure recurrence was observed in 149 patients (23.9%). The median time of seizure recurrence was 1.0 hour (0.5-4.0 hours). Eighty-six percent of the seizure recurrences (n = 129) occurred within the first six hours and 95.3% (n = 142) within the first 12 hours. Risk factors included a history of febrile seizures (p = 0.001, OR = 2.7), not receiving short-acting benzodiazepine therapy (p = 0.026, OR 1.7), previous structural abnormalities (p = 0.018, OR 1.8), and cluster seizures (p = 0.001, OR 6.7) for all patients and also EEG abnormalities in pediatric ED for first seizure (p = 0.012, OR 2.4). CONCLUSION Patients with a history of febrile seizure, previous structural abnormalities, cluster seizures, EEG abnormalities in pediatric ED, and patients who didn't receive BZD treatment were at risk for seizure recurrence in the early period. Since most seizure recurrences occur within the first 6 hours, this period is the most critical time for recurrence risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emel Ulusoy
- Dokuz Eylul University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Emergency Care, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Şebnem Uysal Ateş
- Dokuz Eylul University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Hale Çitlenbik
- Dokuz Eylul University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Emergency Care, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Ali Öztürk
- Dokuz Eylul University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Emergency Care, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Nihan Şık
- Dokuz Eylul University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Emergency Care, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Gazi Arslan
- Dokuz Eylul University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Durgül Yılmaz
- Dokuz Eylul University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Emergency Care, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Uluç Yiş
- Dokuz Eylul University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Neurology, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Semra Hız
- Dokuz Eylul University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Neurology, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Murat Duman
- Dokuz Eylul University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Emergency Care, Izmir, Turkey.
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Muacevic A, Adler JR, Prakash A, Sarma P, Medhi B. The Evaluation of the Efficacy and Safety of Midazolam Nasal Spray in Patients With Seizure Clusters: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Cureus 2023; 15:e34064. [PMID: 36843713 PMCID: PMC9946901 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.34064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Midazolam nasal spray (MDZ-NS) is a new emerging rescue medication that suppresses epileptic seizures. Until now, few studies, pharmacokinetic (PK) and pharmacodynamic (PD) profiles, and clinical trials have shown that midazolam nasal spray could become an effective and promising alternative to conventional routes (intravenous {IV}/rectal). Therefore, we thought of conducting a systematic review and meta-analysis of midazolam (MDZ) to assess its potential outcomes. The analysis was also evaluated based on the pharmacokinetic (PK) and pharmacodynamic (PD) profiles of midazolam nasal spray. A systematic literature search was carried out through various databases to identify studies of accounted outcomes of midazolam nasal spray (MDZ-NS). Randomized and other studies of patients (12 years or older) with seizure clusters (SCs) were included. A total of three full-text articles were considered for systematic review and meta-analysis as per the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The 5 mg MDZ-NS was observed to be equally safe as a placebo, and the risk ratio (RR) was 1.01 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.67-1.53). After the administration of MDZ-NS, either the patients remained seizure-free for six hours or more or the seizure was terminated within 10 minutes and had no recurrence between 10 minutes and six hours. The risk ratio (RR) obtained was 1.54 (95% CI: 1.25-1.91). The result was statistically significant as a higher success rate was observed with the use of 5 mg midazolam nasal spray compared to placebo (p < 0.0001). Heterogeneity was not observed in the results of the included studies (inconsistency index {I2}: 0%). The present systematic review and meta-analysis demonstrated that 5 mg midazolam nasal spray was efficacious in treating patients with seizure clusters and is well-tolerated. Also, its use is relatively safe.
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Meng TC, Szaflarski JP, Chen L, Brunnert M, Campos R, Van Ess P, Pullman WE, Fakhoury T. Psychosocial outcomes of repeated treatment of seizure clusters with midazolam nasal spray: Results of a phase 3, open-label extension trial. Epilepsy Behav 2023; 138:108989. [PMID: 36410152 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2022.108989] [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: 09/01/2022] [Revised: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate treatment satisfaction, level of anxiety, confidence about traveling with midazolam nasal spray (MDZ-NS), and health-related quality of life in patients with seizure clusters and their caregivers after repeated, intermittent use of MDZ-NS in the outpatient setting. METHODS We analyzed the psychosocial outcome data from a phase 3, open-label extension trial (ARTEMIS-2; P261-402; NCT01529034) in patients 12 years of age and older with seizure clusters on a stable regimen of antiseizure medications. Caregivers administered MDZ-NS 5 mg when patients experienced a seizure cluster. A second dose could be given if seizures did not terminate within 10 min or recurred from 10 min to 6 h. Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire for Medication (TSQM), the Intranasal Therapy Impact Questionnaire (ITIQ), and the Short Form-12 Health Survey version 2 (SF-12v2) were self-administered by patients and/or caregivers at prespecified visits. RESULTS Of the one hundred and seventy-five patients enrolled in ARTEMIS-2, 161 (92.0%) received ≥ 1 dose of MDZ-NS and had a post-treatment seizure-related assessment and were included in the Efficacy Evaluable Set in this analysis, with a total of 1,998 treated seizure clusters over a median duration of 16.8 months. All TSQM scales showed improvement from the baseline of the double-blind ARTEMIS-1 trial (NCT01390220) to the last visit in ARTEMIS-2, indicating greater satisfaction with MDZ-NS across all domains, with a mean change from baseline of 8.8, 6.1, 4.3, and 6.2 for effectiveness (n = 135), side effects (n = 139), convenience (n = 139), and global satisfaction (n = 138), respectively. Change from baseline in TSQM scores generally increased with repeated MDZ-NS use. In both patients and caregivers, anxiety generally lessened with repeated MDZ-NS use, with a mean improvement in ITIQ scores in patients' anxiety since receiving MDZ-NS from 2.5 (n = 138) to 3.5 (n = 145) from visit 1 to the last visit (and from 2.6 [n = 156] to 3.6 [n = 160] for caregivers), respectively. From visit 1 (screening and enrollment in ARTEMIS-2) to visit 10 (after 16 seizure cluster episodes treated with MDZ-NS), the proportions of patients and caregivers who answered "strongly agree" or "agree" for confidence about traveling with an intranasal spray remained ≥ 79% and generally increased over repeated MDZ-NS use. Small positive mean changes in SF-12v2 scores from baseline to the last visit were observed in both patients and caregivers, respectively, for the domains of physical functioning (0.9, 1.1), role-physical (2.4, 0.3), bodily pain (1.7, 0.3), general health (0.6, 1.2), and role-emotional (2.1, 0.3), and in the physical health component (1.6, 1.0). CONCLUSION Patients and caregivers perceived MDZ-NS favorably, with improvement from baseline on perceived effectiveness, side effects, convenience, and global satisfaction in the TSQM. This is supported by progressively lower anxiety and higher confidence levels about traveling with MDZ-NS over repeated intermittent use in the ITIQ. The positive mean changes observed in SF-12v2 scores from baseline to the last visit were small in magnitude. Limitations of this exploratory analysis include the open-label trial design and that these questionnaires have not been directly validated in epilepsy to identify clinically important changes; however, this does not mean these findings are not clinically meaningful. Overall, MDZ-NS is a socially acceptable drug device for outpatient treatment of seizure clusters that has the potential to improve quality of life and overall independence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tze-Chiang Meng
- Proximagen LLC, 605 Highway 169 N, Suite 240, Plymouth, MN 55441, USA.
| | - Jerzy P Szaflarski
- Departments of Neurology, Neurobiology, and Neurosurgery, Comprehensive Neuroscience Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham Heersink School of Medicine, 1719 6th Ave South, CIRC 312, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA.
| | - Linda Chen
- UCB Pharma, 1950 Lake Park Dr SE, Smyrna, GA 30080, USA.
| | - Marcus Brunnert
- UCB Pharma, Alfred-Nobel-Straße 10, 40789 Monheim am Rhein, Germany.
| | - Rita Campos
- UCB Pharma, 1950 Lake Park Dr SE, Smyrna, GA 30080, USA.
| | - Peter Van Ess
- Proximagen LLC, 605 Highway 169 N, Suite 240, Plymouth, MN 55441, USA.
| | - William E Pullman
- Proximagen LLC, 605 Highway 169 N, Suite 240, Plymouth, MN 55441, USA.
| | - Toufic Fakhoury
- St. Joseph Health System, 1401 Harrodsburg Road, Suite B-280, Lexington, KY 40504, USA.
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Chung S, Peters JM, Detyniecki K, Tatum W, Rabinowicz AL, Carrazana E. The nose has it: Opportunities and challenges for intranasal drug administration for neurologic conditions including seizure clusters. Epilepsy Behav Rep 2022; 21:100581. [PMID: 36636458 PMCID: PMC9829802 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebr.2022.100581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Nasal administration of treatments for neurologic conditions, including rescue therapies to treat seizure clusters among people with epilepsy, represents a meaningful advance in patient care. Nasal anatomy and physiology underpin the multiple advantages of nasal administration but also present challenges that must be addressed in any successful nasal formulation. Nasal cavity anatomy is complex, with a modest surface area for absorption that limits the dose volume of an intranasal formulation. The mucociliary clearance mechanism and natural barriers of the nasal epithelia must be overcome for adequate absorption. An extensive vasculature and the presence of olfactory nerves in the nasal cavity enable both systemic and direct-to-brain delivery of drugs targeting the central nervous system. Two intranasal benzodiazepine rescue therapies have been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for seizure-cluster treatment, in addition to the traditional rectal formulation. Nasal sprays are easy to use and offer the potential for quick and consistent bioavailability. This review aims to increase the clinician's understanding of nasal anatomy and physiology and of the formulation of intranasal rescue therapies and to facilitate patient education and incorporate intranasal rescue therapies for seizure clusters (also known as acute repetitive seizures) into their seizure action plans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steve Chung
- Banner University Medical Center, University of Arizona, 475 N. 5th St., Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States,Corresponding author.
| | - Jurriaan M. Peters
- Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 300 Longwood Ave, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Kamil Detyniecki
- Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, 1600 NW 10th Ave #1140, Miami, FL 33136, United States
| | - William Tatum
- Mayo Clinic, 4500 San Pablo Rd S, Jacksonville, FL 32224, United States
| | | | - Enrique Carrazana
- Neurelis, Inc., 3430 Carmel Mountain Rd, San Diego, CA 92121, United States,John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, 651 Ilalo St, Honolulu, HI 96813, United States
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27
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Sugeçti S, Kepekçi AB, Büyükgüzel K. Effects of Midazolam on Antioxidant Levels, Biochemical and Metabolic Parameters in Eurygaster integriceps Puton (Hemiptera: Scutelleridae) Eggs Parasitized by Trissolcus semistriatus Nees (Hymenoptera: Scelionidae). BULLETIN OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION AND TOXICOLOGY 2022; 110:4. [PMID: 36495324 DOI: 10.1007/s00128-022-03648-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Eurygaster integriceps Puton (Hemiptera: Scutelleridae) is among the most important insect pests of wheat (Triticum sativum L.) and barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) grown in the Middle East. Biological and chemical methods are insufficient to control E. integriceps populations below economic thresholds. In this study, we investigated the effects of midazolam, a clinical drug, on selected metabolic enzyme activity, antioxidant levels, and biochemical parameters in E. integriceps eggs parasitized by Trissolcus semistriatus Nees (Hymenoptera: Scelionidae). Increasing concentrations of midazolam caused cell damage in the parasitized eggs due to its oxidative effects. Transferase enzymes, such as, aspartate transferase, alanine transferase, and gamma glutamyl transferase activities were altered following exposure. Metabolic enzymes, such as, creatine kinase, alkaline phosphatase, amylase, and lactate dehydrogenase also were adversely affected. Levels of the non-enzymatic antioxidants uric acid, bilirubin, and albumin also were altered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serkan Sugeçti
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Çaycuma Food and Agriculture Vocational School, Zonguldak Bülent Ecevit University, Zonguldak, Turkey.
| | - Ali Bestemi Kepekçi
- Department of Anesthesia, Vocational School of Health Services, İstanbul Yeni Yüzyıl University, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Kemal Büyükgüzel
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science and Art, Zonguldak Bülent Ecevit University, Zonguldak, Turkey
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28
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Jafarpour S, Fong MWK, Detyniecki K, Khan A, Jackson-Shaheed E, Wang X, Lewis S, Benjamin R, Gaínza-Lein M, O'Bryan J, Hirsch LJ, Loddenkemper T. Prevalence and Predictors of Seizure Clusters in Pediatric Patients With Epilepsy: The Harvard-Yale Pediatric Seizure Cluster Study. Pediatr Neurol 2022; 137:22-29. [PMID: 36208614 DOI: 10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2022.08.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Determine the prevalence of seizure clusters (two or more seizures in six hours), use of rescue medications, and adverse outcomes associated with seizure clusters in pediatric patients with a range of epilepsy severities, and identify risk factors predictive of seizure clusters. METHODS Prospective observational two-center study, including phone call and seizure diary follow-up for 12 months in patients with epilepsy aged one month to 18 years. We classified patients into three risk groups based on seizures within the prior year: high, seizure cluster (two or more seizures within one day); intermediate, at least one seizure but no days with two or more seizures; low, no seizures. RESULTS One-third (32.3%; high risk, 72.4%; intermediate risk, 30.4%; low risk, 3.1%) of 297 patients had a seizure cluster during the study, including half (46.2%) of the patients with active seizures at baseline (intermediate- and high-risk groups combined). Emergency room visits or injuries were no more likely due to a seizure cluster than an isolated seizure. Rescue medications were utilized in 15.8% of patients in the high-risk group and 19.2% in the intermediate-risk group. History of status epilepticus (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 2.13; confidence interval [CI], 1.09 to 4.16]), seizure frequency greater than four per month (aOR, 4.27; CI, 1.92 to 9.50), and high-risk group status (aOR, 6.42; CI, 2.97 to 13.87) were associated with greater odds of seizure cluster. CONCLUSIONS Seizure clusters are common in pediatric patients with epilepsy. High seizure frequency was the strongest predictor of clusters. Rescue medications were underutilized. Future studies should evaluate the applicability and effectiveness of these medications for optimization of pediatric seizure cluster treatment and reduction of seizure-related emergency department visits, injuries, and mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saba Jafarpour
- Division of Epilepsy and Clinical Neurophysiology, Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts; Division of Neurology, Children's Hospital of Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Michael W K Fong
- Department of Neurology, Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut; TY Nelson Department of Neurology, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, Australia; Westmead Comprehensive Epilepsy Unit, Westmead Hospital, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Kamil Detyniecki
- Department of Neurology, Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut; Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Department of Neurology, University of Miami, Miami, Florida
| | - Ambar Khan
- Department of Neurology, Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut; Larkin Community Hospital, South Miami, Florida
| | - Ebony Jackson-Shaheed
- Department of Neurology, Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut; VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut
| | - Xiaofan Wang
- Division of Epilepsy and Clinical Neurophysiology, Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Samuel Lewis
- Division of Epilepsy and Clinical Neurophysiology, Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts; Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Robert Benjamin
- Division of Epilepsy and Clinical Neurophysiology, Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts; Department of Surgery, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts
| | - Marina Gaínza-Lein
- Division of Epilepsy and Clinical Neurophysiology, Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts; Instituto dr Pediatria, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile; Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Jane O'Bryan
- Department of Neurology, Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Lawrence J Hirsch
- Department of Neurology, Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Tobias Loddenkemper
- Division of Epilepsy and Clinical Neurophysiology, Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.
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29
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Cornett EM, Nemomsa MA, Turbeville B, Busby MA, Kaye JS, Kaye AJ, Choi J, Ramírez GF, Varrassi G, Kaye AM, Kaye AD, Wilson J, Ganti L. Midazolam nasal spray to treat intermittent, stereotypic episodes of frequent seizure activity: pharmacology and clinical role, a comprehensive review. Health Psychol Res 2022; 10:38536. [PMID: 36262479 PMCID: PMC9560890 DOI: 10.52965/001c.38536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/04/2023] Open
Abstract
An intranasal formulation of midazolam, Nayzilam, has been FDA-approved to treat intermittent, stereotypic episodes of frequent seizure activity. Nayzilam is easy to administer and can quickly treat seizures that occur outside of the hospital. The intra-nasal route of administration allows non-medical personal to administer the drug which makes it more accessible and user-friendly in the event of a seizure. Many studies have indicated quick cessation of seizures with Nayzilam compared to rectal diazepam, which has been the standard of care treatment. Nayzilam has been proven to be safe and effective for acute seizures in children, deeming it a revolutionary alternative in times where intravenous administration is not possible.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Jessica S Kaye
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Thomas J. Long School of Pharmacy, University of the Pacific
| | - Aaron J Kaye
- Department of Anesthesiology, Medical University of South Carolina
| | | | | | | | - Adam M Kaye
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Thomas J. Long School of Pharmacy, University of the Pacific
| | - Alan D Kaye
- Department of Anesthesiology, LSU Health Shreveport
| | - James Wilson
- University of Central Florida College of Medicine
| | - Latha Ganti
- University of Central Florida College of Medicine
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30
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Kang J, Zheng Z, Li X, Huang T, Rong D, Liu X, Qin M, Wang Y, Kong X, Song J, Lv C, Pan X. Midazolam exhibits antitumour and enhances the efficiency of Anti-PD-1 immunotherapy in hepatocellular carcinoma. Cancer Cell Int 2022; 22:312. [PMID: 36224624 PMCID: PMC9555186 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-022-02735-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Midazolam (MDZ) is an anaesthetic that is widely used for anxiolysis and sedation. More recently, MDZ has also been described to be related to the outcome of various types of carcinomas. However, how MDZ influences the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and its effects on the biological function and tumour immune microenvironment of this type of tumour remain unknown. METHODS The effects of MDZ on the proliferation, invasion, and migration of HCC cell lines were examined in vitro using the Cell Counting Kit 8 (CCK8), 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine (EdU), Transwell, and wound healing assays. Additionally, western blotting was employed to confirm that PD-L1 was expressed. Chromatin immunoprecipitation-seq (ChIP-seq) analysis was used to pinpoint the transcriptional regulation regions of NF-κB and programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1). A C57BL/6 mouse model was used to produce subcutaneous HCC tumors in order to evaluate the in vivo performance of MDZ. Mass spectrometry was also used to assess changes in the tumour immunological microenvironment following MDZ injection. RESULTS The HCC-LM3 and Hep-3B cell lines' proliferation, invasion, and migration were controlled by MDZ, according to the results of the CCK8, EdU, Transwell, and wound healing assays. PD-L1 expression was shown by ChIP-seq analysis to be boosted by NF-κB, and by Western blotting analysis, it was shown that MDZ downregulated the expression of NF-κB. Additionally, in vivo tests revealed that intraperitoneal MDZ injections reduced HCC tumor development and enhanced the effectiveness of anti-PD-1 therapy. The CD45+ immune cell proportions were higher in the MDZ group than in the PBS group, according to the mass spectrometry results. Injection of MDZ resulted in a decrease in the proportions of CD4+ T cells, CD8+ T cells, natural killer (NK) cells, monocytes, Tregs, and M2 macrophages and a rise in the proportion of dendritic cells. Additionally, the concentrations of the cytokines IFN-g and TNF-a were noticeably raised whereas the concentrations of the CD8+ T-cell fatigue markers ICOS, TIGIT, and TIM3 were noticeably lowered. CONCLUSION According to this study, MDZ inhibited the progression of HCC by inhibiting the NF-κB pathway and reducing the exhaustion of CD8+ T cells. In clinical practice, MDZ combined with anti-PD-1 therapy might contribute to synergistically improving the antitumor efficacy of HCC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junwei Kang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhiying Zheng
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xian Li
- Department of General Surgery, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Tian Huang
- Hepatobiliary Center, Key Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, NHC Key Laboratory of Living Donor Liver Transplantation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanjing, China
| | - Dawei Rong
- Hepatobiliary Center, Key Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, NHC Key Laboratory of Living Donor Liver Transplantation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanjing, China
| | - Xinyang Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Miaomiao Qin
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yuliang Wang
- Basic Medical School, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiangyi Kong
- Hepatobiliary Center, Key Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, NHC Key Laboratory of Living Donor Liver Transplantation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanjing, China
| | - Jinhua Song
- Hepatobiliary Center, Key Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, NHC Key Laboratory of Living Donor Liver Transplantation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanjing, China.
| | - Chengyu Lv
- Department of General Surgery, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.
| | - Xiongxiong Pan
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.
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31
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Kotloski RJ, Gidal BE. Rescue Treatments for Seizure Clusters. Neurol Clin 2022; 40:927-937. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ncl.2022.03.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
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Gidal B, Detyniecki K. Rescue therapies for seizure clusters: Pharmacology and target of treatments. Epilepsia 2022; 63 Suppl 1:S34-S44. [PMID: 35999174 PMCID: PMC9543841 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
The primary goal of treatment for seizure clusters is cessation of the cluster to avoid progression to more severe conditions, such as prolonged seizures and status epilepticus. Rescue therapies are key components of treatment plans for patients with seizure clusters. Three rescue therapies are approved in the United States for the treatment of seizure clusters: diazepam rectal gel, midazolam nasal spray, and diazepam nasal spray. This review characterizes the pharmacological function of rescue therapies for seizure clusters, as well as describing γ‐aminobutyric acid A (GABAA) receptor functions. GABAA receptors are heteropentamers, consisting primarily of α1‐6, β1‐3, γ2, and δ subunits in the central nervous system. These subunits can traffic to and from the membrane to regulate membrane potential. Benzodiazepines, such as diazepam and midazolam, are positive allosteric modulators of GABAA receptors, the activation of which leads to an increase in intracellular chloride, hyperpolarization of the cell membrane, and a reduction in excitation. GABAA receptor subunit mutations, dysregulation of trafficking, and degradation are associated with epilepsy. Although benzodiazepines are effective GABAA receptor modulators, individual formulations have unique profiles in practice. Diazepam rectal gel is an effective rescue therapy for seizure clusters; however, adults and adolescents may have social reservations regarding its administration. Intranasal delivery of midazolam or diazepam is a promising alternative to rectal administration because these formulations offer easy, socially acceptable administration and exhibit a rapid onset. Off‐label benzodiazepines, such as orally disintegrating lorazepam and intranasal use of an intravenous formulation of midazolam via nasal atomizer, are less well characterized regarding bioavailability and tolerability compared with approved agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barry Gidal
- School of Pharmacy, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, United States
| | - Kamil Detyniecki
- Department of Neurology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, United States
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Kapur J, Long L, Dixon-Salazar T. Consequences: Bench to home. Epilepsia 2022; 63 Suppl 1:S14-S24. [PMID: 35999173 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Seizure clusters (also referred to as acute repetitive seizures) consist of several seizures interspersed with brief interictal periods. Seizure clusters can break down γ-aminobutyric acidergic (GABAergic) inhibition of dentate granule cells, leading to hyperactivation. Functional changes to GABAA receptors, which play a vital neuroinhibitory role, can include altered GABAA receptor subunit trafficking and cellular localization, intracellular chloride accumulation, and dysregulation of proteins critical to chloride homeostasis. A reduction in neuroinhibition and potentiation of excitatory neurotransmission in CA1 pyramidal neurons represent pathological mechanisms that underlie seizure clusters. Benzodiazepines are well-established treatments for seizure clusters; however, there remain barriers to appropriate care. At the clinical level, there is variability in seizure cluster definitions, such as the number and/or type of seizures associated with a cluster as well as the interictal duration between seizures. This can lead to delays in diagnosis and timely treatment. There are gaps in understanding between clinicians, their patients, and caregivers regarding acute treatment for seizure clusters, such as the use of rescue medications and emergency services. This lack of consensus to define seizure clusters in addition to a lack of education for appropriate treatment can affect quality of life for patients and place a greater burden on patient families and caregivers. For patients with seizure clusters, the sense of unpredictability can lead to continuous traumatic stress, during which patients and families live with a heightened level of anxiety. Clinicians can affect patient quality of life and clinical outcomes through improved seizure cluster education and treatment, such as the development and implementation of a personalized seizure action plan as well as prescriptions for suitable rescue medications indicated for seizure clusters and instructions for their proper use. In all, the combination of targeted therapy along with patient education and support can improve quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaideep Kapur
- Department of Neurology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Lucretia Long
- Wexner Medical Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
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Li C, Benbadis SR. Use of new intranasal benzodiazepines at a typical adult epilepsy center. Epilepsy Behav 2022; 134:108867. [PMID: 35964459 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2022.108867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Revised: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to review out-of-hospital use of intranasal diazepam and midazolam for treatment of acute repetitive seizures (ARS) at a typical adult epilepsy center. METHODS Data were collected through chart review and by telephone calls to either the patient or the caregiver regarding drug effectiveness, overall satisfaction, and adverse events. RESULTS We identified 96 patients who were prescribed either benzodiazepine. Thirty-nine patients in the diazepam group and 38 patients in the midazolam group were able to be contacted and were included in the study. Sixty-two percent of patients in the diazepam group and 55% of patients in the midazolam group had used the medication at the time of data collection. Of these patients, 83% of patients in the diazepam group and 85% of patients in the midazolam group reported cessation of seizures after either the first or second dose. In comparison of the average patient satisfaction between intranasal diazepam and midazolam, there was no statistical significance (4.25 ± 1.22 vs 3.95 ± 1.35; p = 0.42). Adverse events were minor, included fatigue, nasal discomfort, headache, and dizziness. DISCUSSION The use of the two new intranasal benzodiazepines was roughly divided equally. Slightly more than half of the patients who were prescribed the medication had used it. The overall satisfaction of the two medications was comparable. These findings highlight the principal usability of intranasal diazepam and midazolam in adults with ARS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caralynn Li
- University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine, Department of Neurology, Tampa, FL, USA.
| | - Selim R Benbadis
- University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine, Department of Neurology, Tampa, FL, USA
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Faught E. Economic aspects of treating seizure clusters. Epilepsia 2022; 63 Suppl 1:S45-S54. [PMID: 35999172 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17340] [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: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Seizure clusters may initiate a chain of events that have economic as well as clinical consequences. The potential economic consequences of seizure clusters must be weighed against the cost of medication to attenuate them. This is true both for individual patients and for society. Data needed for economic analyses include the chance that a cluster will progress to an adverse outcome, such as a need for emergency care, the costs of such an outcome, the cost of a rescue medication (RM), and the effectiveness of the RM. Indirect costs, such as lost employment for patients and caregivers, must also be considered. Several types of economic analyses can be used to determine costs and benefits of a medical intervention. There are studies comparing different RMs from an economic perspective, but there is little direct information on the costs of using an RM versus allowing clusters to run their course. However, the high expense of consequences of seizure clusters makes it likely that effective RMs will make economic as well as medical sense for many patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward Faught
- Department of Neurology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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Haut SR, Nabbout R. Recognizing seizure clusters in the community: The path to uniformity and individualization in nomenclature and definition. Epilepsia 2022; 63 Suppl 1:S6-S13. [PMID: 35999176 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Seizure emergencies experienced by patients with epilepsy include status epilepticus and seizure clusters. Although an accepted definition of status epilepticus exists, no clear consensus definition of seizure clusters has emerged; this is further complicated by the appearance in the literature of various empirically based definitions that have been developed for clinical trial study designs. In general, patients with intractable epilepsy have been shown to have a significant risk for acute episodes of increased seizure activity called seizure clusters (also referred to as acute repetitive seizures, among other terms) that differ from their usual seizure pattern. Duration (e.g., number of hours or days) is often included in the definition of a seizure cluster; however, the duration may vary among patients, with some seizure clusters lasting ≥24 h and requiring long-acting treatment for this period. In addition to seizure cluster duration, the time between seizures and possible acceleration in seizure frequency during the cluster may be important variables. The recognition and treatment of seizure clusters require urgent action because episodes that are not quickly and appropriately treated may lead to injury or progress to status epilepticus or potentially death. Most seizure clusters occur outside a medical facility (in the community) and treatment is usually administered by nonmedical individuals; therefore, health care providers may benefit from a clear description of these potential seizure emergencies that they can then use to educate patients and caregivers on the prompt and appropriate identification of seizure clusters and administration of rescue therapy. Here we explore why greater uniformity is needed in the discussion of seizure clusters. This exploration examines epidemiologic studies of seizure clusters and status epilepticus, inconsistencies in nomenclature and definitions for seizure clusters, practical application of seizure cluster terminology, and the potential use of acute seizure action plans and patient-specific individualized definitions in the clinical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheryl R Haut
- Comprehensive Epilepsy Management Center, Einstein-Montefiore, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Rima Nabbout
- Reference Center for Rare Epilepsies, Department of Pediatric Neurology, Hôpital Necker Enfants Malades, APHP, EPICARE European Reference Network, Université de Paris Cité, Institut Imagine, Inserm U1163, Paris, France
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Blond BN, Hirsch LJ. Updated review of rescue treatments for seizure clusters and prolonged seizures. Expert Rev Neurother 2022; 22:567-577. [PMID: 35862983 DOI: 10.1080/14737175.2022.2105207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Although the treatment of epilepsy primarily focuses on prevention, recurrent seizures are unfortunately an ongoing reality, particularly in people with epilepsy who live with chronic refractory seizures. Rescue medications are agents which can be administered in urgent/emergent seizure episodes such as seizure clusters or prolonged seizures with the goal of terminating seizure activity, preventing morbidity, and decreasing the risk of further seizures. AREAS COVERED This review first discusses clinical opportunities for rescue medications, with particular attention focused on seizure clusters and prolonged seizures, including their epidemiology, risk factors, and associated morbidity. Current rescue medications, their indications, efficacy, and adverse effects are discussed. We then discuss rescue medications and formulations which are currently under development, concentrating on practical aspects relevant for clinical care. EXPERT OPINION Rescue medications should be considered for all people with epilepsy with ongoing seizures. Recent rescue medications including intranasal formulations provide considerable advantages. New rescue medications are being developed which may expand opportunities for effective treatment. In the future, combining rescue medications with seizure detection and seizure prediction technologies should further expand opportunities for use and should reduce the morbidity of seizures and provide increased comfort, control, and quality of life for people living with epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin N Blond
- Department of Neurology, Stony Brook University Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook, NY
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Safety of Diazepam Nasal Spray in Children and Adolescents With Epilepsy: Results From a Long-Term Phase 3 Safety Study. Pediatr Neurol 2022; 132:50-55. [PMID: 35636283 DOI: 10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2022.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Revised: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To evaluate safety and tolerability of long-term treatment with diazepam nasal spray (Valtoco) for seizure clusters in patients aged six to 17 years. METHODS The study enrolled patients aged six to 65 years with frequent seizure clusters. Age- and weight-based doses of diazepam nasal spray were administered; second doses were permitted if needed. Safety assessments included treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs). RESULTS Of 163 treated patients, 45 (27.6%) were aged six to 11 years and 33 (20.2%) were aged 12 to 17 years. Mean doses per month were 2.1 in the 6 to 11 subgroup and 2.4 in the 12 to 17 subgroup. Of 1634 seizure clusters in pediatric patients, 186 (11.4%) required a second dose of diazepam nasal spray within 24 hours of the first dose. Similar proportions of TEAEs and serious TEAEs were reported in 6 to 11 (91.1%, 40.0%) and 12 to 17 subgroups (81.8%, 30.3%), respectively. No serious TEAEs were considered treatment related, and no patients discontinued because of TEAEs. Treatment-related TEAEs were more frequent in the 12 to 17 subgroup; only epistaxis and somnolence occurred in two or more patients overall. TEAE rates were similar across subgroups that received concomitant clobazam (90.0%), received prior diazepam rectal gel (90.9%), and were administered less than two versus greater than or equal to two doses per month (87.2% for both) of diazepam nasal spray. Most survey respondents (88%) were satisfied or very satisfied with treatment. CONCLUSIONS In this long-term safety analysis in pediatric patients with seizure clusters, repeated doses of diazepam nasal spray demonstrated a safety profile consistent across subgroups. These data support the dosing guidelines for diazepam nasal spray according to age and weight for pediatric patients.
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Pfeiffer CK, Mackay MT, Long E, Stephens D, Dalziel SR, Babl FE. Parenteral Long-Acting Antiseizure Medications Are Used More Often to Treat Seizure Clusters Than Convulsive Status Epilepticus in the Pediatric Emergency Department. J Child Neurol 2022; 37:589-598. [PMID: 35142572 DOI: 10.1177/08830738221077751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Objective:Recent trials provide high-quality evidence for second-line treatment of convulsive status epilepticus (CSE) in children. However, the most effective medications for other seizure emergencies are poorly understood without established treatment algorithms. We investigated children presenting to the emergency department with repetitive or prolonged convulsions who required intravenous long-acting antiseizure medications, to determine the relative importance and treatment responsiveness of status epilepticus and seizure clusters. Methods: Retrospective observational study in the emergency department, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia (annual census 90 000) using hospital electronic medical records data of patients presenting with seizures in 2018. For patients receiving parenteral long-acting antiseizure medications, seizures were categorized as convulsive status epilepticus, nonconvulsive status epilepticus, and seizure clusters. Results: 1468 patients (2% of all visits) presented with seizures to the emergency department in 2018. Long-acting antiseizure medications were administered to 97 (7%) children for the emergency management of seizures. The majority presented with seizure clusters (n = 69; 71%). Only 11 (11%) were in convulsive status epilepticus and 17 (18%) in nonconvulsive status epilepticus. In convulsive status epilepticus, nonconvulsive status epilepticus, and seizure clusters, phenytoin was used in 27%, 53%, and 58% and levetiracetam in 73%, 47%, and 32%, respectively. Conclusions:Convulsive status epilepticus represents a small portion of patients requiring parenteral long-acting antiseizure medications. Seizure clusters accounted for >6 times the number of convulsive status epilepticus, yet evidence and treatment algorithms are lacking.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mark T Mackay
- 34361Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Neurology, 6453The Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Elliot Long
- 34361Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Emergency Department, 6453The Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Paediatric Research in Emergency Departments International Collaborative (PREDICT), Parkville, Australia
| | - David Stephens
- Decision Support Unit, The Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Stuart R Dalziel
- Paediatric Research in Emergency Departments International Collaborative (PREDICT), Parkville, Australia.,Children's Emergency Department, Starship Children's Hospital, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Franz E Babl
- 34361Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Emergency Department, 6453The Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Paediatric Research in Emergency Departments International Collaborative (PREDICT), Parkville, Australia
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The purpose of this review is to provide a succinct evaluation of the current rescue medications and action plans available to our patients with seizure clusters in the outpatient setting. RECENT FINDINGS The main themes of the recent findings are that rescue medications and seizure action plans (SAPs) are underutilized, particularly in the adult population. The safety and efficacy of intranasal midazolam and intranasal diazepam is comparable with rectal diazepam for the treatment of seizure clusters. Additionally, this intranasal formulation has the benefit of a more socially acceptable route of administration and ease of use. SUMMARY The implication of these findings is a greater variety and awareness in the rescue medications available to our patients suffering from seizure clusters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonali Sharma
- University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
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Li Y, Wu H, Jiang X, Dong Y, Zheng J, Gao J. New idea to promote the clinical applications of stem cells or their extracellular vesicles in central nervous system disorders: combining with intranasal delivery. Acta Pharm Sin B 2022; 12:3215-3232. [PMID: 35967290 PMCID: PMC9366301 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2022.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2021] [Revised: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The clinical translation of stem cells and their extracellular vesicles (EVs)-based therapy for central nervous system (CNS) diseases is booming. Nevertheless, the insufficient CNS delivery and retention together with the invasiveness of current administration routes prevent stem cells or EVs from fully exerting their clinical therapeutic potential. Intranasal (IN) delivery is a possible strategy to solve problems as IN route could circumvent the brain‒blood barrier non-invasively and fit repeated dosage regimens. Herein, we gave an overview of studies and clinical trials involved with IN route and discussed the possibility of employing IN delivery to solve problems in stem cells or EVs-based therapy. We reviewed relevant researches that combining stem cells or EVs-based therapy with IN administration and analyzed benefits brought by IN route. Finally, we proposed possible suggestions to facilitate the development of IN delivery of stem cells or EVs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaosheng Li
- Institute of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Honghui Wu
- Institute of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Xinchi Jiang
- Institute of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Dr. Li Dak Sum & Yip Yio Chin Center for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Yunfei Dong
- Institute of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Juanjuan Zheng
- Institute of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Jianqing Gao
- Institute of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Dr. Li Dak Sum & Yip Yio Chin Center for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Hangzhou Institute of Innovative Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Corresponding author. Tel.: +86 571 88208436.
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Shen Q, Xia Y, Yang L, Wang B, Peng J. Midazolam Suppresses Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cell Metastasis and Enhances Apoptosis by Elevating miR-217. COMPUTATIONAL AND MATHEMATICAL METHODS IN MEDICINE 2022; 2022:2813521. [PMID: 35309842 PMCID: PMC8926537 DOI: 10.1155/2022/2813521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Revised: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Background Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a significant cause of human death in the world. Recently, it is found that midazolam can modulate miRs to participate in HCC progression. This research project was designed to elucidate the impacts of midazolam and miR-217 on HCC cell metastasis and apoptosis. Methods Human HCC cell strains (Hep3B and SK-HEP-1) were selected and intervened by midazolam at different concentrations in our research. miR-217-inhibitor intervened in the two HCC cell strains to observe the alterations of cell migration, invasiveness, and apoptosis. The miR-217 level in HCC cells was identified by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Results As midazolam concentration was elevated, Hep3B and SK-HEP-1 viabilities were more obviously suppressed. The 10 μg/mL concentration was selected for analysis since Hep3B and SK-HEP-1 had an IC50 of 10.57 μg/mL and 9.35 μg/m, respectively. The qRT-PCR results showed the decreased of miR-217 in HCC cells, which was enhanced notably by midazolam intervention. Compared with the blank group, the invasiveness and migration (Transwell assay) of miR-217-inhibitor-transfected HCC cells were distinctly enhanced and the apoptosis rate (flow cytometry) was noticeably reduced. Conclusion Midazolam can upregulate miR-217 in HCC cells, thus inhibiting HCC cell metastasis and apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Shen
- Department of Anesthesiology, Tongren Hospital of Wuhan University (Wuhan Third Hospital), Wuhan, Hubei 430060, China
| | - Yanqiong Xia
- Department of Anesthesiology, Tongren Hospital of Wuhan University (Wuhan Third Hospital), Wuhan, Hubei 430060, China
| | - Leilei Yang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Tongren Hospital of Wuhan University (Wuhan Third Hospital), Wuhan, Hubei 430060, China
| | - Bo Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Tongren Hospital of Wuhan University (Wuhan Third Hospital), Wuhan, Hubei 430060, China
| | - Jian Peng
- Department of Anesthesiology, Tongren Hospital of Wuhan University (Wuhan Third Hospital), Wuhan, Hubei 430060, China
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Asadollahi M, Maghsudloo F, Simani L, Pakdaman H. Factors predisposing patients with temporal lobe epilepsy to seizure cluster. CURRENT JOURNAL OF NEUROLOGY 2022; 21:12-16. [PMID: 38011472 PMCID: PMC9527866 DOI: 10.18502/cjn.v21i1.9355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Background: We aimed to identify the potential risk factors associated with seizure clusters in patients with temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE). Methods: This retrospective cross-sectional study was performed on all the consecutive patients with TLE, who were admitted to the Epilepsy Monitoring Unit (EMU), Loghman-Hakim Hospital, Tehran, Iran. Seizure cluster was defined as three or more habitual seizures occurring within 24 hours, in over 50% of ictal events, with inter-seizure interval of less than 8 hours. The patients' demographic data, epilepsy duration, seizure frequency, frequency of interictal epileptiform discharges (IEDs), and brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings were collected. Results: Among a total number of 124 patients with TLE, 62 (50.0%) patients reported seizure clusters. In addition, 44 (37.9%), 42 (36.2%), and 30 (25.9%) patients had normal-appearing brain MRI, mesial temporal sclerosis (MTS), and other brain pathologies, respectively. In terms of IEDs frequency, 35 (29.4%), 43 (36.1%), 17 (14.3%), and 24 (20.2%) patients had respectively frequent, occasional, rare, and no spikes in one-hour of interictal scalp electroencephalography (EEG) recording. In our study, seizure clusters were not associated with the epilepsy duration (P = 0.100), the amount of IEDs (P = 0.764), or MRI findings (P = 0.112). Conclusion: In patients with TLE, seizure clustering had no correlation with the epilepsy duration, the amount of IEDs, or brain MRI findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marjan Asadollahi
- Epilepsy Monitoring Unit, Loghman Hakim Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Faezeh Maghsudloo
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Leila Simani
- Skull Base Research Center, Loghman Hakim Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hossein Pakdaman
- Brain Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Benzodiazepines in the Management of Seizures and Status Epilepticus: A Review of Routes of Delivery, Pharmacokinetics, Efficacy, and Tolerability. CNS Drugs 2022; 36:951-975. [PMID: 35971024 PMCID: PMC9477921 DOI: 10.1007/s40263-022-00940-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Status epilepticus (SE) is an acute, life-threatening medical condition that requires immediate, effective therapy. Therefore, the acute care of prolonged seizures and SE is a constant challenge for healthcare professionals, in both the pre-hospital and the in-hospital settings. Benzodiazepines (BZDs) are the first-line treatment for SE worldwide due to their efficacy, tolerability, and rapid onset of action. Although all BZDs act as allosteric modulators at the inhibitory gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)A receptor, the individual agents have different efficacy profiles and pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties, some of which differ significantly. The conventional BZDs clonazepam, diazepam, lorazepam and midazolam differ mainly in their durations of action and available routes of administration. In addition to the common intravenous, intramuscular and rectal administrations that have long been established in the acute treatment of SE, other administration routes for BZDs-such as intranasal administration-have been developed in recent years, with some preparations already commercially available. Most recently, the intrapulmonary administration of BZDs via an inhaler has been investigated. This narrative review provides an overview of the current knowledge on the efficacy and tolerability of different BZDs, with a focus on different routes of administration and therapeutic specificities for different patient groups, and offers an outlook on potential future drug developments for the treatment of prolonged seizures and SE.
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Rabinowicz AL, Faught E, Cook DF, Carrazana E. Implications of Seizure-Cluster Treatment on Healthcare Utilization: Use of Approved Rescue Medications. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat 2022; 18:2431-2441. [PMID: 36325434 PMCID: PMC9619205 DOI: 10.2147/ndt.s376104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE People with epilepsy may experience seizure clusters despite a stable regimen of antiseizure medications. Such clusters have the potential to last ≥24 hours, typically occur in the community setting, and may progress to medical emergencies, such as status epilepticus, if untreated. Thus, long-acting rescue therapy for seizure clusters is needed that can be administered by nonmedical individuals outside a hospital. Benzodiazepines are the foundation of rescue therapy for seizure clusters. The approved outpatient treatments (ie, diazepam, midazolam) have differing profiles that may affect multiple aspects of health-care utilization. The current labeling of these medications allows for a second dose if needed to control the cluster. Although no head-to-head studies directly comparing rescue treatments have been conducted, differences between studies with generally similar designs may provide context for the potential importance of second doses of rescue therapy on health-care utilization. METHODS For this analysis, large, long-term, open-label studies of approved seizure-cluster treatments designed for use by nonmedical caregivers were reviewed, and the percentage of seizure clusters for which a second dose was used or that were not controlled at 6, 12, and 24 hours was examined. Available data on hospitalizations were also collected. RESULTS The 3 identified studies meeting the inclusion criteria were for use of diazepam rectal gel, intranasal midazolam, and diazepam nasal spray. Across these studies, the use of a second dose ranged from <40% at 6 hours to <13% at 24 hours. Hospitalizations and serious treatment-emergent adverse events were reported variably across these studies. CONCLUSION These results demonstrate the importance of second doses of rescue therapy for seizure clusters for optimizing health-care utilization. Need for second doses should be included as one component. In turn, when second doses are needed, they have the potential to curtail emergency department use and hospitalization and to prevent further seizure clusters.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Edward Faught
- Emory Epilepsy Program, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - David F Cook
- Clinical Development & Medical Affairs, Neurelis, Inc., San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Enrique Carrazana
- Clinical Development & Medical Affairs, Neurelis, Inc., San Diego, CA, USA.,John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, HI, USA
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Ramgopal S, McCans K, Martin-Gill C, Owusu-Ansah S. Variation in Prehospital Protocols for Pediatric Seizure Within the United States. Pediatr Emerg Care 2021; 37:e1331-e1338. [PMID: 32011553 DOI: 10.1097/pec.0000000000002029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to compare statewide prehospital protocols for the management of pediatric seizures. METHODS We performed a descriptive analysis comparing statewide protocols for emergency medical services management of pediatric seizures within the United States, excluding states for which no statewide protocol/model was available. We compared antiepileptic drugs (AEDs), routes and doses of administration, and differences in febrile seizure management. RESULTS Of 50 states, 34 had either statewide protocols or models and were included. All had a protocol for the management of seizures and provided specific recommendations for the management of pediatric seizures. Twelve states (35%) preferentially recommended midazolam over other benzodiazepines. Thirty-two (94%) of 34 allowed for use of midazolam, with variable use of other AEDs. All allowed for use of intramuscular AED. Twenty-six (77%) allowed for intranasal AED. Nine (27%) allowed emergency medical services to administer a patient's own abortive AED, and 6 (18%) allowed for use of a patient's vagal nerve stimulator, when present. There was a wide variability with respect to dosing ranges for medications. Thirty-two (94%) of 34 included blood glucose measurement within the protocol. Twenty-one protocols (62%) provided recommendations for febrile seizures, including recommending active/passive cooling (8/34, 24%) and antipyretic administration (9/34, 26%). CONCLUSIONS All statewide protocols carried specific guidelines for the prehospital management of pediatric seizures; however, there was wide variability with respect to specific AEDs, routes of administration, and drug dosages. In addition to broader availability of statewide guidance, areas of potential protocol improvement and research include AED dose optimization, reprioritization of blood glucose, and greater emphasis on intranasal or intramuscular medication dosing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sriram Ramgopal
- From the Division of Emergency Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL
| | - Kerry McCans
- UPMC Center for Emergency Medicine, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences
| | | | - Sylvia Owusu-Ansah
- Division of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA
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Samanta D. Rescue therapies for seizure emergencies: current and future landscape. Neurol Sci 2021; 42:4017-4027. [PMID: 34269935 PMCID: PMC8448953 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-021-05468-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Seizure emergencies-status epilepticus and seizure clusters-require rapid evaluation and treatment. Several consensus-based guidelines support a prompt use of intravenous benzodiazepines as the first-line therapy in seizure emergencies. However, most seizure emergencies start outside the hospital settings. Until recently, approved prehospital rescue therapies were limited to rectal diazepam and buccal midazolam (Europe only). METHODS The author provides a narrative review of rescue therapies for seizure emergencies based on a comprehensive literature review (PubMed and OvidSP vendors with appropriate keywords to incorporate recent evidence) to highlight the changing landscape of seizure recue therapies. RESULTS A commercial version of intranasal midazolam was approved by the FDA in 2019 for 12 ≥ years old with seizure clusters. In 2020, the FDA also approved a proprietary vitamin E solution-based diazepam nose spray to abort seizure clusters in ≥ 6 years old subjects. Other than these two new options, the author discussed two previously approved therapies: rectal diazepam and buccal midazolam. The review also includes the use of intramuscular diazepam and midazolam, clonazepam wafer, sublingual and intranasal lorazepam in seizure emergencies. Besides the availability of new therapies from successful trials in controlled settings, the real-world challenges of using rescue medicines in community settings are slowly emerging. DISCUSSION With multiple options, a more robust and updated cost-effective analysis of different rescue medicines needs to be performed using effectiveness data from the literature and cost data from publicly available market prices. Further research is also ongoing to develop alternative non-intravenous treatment options for outpatient settings. Lastly, several other non-benzodiazepine drugs, such as allopregnanolone, propofol, and brivaracetam, are also currently under development for seizure emergencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debopam Samanta
- Child Neurology Section, Department of Pediatrics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 1 Children's Way, Little Rock, AR, 72202, USA.
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A Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic Model for Predicting Diazepam Pharmacokinetics after Intravenous, Oral, Intranasal, and Rectal Applications. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:pharmaceutics13091480. [PMID: 34575556 PMCID: PMC8465253 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13091480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2021] [Revised: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Diazepam is one of the most prescribed anxiolytic and anticonvulsant that is administered through intravenous (IV), oral, intramuscular, intranasal, and rectal routes. To facilitate the clinical use of diazepam, there is a need to develop formulations that are convenient to administer in ambulatory settings. The present study aimed to develop and evaluate a physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model for diazepam that is capable of predicting its pharmacokinetics (PK) after IV, oral, intranasal, and rectal applications using a whole-body population-based PBPK simulator, Simcyp®. The model evaluation was carried out using visual predictive checks, observed/predicted ratios (Robs/pred), and the average fold error (AFE) of PK parameters. The Diazepam PBPK model successfully predicted diazepam PK in an adult population after doses were administered through IV, oral, intranasal, and rectal routes, as the Robs/pred of all PK parameters were within a two-fold error range. The developed model can be used for the development and optimization of novel diazepam dosage forms, and it can be extended to simulate drug response in situations where no clinical data are available (healthy and disease).
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Abstract
Acute repetitive seizures, also called seizure clusters, are common phenomena in patients with epilepsy. They are a burden on patients and their caregivers and may be very disruptive to the patients' lives. They may progress to prolonged seizures or status epilepticus if they are not aborted as soon as possible. However, their definition, recognition, and classification still suffer from a lack of consensus among healthcare professionals in the field. This review aims to shed light on various aspects of seizure clusters with particular attention to their treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boulenouar Mesraoua
- Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar.,Weill Cornell Medical College, Doha, Qatar
| | - Bassel Abou-Khalil
- Department of Neurology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | | | - Gayane Melikyan
- Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar.,Weill Cornell Medical College, Doha, Qatar
| | - Hassan Al Hail
- Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar.,Weill Cornell Medical College, Doha, Qatar
| | - Ali A Asadi-Pooya
- Epilepsy Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.,Jefferson Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Department of Neurology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Dean P, O'Hara K, Brooks L, Shinnar R, Bougher G, Santilli N. Managing Acute Seizures: New Rescue Delivery Option and Resources to Assist School Nurses. NASN Sch Nurse 2021; 36:346-354. [PMID: 34189971 PMCID: PMC8586177 DOI: 10.1177/1942602x211026333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Approximately 470,000 children and adolescents in the United States have epilepsy, 30% of whom experience seizures despite antiseizure drug regimens. School nurses, teachers, caregivers, and parents play integral roles in implementing a care plan that avoids triggers, recognizes signs, and provides supportive care—ideally, guided by a patient-specific seizure action plan, which may include the use of rescue medication. Benzodiazepines are the mainstay of seizure rescue medication; for decades, rectally administered diazepam was the only approved rescue medication for seizure clusters outside the hospital setting. However, rectal administration has limitations that could delay treatment (e.g., social acceptability, removal of clothing, positioning). More recently, intranasal midazolam (for patients ≥12 years) and intranasal diazepam (for patients ≥6 years) were approved for this indication. Training and education regarding newer forms of rescue medication should improve confidence in the ability to treat seizures in school with the goal of increasing the safety of students with epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Dean
- Epilepsy Program Specialist, Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Nicklaus Children's Hospital, Miami, FL
| | - Kathryn O'Hara
- Clinical Research Nurse, Department of Neurology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA
| | - Lai Brooks
- Senior Director of the Neuroscience Institute, Le Bonheur Children's Hospital, Memphis, TN
| | | | - Genei Bougher
- Vice President/Subinvestigator, Northwest Florida Clinical Research Group, LLC, Gulf Breeze, FL
| | - Nancy Santilli
- Global Managing Director, Human Care Systems, Boston, MA
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