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Noble AJ, Lane S, Lloyd P, Morris B, Bell S, Shillito T, Dixon P, Marson AG. 'Blue-lighting' seizure-related needs in care homes: a retrospective analysis of ambulance call-outs for seizures in North West England (2014-2021), their management and costs, with community comparisons. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e089126. [PMID: 39537564 PMCID: PMC11574507 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2024-089126] [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] [Indexed: 11/16/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES With a projected rise in care home residency and the disproportionate impact of epilepsy and seizures on older adults, understanding seizure-related needs in this population is crucial. Data silos and inconsistent recording of residence status make this challenging. We thus leveraged ambulance data to investigate seizure call-out incidence, characteristics, management and costs in care homes compared with the wider community. DESIGN Retrospective analysis of dispatch data from a regional English ambulance service over four 9-month periods between 2014/2015 and 2021/2022. Suspected seizures in adults (≥16 years) were identified, with data on location, patient age, severity and management extracted. Incidence rates, trends over time and case characteristics were compared. Costs of ambulance response were estimated, and factors influencing emergency department (ED) conveyance were analysed using logistic regression. SETTING North West Ambulance Service National Health Service Trust, serving an adult population of ~5.5 million. PARTICIPANTS Dispatch data for 98 752 suspected seizure cases. RESULTS Care homes, accommodating ~0.8% of the regional population, accounted for 7.2% of seizure call-outs. Incidence was higher in care homes than the wider community (55.71 vs 5.97 per 1000 person/year in 2021/2022) and increased over time. Care home cases peaked around 8:00-9:00. Despite similar or lower severity, they had a higher ED conveyance rate (78.3% vs 70.6%). Conveyance likelihood was influenced by factors beyond severity: reduced in homes specialising in learning disabilities (adjusted OR=0.649) and increased in homes with nursing provision (adjusted OR=1.226). Care homes accounted for 7.26% of the £24 million cost. CONCLUSIONS This study highlights the growing seizure-related needs in care homes. Despite similar severity, most cases result in ED conveyance. Future research should examine the appropriateness and implications of these transfers, ensuring specialist services support the care home population effectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam J Noble
- Department of Public Health, Policy and Systems, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Steven Lane
- Health Data Science, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | | | - Beth Morris
- Department of Public Health, Policy and Systems, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Steve Bell
- Medical Directorate, North West Ambulance Service NHS Trust, Bolton, UK
| | | | - Pete Dixon
- Department of Primary Care and Mental Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Anthony Guy Marson
- Molecular and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
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Naji Y, Hrouch W, Laadami S, Adali N. Anti-seizure medication prescription preferences: a Moroccan multicenter study. Front Neurol 2024; 15:1435075. [PMID: 39246605 PMCID: PMC11378524 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2024.1435075] [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] [Received: 05/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 09/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The management of epilepsy is mainly based on antiseizure medications (ASMs). More than 20 ASMs have been introduced in clinical practice, providing a multitude of prescription choices. To date, there are no published data on the trends in ASMs prescriptions in Morocco. Therefore, we conducted a survey among practicing neurologists in seven tertiary referral hospitals in Morocco to study the current ASMs prescription preferences and their modifying factors. Methods Our descriptive and analytical cross-sectional study was based on a survey sent between January and April 2022 to neurologists practicing in seven tertiary referral hospitals in Morocco. Information regarding the prescription of ASMs was collected using an exploitation form and analyzed using the SPSS version 13 software. Results Based on questionnaire responses, our results showed that Valproic acid (96.3%) and Lamotrigine (59.8%) were the two most prescribed ASMs for generalized seizure types. For focal seizure types, Carbamazepine (98.8%) and Levetiracetam (34.1%) were the most commonly prescribed drugs, whereas for combined focal and generalized seizure types, the combination of Valproic acid and Carbamazepine (38.55%) was the most prescribed. Phenobarbital was the most commonly prescribed ASM for status epilepticus (40.2%). These prescription preferences were mainly due to seizure types, cost, health insurance coverage, years of experience, and additional epileptology training (p < 0.05). Conclusion Our results show a shift in the prescription of ASMs in Morocco. Similar to many other countries, valproic acid and carbamazepine are considered the first-line treatments for generalized and focal seizure types. Some factors remain as major challenges in enhancing epilepsy management in Morocco.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yahya Naji
- "N.I.C.E." Research Team, "R.E.G.N.E." Research Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ibn Zohr University, Agadir, Morocco
- Neurology Department, Agadir University Hospital, Agadir, Morocco
| | - Wafa Hrouch
- "N.I.C.E." Research Team, "R.E.G.N.E." Research Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ibn Zohr University, Agadir, Morocco
- Neurology Department, Agadir University Hospital, Agadir, Morocco
| | - Sara Laadami
- "N.I.C.E." Research Team, "R.E.G.N.E." Research Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ibn Zohr University, Agadir, Morocco
- Neurology Department, Agadir University Hospital, Agadir, Morocco
| | - Nawal Adali
- "N.I.C.E." Research Team, "R.E.G.N.E." Research Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ibn Zohr University, Agadir, Morocco
- Neurology Department, Agadir University Hospital, Agadir, Morocco
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Shariff E, Nazish S, Shahid R, Zafar A, Yasawy ZM, AlKhaldi NA, AlJaafari D, Soltan NM, Alshamrani F, AlShurem M, Albakr AI, AlSulaiman F, Alameri R, Alabdali M. Outcomes and predictors of seizure recurrence in post-stroke epilepsy, a retrospective hospital-based study. Clin Neurol Neurosurg 2024; 239:108208. [PMID: 38432120 DOI: 10.1016/j.clineuro.2024.108208] [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: 11/16/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 02/25/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The occurrence of seizures following a stroke is a well-recognized complication associated with a significant increase in morbidity and mortality. Despite the numerous studies examining outcomes and risk factors related to post-stroke seizures (PSS), there remains a lack of clarity regarding the clinical characteristics, treatment, and PSS recurrence (PSSR) rates in patients experiencing their initial episode of PSS. PURPOSE This study aimed to determine the risk factors for developing recurrent seizures after first PSS and their effects on functional outcomes and mortality. METHODS All patients underwent an electroencephalography (EEG) and were monitored for a minimum of 24 months following the first PSS. The primary endpoint was the recurrence of seizures. Predictive factors for PSSR were determined by using the Cox-proportional hazards model, and the cumulative latency of recurrence at 90, 180, 360, and 720 days was estimated using Kaplan-Meier analysis. RESULTS Seizure recurred in 36.8% (39/106). Significant association of PSSR was noted with female gender, use of older anti-seizure medications (ASMs) (p<0.001), EEG findings as focal slow wave activity (p<0.001), Ictal epileptiform abnormalities (p=0.015), status epilepticus (p=0.015), and with severe disability (p=0.008). However, multivariate cox-proportional hazards model showed significant association of female gender (HR=3.28; 95% CI: 1.42-7.58; p=0.006). Hazard ratio (HR) was increased with older ASMs use, focal aware seizure types, Ictal EAs, and periodic discharges on EEG; though, statistically significant. CONCLUSION Factors such as the type of ASMs, EEG findings, and seizure type were significantly linked to PSSR. Female gender was the only independent predictor established. Additionally, significant functional decline was reported with recurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erum Shariff
- Department of Neurology, College of medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Saima Nazish
- Department of Neurology, College of medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rizwana Shahid
- Department of Neurology, College of medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Azra Zafar
- Department of Neurology, College of medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Zakia M Yasawy
- Department of Neurology, College of medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Norah A AlKhaldi
- Department of Neurology, College of medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Danah AlJaafari
- Department of Neurology, College of medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nehad M Soltan
- Department of Neurology, College of medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Foziah Alshamrani
- Department of Neurology, College of medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed AlShurem
- Department of Neurology, College of medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Aishah Ibrahim Albakr
- Department of Neurology, College of medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Feras AlSulaiman
- Department of Neurology, College of medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rana Alameri
- Department of Fundamentals Nursing, College of Nursing, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Majed Alabdali
- Department of Neurology, College of medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
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Gandelman-Marton R, Theitler J. Trends in enzyme-inducing antiseizure medication use: A retrospective analysis among adults with epilepsy. Epilepsy Behav 2024; 152:109662. [PMID: 38277853 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2024.109662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Revised: 01/20/2024] [Accepted: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 01/28/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Enzyme-inducing antiseizure medications (EIASMs) were associated with drug interactions and long-term adverse effects. Therefore, it was suggested that epilepsy treatment should be started with non-EIASMs, and in patients treated with EIASMs, replacement with non-EIASMs should be evaluated OBJECTIVE: To assess potent EIASM use among patients with epilepsy at their first visit in our epilepsy outpatient clinic. METHODS We retrospectively reviewed the computerized database and the medical records of all the patients who had their first visit in our outpatient epilepsy clinic during a 10-year period (2012-2021). Of 730 patients with ASM treated epilepsy, 243 (33%) were receiving potent EIASMs. RESULTS The annual potent EIASM use decreased from 35.1 % in 2012 to 11.8 % in 2021. Most of the patients who received potent EIASM had their first visit during 2012-2015 compared to the following years (56.8 % vs 43.2 %) (p = 0.0001). Patients with epilepsy receiving potent EIASMs were older (44.3 vs 34.7) (p = 0.0001), more likely men (60.9 % vs 47.2 %) (p = 0.001), with longer disease duration (13 vs 9.3 y) (p = 0.0001), higher rate of neuropsychiatric comorbidity (37 % vs 27.9 %) (p = 0.014), and were treated with more ASMs (1.6 vs 1.3) (p = 0.0001) compared to patients receiving non-EIASMs. CONCLUSIONS Potent EIASM use has been declining over the past decade. Additional efforts to further decrease EIASM use should be exerted among all patients with ASM-treated epilepsy, with emphasis on men with focal epilepsy and epilepsy duration > 10 years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Revital Gandelman-Marton
- Neurology Department, Shamir-Assaf Harofeh Medical Center, Zerifin, Israel; Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Israel.
| | - Jacques Theitler
- Neurology Department, Shamir-Assaf Harofeh Medical Center, Zerifin, Israel; Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Israel
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Wang R, Wang T, Han X, Chen M, Li S. Development of a physiologically based pharmacokinetic model for levetiracetam in patients with renal impairment to guide dose adjustment based on steady-state peak/trough concentrations. Xenobiotica 2024; 54:116-123. [PMID: 38344757 DOI: 10.1080/00498254.2024.2317888] [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: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
Levetiracetam may cause acute renal failure and myoclonic encephalopathy at high plasma levels, particularly in patients with renal impairment. The aim of this study was to develop a physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model to predict levetiracetam pharmacokinetics in Chinese adults with epilepsy and renal impairment and define appropriate levetiracetam dosing regimen.PBPK models for healthy subjects and epilepsy patients with renal impairment were developed, validated, and adapted. Furthermore, we predicted the steady-state trough and peak concentrations of levetiracetam in patients with renal impairment using the final PBPK model, thereby recommending appropriate levetiracetam dosing regimens for different renal function stages. The predicted maximum plasma concentration (Cmax), time to maximum concentration (Tmax), area under the plasma concentration-time curve (AUC) were in agreement (0.8 ≤ fold error ≤ 1.2) with the observed, and the fold error of the trough concentrations in end-stage renal disease (ESRD) was 0.77 - 1.22. The prediction simulations indicated that the recommended doses of 1000, 750, 500, and 500 mg twice daily for epilepsy patients with mild, moderate, severe renal impairment, and ESRD, respectively, were sufficient to achieve the target plasma concentration of levetiracetam.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rongrong Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, Medical Security Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Tianlin Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, Medical Security Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Xueliang Han
- Chinese PAP qinghai Hospital, Xining, People's Republic of China
| | - Mengli Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, Medical Security Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Shu Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Medical Security Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, People's Republic of China
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Kostev K, Doege C, Jacob L. Prevalence of and factors associated with the early prescription of antiseizure medications in adults newly diagnosed with epilepsy in Germany. Epilepsy Behav 2024; 152:109655. [PMID: 38271779 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2024.109655] [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: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 12/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is little information on prescription patterns of antiseizure medications (ASMs) during the early management of patients with epilepsy in Germany. Therefore, this study investigated the prevalence of and the factors associated with ASM prescription in patients newly diagnosed with epilepsy in this country. METHODS Adults diagnosed for the first time with epilepsy in one of 128 neurology practices in Germany between 2005 and 2021 were included (Disease Analyzer database, IQVIA). The prescription of ASMs was assessed within 30 days, six months, and 12 months of the diagnosis. Covariates were demographic factors, epilepsy sub-diagnoses, and co-diagnoses frequently associated with epilepsy. RESULTS This study included 55,962 participants (mean [SD] age 52.5 [20.0] years; 50.5 % men). The prevalence of ASM prescription ranged from 45.0 % within 30 days to 66.0 % within 12 months of the diagnosis. Men were less likely to receive ASMs within six and 12 months of epilepsy diagnosis than women. In addition, epilepsy sub-diagnoses of symptomatic, complex, or generalized nature were associated with increased odds of ASM prescription compared with epilepsy of unspecified nature. Finally, there was an inverse and significant association between multiple co-diagnoses (e.g., diabetes, mental and behavioral disorders due to use of alcohol, and traumatic brain injury) and ASM prescribing. CONCLUSIONS A substantial proportion of participants were prescribed ASMs in the year following epilepsy diagnosis, highlighting that the early prescription of ASMs was necessary for these patients. Further research is warranted to corroborate the present findings in other countries and settings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Corinna Doege
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Center of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Central Hospital Bremen, 28205 Bremen, Germany
| | - Louis Jacob
- AP-HP, Université Paris Cité, Lariboisière-Fernand Widal Hospital, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, 75010 Paris, France; Université Paris Cité, Inserm U1153, Epidemiology of Ageing and Neurodegenerative Diseases (EpiAgeing), 75010 Paris, France; Research and Development Unit, Parc Sanitari Sant Joan de Déu, CIBERSAM, ISCIII, Dr. Antoni Pujadas, 42, Sant Boi de Llobregat, 08830 Barcelona, Spain.
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Kim SJ, Wood S, Marquina C, Foster E, Bell JS, Ilomäki J. Shift from older- to newer-generation antiseizure medications in people with acute ischemic stroke in Australia: A population-based study. Epilepsia Open 2023; 8:1413-1424. [PMID: 37574594 PMCID: PMC10690710 DOI: 10.1002/epi4.12809] [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: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the trends in antiseizure medications (ASMs) use following ischemic stroke and to examine factors associated with use of newer- and older-generation ASMs. METHODS A retrospective cohort study was conducted using state-wide linked health datasets. Patients who were hospitalized with a first-ever ischemic stroke between 2013 and 2017 and were dispensed ASM within 12 months from discharge were included. Logistic regression was used to examine the predictors of receiving newer-generation ASMs. Generalized linear modeling was used to identify factors associated with ASM use after ischemic stroke. RESULTS Of 19 601 people hospitalized with a first-ever ischemic stroke, 989 were dispensed an ASM within 12 months from discharge. The most prevalent first ASMs were levetiracetam (38.0%), valproate (25.8%), and carbamazepine (10.3%). Most people were dispensed ASM monotherapy (86.9%). There was a shift toward the use of newer-generation ASMs between 2013 and 2017 (odds ratio [OR] 2.82, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.92-4.16). Metropolitan residents were more likely to be dispensed newer-generation ASMs as a first-line treatment (OR 1.79, 95% CI 1.31-2.45). People over 85 years (OR 0.38, 95% CI 0.23-0.64), with dementia (OR 0.35, 95% CI 0.19-0.63) and psychotic comorbidities (OR 0.29, 95% CI 0.09-0.96) were less likely to be dispensed newer-generation ASMs. Older age (coefficient [β] 0.23, P = 0.030), history of beta blocker use (β 0.17, P = 0.029), multiple ASMs (β 0.78, P < 0.001), and newer-generation ASM (β 0.23, P = 0.001) were associated with higher defined daily dose (DDD) of ASM whereas female sex and being married were associated with lower DDD. SIGNIFICANCE There has been a shift toward newer-generation ASMs for poststroke seizures and epilepsy. Concerningly, vulnerable patient groups were more likely to be dispensed older-generation ASMs. This may lead to unnecessary exposure to adverse events and drug-drug interactions. Further research is needed to evaluate comparative effectiveness and safety of newer- and older-generation ASMs in poststroke populations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Stephen Wood
- Centre for Medicine Use and SafetyMonash UniversityMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - Clara Marquina
- Centre for Medicine Use and SafetyMonash UniversityMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - Emma Foster
- Central Clinical SchoolMonash UniversityMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - J. Simon Bell
- Centre for Medicine Use and SafetyMonash UniversityMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - Jenni Ilomäki
- Centre for Medicine Use and SafetyMonash UniversityMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine Nursing and Health SciencesMonash UniversityMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
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Schousboe JT, Binkley N, Leslie WD. Liver enzyme inducing anticonvulsant drug use is associated with prevalent vertebral fracture. Osteoporos Int 2023; 34:1793-1798. [PMID: 37380883 DOI: 10.1007/s00198-023-06820-9] [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: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
Among those who use of liver-enzyme inducing anticonvulsant medication for more than 2 years, 27% have a prevalent vertebral fracture on vertebral fracture assessment (VFA) lateral spine imaging. VFA imaging at the time of bone densitometry may be appropriate for older individuals who are chronic users of these medications. PURPOSE It is unclear whether prevalent vertebral fractures are associated with use of anticonvulsant drugs, especially those that induce liver enzymes (LEI) that metabolize drugs and vitamin D. Our purpose was to estimate the prevalence of vertebral fracture on densitometric lateral spine images according to duration of prior anticonvulsant medication use. METHODS Our study population was 11,822 individuals (mean [sd] age 76.1 [6.8] years, 94% female) who had bone densitometry with VFA between 2010 and 2018. Cumulative prior exposure to LEI anticonvulsants (carbamazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin, valproic acid, n = 538), non-LEI anticonvulsants (clonazepam, gabapentin, levetiracetam, others, n = 2786), and other non-clonazepam benzodiazepines (n = 5082) was determined using linked pharmacy records. Prevalent vertebral fractures were identified on VFA images using the modified ABQ method. Logistic regression models were used to estimate the association of anticonvulsant drug exposure with prevalent vertebral fractures. RESULTS Prevalence of one or more vertebral fractures was 16.1% for the entire analytic cohort, and 27.0%, 19.0%, and 18.5% for those with ≥ 2 years of prior LEI anticonvulsant use, non-LEI anticonvulsant use, and other benzodiazepine use, respectively. Adjusted for multiple covariates, use of prior LEI anticonvulsant medication for ≥ 2 years was associated with prevalent fracture on VFA (OR 1.48 [95% CI 1.04, 2.10]). CONCLUSION LEI anticonvulsant use for ≥ 2 years is associated with higher vertebral fracture prevalence. Lateral spine VFA imaging at the time of bone densitometry may be appropriate for older individuals who have used LEI anticonvulsant medications for ≥ 2 years.
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Affiliation(s)
- John T Schousboe
- Park Nicollet Clinic and HealthPartners Institute, Minneapolis, MN, USA.
- Division of Health Policy and Management, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA.
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Celdran de Castro A, Nascimento FA, Beltran-Corbellini Á, Toledano R, Garcia-Morales I, Gil-Nagel A, Aledo-Serrano Á. Levetiracetam, from broad-spectrum use to precision prescription: A narrative review and expert opinion. Seizure 2023; 107:121-131. [PMID: 37023625 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2023.03.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 03/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 04/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Levetiracetam (LEV) is an antiseizure medication (ASM) whose mechanism of action involves the modulation of neurotransmitters release through binding to the synaptic vesicle glycoprotein 2A. It is a broad-spectrum ASM displaying favorable pharmacokinetic and tolerability profiles. Since its introduction in 1999, it has been widely prescribed, becoming the first-line treatment for numerous epilepsy syndromes and clinical scenarios. However, this might have resulted in overuse. Increasing evidence, including the recently published SANAD II trials, suggests that other ASMs are reasonable therapeutic options for generalized and focal epilepsies. Not infrequently, these ASMs show better safety and effectiveness profiles compared to LEV (partially due to the latter's well-known cognitive and behavioral adverse effects, present in up to 20% of patients). Moreover, it has been shown that the underlying etiology of epilepsy is significantly linked to ASMs response in particular scenarios, highlighting the importance of an etiology-based ASM choice. In the case of LEV, it has demonstrated an optimal effectiveness in Alzheimer's disease, Down syndrome, and PCDH19-related epilepsies whereas, in other etiologies such as malformations of cortical development, it may show negligible effects. This narrative review analyzes the current evidence related to the use of LEV for the treatment of seizures. Illustrative clinical scenarios and practical decision-making approaches are also addressed, therefore aiming to define a rational use of this ASM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Celdran de Castro
- Epilepsy Program, Neurology Department, Ruber Internacional Hospital, Madrid, Spain; Epilepsy Unit, Neurology Department, La Fe University and Polytechnic Hospital, Valencia, Spain
| | - Fábio A Nascimento
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | | | - Rafael Toledano
- Epilepsy Program, Neurology Department, Ruber Internacional Hospital, Madrid, Spain; Epilepsy Unit, Neurology Department, Ramon y Cajal University Hospital, Madrid, Spain
| | - Irene Garcia-Morales
- Epilepsy Program, Neurology Department, Ruber Internacional Hospital, Madrid, Spain; Epilepsy Unit, Neurology Department, Clínico San Carlos University Hospital, Madrid, Spain
| | - Antonio Gil-Nagel
- Epilepsy Program, Neurology Department, Ruber Internacional Hospital, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ángel Aledo-Serrano
- Epilepsy Program, Neurology Department, Ruber Internacional Hospital, Madrid, Spain; Epilepsy and Neurogenetics Program, Neuroscience Institute, Vithas Madrid La Milagrosa University Hospital, Madrid, Spain.
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Belete D, Jacobs BM, Simonet C, Bestwick JP, Waters S, Marshall CR, Dobson R, Noyce AJ. Association Between Antiepileptic Drugs and Incident Parkinson Disease. JAMA Neurol 2023; 80:183-187. [PMID: 36574240 PMCID: PMC9857018 DOI: 10.1001/jamaneurol.2022.4699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Importance Recent studies have highlighted an association between epilepsy and Parkinson disease (PD). The role of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) has not been explored. Objective To investigate the association between AEDs and incident PD. Design, Setting, and Participants This nested case-control study started collecting data from the UK Biobank (UKB) in 2006, and data were extracted on June 30, 2021. Individuals with linked primary care prescription data were included. Cases were defined as individuals with a Hospital Episode Statistics (HES)-coded diagnosis of PD. Controls were matched 6:1 for age, sex, race and ethnicity, and socioeconomic status. Prescription records were searched for AEDs prescribed prior to diagnosis of PD. The UKB is a longitudinal cohort study with more than 500 000 participants; 45% of individuals in the UKB have linked primary care prescription data. Participants living in the UK aged between 40 and 69 years were recruited to the UKB between 2006 and 2010. All participants with UKB-linked primary care prescription data (n = 222 106) were eligible for enrollment in the study. Individuals with only a self-reported PD diagnosis or missing data for the matching variables were excluded. In total, 1477 individuals were excluded; 49 were excluded due to having only self-reported PD, and 1428 were excluded due to missing data. Exposures Exposure to AEDs (carbamazepine, lamotrigine, levetiracetam, and sodium valproate) was defined using routinely collected prescription data derived from primary care. Main Outcomes and Measures Odds ratios and 95% CIs were calculated using adjusted logistic regression models for individuals prescribed AEDs before the first date of HES-coded diagnosis of PD. Results In this case-control study, there were 1433 individuals with an HES-coded PD diagnosis (cases) and 8598 controls in the analysis. Of the 1433 individuals, 873 (60.9%) were male, 1397 (97.5%) had their race and ethnicity recorded as White, and their median age was 71 years (IQR, 65-75 years). An association was found between AED prescriptions and incident PD (odds ratio, 1.80; 95% CI, 1.35-2.40). There was a trend for a greater number of prescription issues and multiple AEDs being associated with a greater risk of PD. Conclusions and Relevance This study, the first to systematically look at PD risk in individuals prescribed the most common AEDs, to our knowledge, found evidence of an association between AEDs and incident PD. With the recent literature demonstrating an association between epilepsy and PD, this study provides further insights.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Belete
- Preventive Neurology Unit, Wolfson Institute of Population Health, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Benjamin M. Jacobs
- Preventive Neurology Unit, Wolfson Institute of Population Health, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Neurology, Royal London Hospital, Barts Health NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Cristina Simonet
- Preventive Neurology Unit, Wolfson Institute of Population Health, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jonathan P. Bestwick
- Preventive Neurology Unit, Wolfson Institute of Population Health, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Sheena Waters
- Preventive Neurology Unit, Wolfson Institute of Population Health, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Charles R. Marshall
- Preventive Neurology Unit, Wolfson Institute of Population Health, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Neurology, Royal London Hospital, Barts Health NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ruth Dobson
- Preventive Neurology Unit, Wolfson Institute of Population Health, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Neurology, Royal London Hospital, Barts Health NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Alastair J. Noyce
- Preventive Neurology Unit, Wolfson Institute of Population Health, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Neurology, Royal London Hospital, Barts Health NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
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11
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Hosny H, Elfayoumy N, Adly M, Abdelghany H. Genetic generalized epilepsy: factors associated with drug resistance polytherapy. THE EGYPTIAN JOURNAL OF NEUROLOGY, PSYCHIATRY AND NEUROSURGERY 2023. [DOI: 10.1186/s41983-022-00604-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Different studies investigating generalized genetic epilepsy (GGE) have shown that achieving 5 years of remission, early seizure remission, and needing antiseizure medication (ASM) monotherapy may predict favorable long-term outcomes.
Results
This is a retrospective analytical cohort study. Records of patients with GGE diagnoses at a large epilepsy center in Cairo served as the data source. 630 patients (297 male patients (47.1%) and 333 female (52.9%)) were included, their median onset age was 13 years. The follow-up period of this study was at least 4 years. 418 patients (66.1%) were early remitters, 160 patients (25.4%) were late remitters, and 52 patients (8.3%) were intractable. In addition, 367 patients (58.3%) needed a single ASM to achieve a maximum remission period (monotherapy group), while 263 patients (41.7%) needed ASM polytherapy. Stepwise regression analysis revealed that absence seizures, clusters of seizures, seizure frequency before treatment, and dose of sodium valproate (VPA) until the first remission were independent predictors for polytherapy. Moreover, absence seizures, seizure frequency before treatment, VPA dose, and catamenial seizures in females were independent predictors of intractability.
Conclusion
The majority of GGE have a favorable outcome, some clinical features could predict the need for polytherapy and failure of remission on treatment.
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Janmohamed M, Hakeem H, Ooi S, Hakami S, Vu L, Perucca P, O'Brien TJ, Antonic-Baker A, Chen Z, Kwan P. Treatment Outcomes of Newly Diagnosed Epilepsy: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. CNS Drugs 2023; 37:13-30. [PMID: 36542274 DOI: 10.1007/s40263-022-00979-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Understanding the multi-faceted treatment outcomes of newly diagnosed epilepsy is critical for developing rational therapeutic strategies. A meta-analysis was conducted to derive pooled estimates of a range of seizure outcomes in children and adults with newly diagnosed epilepsy commenced on antiseizure medication treatment, and to identify factors associated with different outcomes. METHODS PubMed/EMBASE were screened for eligible articles between 1 January, 1995 and 1 May, 2021 to include unselected cohort studies with a ≥ 12-month follow-up of seizure outcomes. Proportions of patients seizure free at different follow-up timepoints and their characteristics at the study population level were extracted. The patients were group-wise aggregated using a random-effects model. Primary outcomes were proportions of patients with cumulative 1-year seizure freedom (C1YSF), and 1-year and 5-year terminal seizure freedom (T1YSF and T5YSF). Secondary outcomes included the proportions of patients with early sustained seizure freedom, drug-resistant epilepsy and seizure-free off antiseizure medication at the last follow-up (off antiseizure medications). A separate random-effects meta-analysis was performed for nine predictors of importance. RESULTS In total, 39 cohorts (total n = 21,139) met eligibility criteria. They included 15 predominantly adult cohorts (n = 12,024), 19 children (n = 6569), and 5 of mixed-age groups (n = 2546). The pooled C1YSF was 79% (95% confidence interval [CI] 74-83). T1YSF was 68% (95% CI 63-72) and T5YSF was 69% (95% CI 62-75). Children had higher C1YSF (85% vs 68%, p < 0.001) and T1YSF than adult cohorts (74% vs 61%, p = 0.007). For secondary outcomes, 33% (95% CI 27-39) of patients achieved early sustained seizure freedom, 17% (95% CI 13-21) developed drug resistance, and 39% (95% CI 30-50) were off antiseizure medications at the last follow-up. Studies with a longer follow-up duration correlated with higher C1YSF (p < 0.001) and being off antiseizure medications (p = 0.045). Outcomes were not associated with study design (prospective vs retrospective), cohort size, publication year, or the earliest date of recruitment. Predictors of importance in newly diagnosed epilepsy include etiology, epilepsy type, abnormal diagnostics (neuroimaging, examination, and electroencephalogram findings), number of seizure types, and pre-treatment seizure burden. CONCLUSIONS Seizure freedom is achieved with currently available antiseizure medications in most patients with newly diagnosed epilepsy, yet this is often not immediate, may not be sustainable, and has not improved over recent decades. Symptomatic etiology, abnormal neuro-diagnostics, and increased pre-treatment seizure burden and seizure types are important predictors for unfavorable outcomes in newly diagnosed epilepsy. The study findings may be used as a quantitative benchmark on the efficacy of future antiseizure medication therapy for this patient population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mubeen Janmohamed
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, The Alfred Centre, Monash University, Level 6, 99 Commercial Road, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia. .,Department of Neurology, Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
| | - Haris Hakeem
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, The Alfred Centre, Monash University, Level 6, 99 Commercial Road, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia.,Department of Neurology, Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Suyi Ooi
- Department of Neurology, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Suhailah Hakami
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, The Alfred Centre, Monash University, Level 6, 99 Commercial Road, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
| | - Lily Vu
- Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Piero Perucca
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, The Alfred Centre, Monash University, Level 6, 99 Commercial Road, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia.,Department of Neurology, Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Department of Neurology, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Bladin-Berkovic Comprehensive Epilepsy Program, Austin Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Terence J O'Brien
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, The Alfred Centre, Monash University, Level 6, 99 Commercial Road, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia.,Department of Neurology, Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Department of Neurology, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Ana Antonic-Baker
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, The Alfred Centre, Monash University, Level 6, 99 Commercial Road, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
| | - Zhibin Chen
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, The Alfred Centre, Monash University, Level 6, 99 Commercial Road, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia.,Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Patrick Kwan
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, The Alfred Centre, Monash University, Level 6, 99 Commercial Road, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia.,Department of Neurology, Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Department of Neurology, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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13
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Prescription trends in anti-seizure medications for adult patients with epilepsy in Japan: A retrospective cohort study using the database of health insurance claims between 2015 and 2019. Epilepsy Behav 2022; 134:108841. [PMID: 35901657 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2022.108841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Revised: 06/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate whether newer anti-seizure medications (ASMs) are widely prescribed for a range of adult patients in Japan, including patients with previously and newly diagnosed epilepsy, or with focal and generalized epilepsies. METHODS A retrospective cohort study was conducted using the Japanese insurance claims database including 8.4 million people to identify adults (≥16 years of age) with epilepsy diagnosis code identified between January 2015 and December 2018. Patients were included in the prevalent population if epilepsy was already diagnosed at baseline, and in the incident population if prior baseline data for at least 12 months included no epilepsy diagnosis code or ASM prescription. Patients were followed up from the month when the initial oral ASM was prescribed for up to 4 years until the end of 2019 as long as at least one ASM was prescribed. Proportions of prescribed oral ASMs were analyzed by population with epilepsy (prevalent vs. incident) and classification (focal vs. generalized). Anti-seizure medications were classified into older vs. newer ASMs according to the date of approval before and after 1990, respectively. RESULTS A total of 24,691 patients fulfilled the eligibility criteria for the analysis. Of these, 21,046 and 3,645 were included in the prevalent and incident populations, respectively. The proportion of older ASMs significantly decreased, whereas the proportion of newer ASMs significantly increased (p < 0.0001) during the study period. This trend was more apparent in the population with incident epilepsy than in that with prevalent epilepsy, and was also apparent in the subgroup of focal epilepsy, but not in that of generalized epilepsy. Levetiracetam was the most frequently prescribed of the newer ASMs. CONCLUSION Newer ASMs became more widely prescribed throughout the study period in populations with both prevalent and incident epilepsies, as well as the subpopulation with focal epilepsy. The advantages of newer ASMs such as better safety profiles may have led to the increasing proportions of prescriptions and newer ASMs may increase the treatment options for patients.
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14
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Beau-Lejdstrom R, Hong LS, Garcia de Albeniz X, Floricel F, Lorenzen J, Bonfitto F, Kalilani L, Loesch C, Luscombe G, Perez-Gutthann S, Mottet I, Foskett N. Incidence of Acute Renal Failure in Patients Using Levetiracetam Versus Other Antiseizure Medications: A Voluntary Post-Authorization Safety Study. Drug Saf 2022; 45:781-790. [PMID: 35761158 DOI: 10.1007/s40264-022-01193-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Acute kidney injury is an expected adverse drug reaction listed in the European Union (EU) Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC) for levetiracetam, one of the most widely used modern antiseizure medications (ASMs). OBJECTIVE We conducted a voluntary post-authorization safety study to characterize the rate of acute renal failure (ARF) in patients exposed to levetiracetam versus other ASMs. METHODS New users of ASMs without prior renal dysfunction were identified and followed for 30 days in the IBM® MarketScan® database (USA, January 2008-December 2017). ARF was defined as a diagnosis on inpatient or emergency department claims. We estimated adjusted incidence rates, incidence rate ratios (IRRs), and incidence rate differences (IRDs) of ARF in patients initiating levetiracetam versus other ASMs. RESULTS Overall, 110,336 patients were eligible for the monotherapy cohort and 96,215 were eligible for the polytherapy cohort. The overall crude rate of ARF following a new ASM was 6.0 and 6.5 per 10,000 patients for the 'monotherapy' and 'polytherapy' cohorts, respectively, in the first 30 days after the index date. In the monotherapy cohort, the IRR for ARF was 1.37 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.80-2.34) and the corresponding IRD was 2.0 (95% CI - 1.12 to 5.12) additional ARFs per 10,000 patient-months. In the polytherapy cohort, the adjusted IRR for ARF was 0.94 (95% CI 0.51-1.74) and the corresponding IRD was - 0.42 cases per 10,000 patient-months (95% CI - 4.01 to 3.17). CONCLUSIONS The rate of ARFs in ASM new users was very low. In patients without prior ASMs, the estimated difference in risk of ARF associated with initiation of levetiracetam versus initiation of other ASMs was small, with 95% CIs compatible with small protective or harmful effects. In patients receiving polytherapy, the difference was compatible with the null and the 95% CI with small protective or harmful effects.
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15
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Villamar MF, Sarkis RA, Pennell P, Kohane I, Beaulieu-Jones BK. Severity of Epilepsy and Response to Antiseizure Medications in Individuals with Multiple Sclerosis: Analysis of a Real-World Dataset. Neurol Clin Pract 2022; 12:e49-e57. [DOI: 10.1212/cpj.0000000000001178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACTBackground and objectives:Epilepsy is an important comorbidity that affects outcomes for people with multiple sclerosis (MS). However, it is unclear if seizure severity among individuals with coexistence of multiple sclerosis and epilepsy (MS+E) is higher than in those with other focal epilepsies. Our goal was to compare the overall severity of epilepsy in individuals with MS+E versus those with focal epilepsy without MS (E-MS) as defined by seizure-related healthcare utilization, frequency and duration of status epilepticus, and frequency of antiseizure medication (ASM) regimen changes.Methods:In this hypothesis-generating study, we analyzed a U.S. commercial nationwide de-identified claims dataset with > 86 million individuals between 1/1/2008 and 8/31/2019. Using validated algorithms, we identified adults with E-MS and those with MS+E. We compared the number and length of seizure-related hospital admissions, the number of claims and unique days with claims for status epilepticus, and the rates of ASM regimen changes between the MS+E and the E-MS groups.Results:During the study period, 66,708 individuals with E-MS and 537 with MS+E had ≥ 2 years of coverage after their initial diagnosis of epilepsy. There was no difference between the MS+E and E-MS groups in the percentage of individuals admitted for seizures and/or status epilepticus. However, MS+E with seizure-related admissions had more admissions and longer hospital stays than those with E-MS. MS+E who experienced status epilepticus had more unique days with status epilepticus claims compared to E-MS. MS+E were more likely to have ASM regimen changes in Year 2 after the initial diagnosis of epilepsy and had more ASM changes during Year 2 compared to E-MS. Among individuals with MS+E, there were no differences in our measures of seizure severity for those treated with sodium channel blockers/modulators versus other ASM classes.Discussion:This study supports the notion that individuals with MS+E can have more severe epilepsy than those with E-MS. Seizure severity among individuals with MS+E treated with sodium-channel blockers/modulators versus other ASM classes shows no significant differences.Classification of evidence:This study provides Class III evidence that individuals with MS+E can have more severe epilepsy than those with E-MS.
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16
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Noble AJ, Haddad S, Coleman N, Marson AG. Worth the paper they're printed on? Findings from an independent evaluation of how understandable patient information leaflets for antiseizure medications are. Epilepsia 2022; 63:2130-2143. [PMID: 35560228 PMCID: PMC9544238 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Revised: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) is an authoritative document that all people with epilepsy (PWE) in the European Union receive when prescribed anti-seizure medication (ASM). We undertook the first independent, comprehensive assessment to determine how understandable they are. Regulators state that when patients are asked comprehension questions about them, ≥80% should answer correctly. Also recommended PILs have a maximum reading requirement of US Grade 8. METHODS Study 1: Obtained 140 current ASM PILs written in English. 'Readability' assessed using 4 tests, with and without adjustment for influence of familiar, polysyllabic words. 179 online materials on epilepsy also assessed. Study 2: Two PILs from Study 1 randomly selected (Pregabalin Focus; Inovelon) and shown to 35 people from UK epilepsy population. Their comprehension was assessed. Study 3: To understand whether student population provides accessible alternative population for future examination of ASM PILs, Study 3 was completed. Used same methods as Study 2 but participants were 262 UK university students. RESULTS Study 1: No PIL had a reading level of Grade 8. Median was 11. Adjusting for context, the PILs were still at Grade 10.5. PILs for branded ASMs were most readable. PILs were no more readable than (unregulated) online materials. Study 2: Users struggled to comprehend the PILs key messages. The 8 questions asked about pregabalin were typically answered correctly by 54%. For Inovelon it was 62%. Study 3: Most student participants comprehend the PILs key messages. The questions about Inovelon were answered correctly by 90%; for pregabalin it was 86%. SIGNIFICANCE This is the first independent and comprehensive examination of ASM PILs. Found PILs being used fail to meet recommendations and regulatory requirements and risk not being understandable to substantial proportion of users. In finding that people from epilepsy population differ markedly in comprehension of PILs compared to students, study highlights importance of completing user testing with the target population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam J Noble
- Department of Public Health, Policy and Systems, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Sarah Haddad
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Niamh Coleman
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Anthony G Marson
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Liverpool., UK
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Larsson D, Baftiu A, Johannessen Landmark C, von Euler M, Kumlien E, Åsberg S, Zelano J. Association Between Antiseizure Drug Monotherapy and Mortality for Patients With Poststroke Epilepsy. JAMA Neurol 2022; 79:169-175. [PMID: 34902006 PMCID: PMC8669603 DOI: 10.1001/jamaneurol.2021.4584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Importance There is little evidence to guide the choice of antiseizure medication (ASM) for patients with poststroke epilepsy. Theoretical concerns about detrimental effects of ASMs on survival exist. Enzyme-inducing drugs could interfere with secondary stroke prevention. The US Food and Drug Administration recently issued a safety announcement about the potential proarrhythmic properties of lamotrigine. Objective To investigate whether mortality varies with specific ASMs among patients with poststroke epilepsy. Design, Setting, and Participants A cohort study was conducted using individual-level data from linked registers on all adults in Sweden with acute stroke from July 1, 2005, to December 31, 2010, and subsequent onset of epilepsy before December 31, 2014. A total of 2577 patients receiving continuous ASM monotherapy were eligible for the study. Data were analyzed between May 27, 2019, and April 8, 2021. Exposures The dispensed ASM (Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical code N03A) determined exposure status, and the first dispensation date marked the start of treatment. Main Outcomes and Measures The primary outcome, all-cause death, was analyzed using Cox proportional hazards regression with carbamazepine as the reference. Cardiovascular death (International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, Tenth Revision codes I0-I99 as the underlying cause) was assessed using Fine-Gray competing risk regression models. Results A total of 2577 patients (1400 men [54%]; median age, 78 years [IQR, 69-85 years]) were included. The adjusted hazard ratio of all-cause death compared with carbamazepine was 0.72 (95% CI, 0.60-0.86) for lamotrigine, 0.96 (95% CI, 0.80-1.15) for levetiracetam, 1.40 (95% CI, 1.23-1.59) for valproic acid, 1.16 (95% CI, 0.88-1.51) for phenytoin, and 1.16 (95% CI, 0.81-1.66) for oxcarbazepine. The adjusted hazard ratio of cardiovascular death compared with carbamazepine was 0.76 (95% CI, 0.61-0.95) for lamotrigine, 0.77 (95% CI, 0.60-0.99) for levetiracetam, 1.40 (95% CI, 1.19-1.64) for valproic acid, 1.02 (95% CI, 0.71-1.47) for phenytoin, and 0.71 (95% CI, 0.42-1.18) for oxcarbazepine. Conclusions and Relevance This cohort study's findings suggest differences in survival between patients treated with different ASMs for poststroke epilepsy. Patients receiving lamotrigine monotherapy had significantly lower mortality compared with those receiving carbamazepine. The opposite applied to patients prescribed valproic acid, who had a higher risk of cardiovascular and all-cause death. Levetiracetam was associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular death compared with carbamazepine, but there was no significant difference in overall mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Larsson
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden,Department of Neurology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden,Wallenberg Centre for Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Arton Baftiu
- Program for Pharmacy, Oslo Metropolitan University, Oslo, Norway
| | - Cecilie Johannessen Landmark
- Program for Pharmacy, Oslo Metropolitan University, Oslo, Norway,The National Center for Epilepsy, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway,Section for Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Mia von Euler
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
| | - Eva Kumlien
- Department of Neuroscience, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Signild Åsberg
- Department of Neuroscience, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Johan Zelano
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden,Department of Neurology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden,Wallenberg Centre for Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
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18
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Liang CY, Chiang KL, Hsieh LP, Chien LN. Prescription patterns and dosages of antiepileptic drugs in prevalent patients with epilepsy in Taiwan: A nationwide retrospective cross-sectional study. Epilepsy Behav 2022; 126:108450. [PMID: 34864625 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2021.108450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Revised: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the prescription patterns and prescribed daily dose (PDD)/defined daily dose (DDD) ratios of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) in prevalent patients with epilepsy in Taiwan. MATERIALS AND METHODS A nationwide retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted for prevalent patients with epilepsy in 2016 using the Taiwanese National Health Insurance Research Database. The prescription records of AEDs of all prevalent patients with epilepsy were retrieved. The mean PDDs and PDD/DDD ratios of AEDs in adult patients were obtained to evaluate dosing adequacy. A chi-square test and two-sample t test were used to analyze the differences in AED prescription patterns and dosages, respectively, among patients with different ages, sexes, comorbidities, and therapeutic approaches. RESULTS A total of 118,937 prevalent patients with epilepsy were enrolled. The predominant therapeutic approach was monotherapy, especially in the elder adults, accounting for 82.9% of elder adult patients with epilepsy. The proportion of AED monotherapy was higher in patients with dementia (78.9%) and stroke (80.6%). The top three antiepileptic monotherapies were valproic acid (28.7%), levetiracetam (19.1%), and phenytoin (16.9%); however, oxcarbazepine (22.8%) was substituted for carbamazepine (3.9%) as monotherapy for patients aged 0-17 years. Among adult patients with epilepsy, the PDD/DDD ratio of each AED in monotherapy was less than 1.00. The mean PDD of each AED was higher in polytherapy than in monotherapy (p < 0.01), except for lacosamide. The mean PDDs of all evaluated AEDs in monotherapy were lower in elder adult patients than in younger adult patients, most of which reached statistical significance (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS In Taiwan, valproic acid was the most prescribed AED for prevalent patients with epilepsy. The mean PDDs of most AEDs were lower than the DDDs developed by the World Health Organization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun-Yu Liang
- Department of Neurology, Yumin Medical Corporation Yumin Hospital, No. 200, Sec. 1, Taiping Rd., Caotun Township, Nantou County 542007, Taiwan; Department of Neurology, Changhua Christian Hospital, No. 135, Nanxiao St., Changhua City, Changhua County 500209, Taiwan.
| | - Kuo-Liang Chiang
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Kuang-Tien General Hospital, No. 117, Shatian Rd., Shalu Dist., Taichung City 433401, Taiwan
| | - Liang-Po Hsieh
- Department of Neurology, Cheng-Ching Hospital, No. 966, Sec. 4, Taiwan Blvd., Xitun Dist., Taichung City 407211, Taiwan.
| | - Li-Nien Chien
- School of Health Care Administration, College of Management, Taipei Medical University, No. 250, Wuxing St., Xinyi Dist., Taipei 110301, Taiwan.
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Kang KW, Lee H, Shin JY, Moon HJ, Lee SY. Trends in Prescribing of Antiseizure Medications in South Korea: Real-World Evidence for Treated Patients With Epilepsy. J Clin Neurol 2022; 18:179-193. [PMID: 35274836 PMCID: PMC8926764 DOI: 10.3988/jcn.2022.18.2.179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2021] [Revised: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Purpose We investigated the trends in the prescribing of antiseizure medication (ASM) over a 9-year period, and provide real-world data regarding ASM prescriptions of patients with epilepsy in South Korea. Methods This study used data in the Korean National Health Information Database for the period from 2009 to 2017. We included 18 oral ASMs, which were classified into older and newer ASMs based on them first becoming available on the market before or after 1991, respectively. The annual trends in ASM prescriptions were plotted over the 9-year study period, and changes in these trends were evaluated as average annual percentage changes (AAPCs) using Poisson regression. Age- and sex-stratified analyses were also conducted. Results Overall, the proportion of prescriptions involving polytherapy with three or more ASMs increased from 10.08% in 2009 to 10.99% in 2017 (AAPC=0.9%, p<0.001) over the 9-year study period. Among monotherapies, although valproate (VPA) was the most frequently prescribed ASM, the prescription rate of levetiracetam (LEV) steadily increased regardless of age and sex over the study period. The monotherapy prescription trends differed depending on age and sex. In the five most frequently used ASM combination regimens, the prescription rates of VPA/LEV, LEV/oxcarbazepine, and LEV/lamotrigine regimens showed increasing tendencies. In contrast, prescription rates for all combined regimens of older ASMs declined over time in all age groups. Conclusions This is the first epidemiological study of the changes in prescription trends for ASM in South Korea based on nationwide data from 2009 to 2017. We found progressive increases in the use of newer ASMs for both monotherapy and duotherapy, and for polytherapy with three or more ASMs over the 9-year study period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyung Wook Kang
- Department of Neurology, Chonnam National University Hospital, Gwangju, Korea
| | - Hyesung Lee
- School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, Korea
- Department of Biohealth Regulatory Science, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, Korea
| | - Ju-Young Shin
- School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, Korea
- Department of Biohealth Regulatory Science, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, Korea
- Samsung Advanced Institute for Health Sciences & Technology (SAIHST), Sungkyunkwan University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hye-Jin Moon
- Department of Neurology, Soonchunhyang University Bucheon Hospital, Bucheon, Korea
| | - Seo-Young Lee
- Department of Neurology, Kangwon National University School of Medicine, Chuncheon, Korea
- Medical Bigdata Convergence, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, Korea
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Marson AG, Burnside G, Appleton R, Smith D, Leach JP, Sills G, Tudur-Smith C, Plumpton CO, Hughes DA, Williamson PR, Baker G, Balabanova S, Taylor C, Brown R, Hindley D, Howell S, Maguire M, Mohanraj R, Smith PE. Lamotrigine versus levetiracetam or zonisamide for focal epilepsy and valproate versus levetiracetam for generalised and unclassified epilepsy: two SANAD II non-inferiority RCTs. Health Technol Assess 2021; 25:1-134. [PMID: 34931602 DOI: 10.3310/hta25750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Levetiracetam (Keppra®, UCB Pharma Ltd, Slough, UK) and zonisamide (Zonegran®, Eisai Co. Ltd, Tokyo, Japan) are licensed as monotherapy for focal epilepsy, and levetiracetam is increasingly used as a first-line treatment for generalised epilepsy, particularly for women of childbearing age. However, there is uncertainty as to whether or not they should be recommended as first-line treatments owing to a lack of evidence of clinical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness. OBJECTIVES To compare the clinical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of lamotrigine (Lamictal®, GlaxoSmithKline plc, Brentford, UK) (standard treatment) with levetiracetam and zonisamide (new treatments) for focal epilepsy, and to compare valproate (Epilim®, Sanofi SA, Paris, France) (standard treatment) with levetiracetam (new treatment) for generalised and unclassified epilepsy. DESIGN Two pragmatic randomised unblinded non-inferiority trials run in parallel. SETTING Outpatient services in NHS hospitals throughout the UK. PARTICIPANTS Those aged ≥ 5 years with two or more spontaneous seizures that require anti-seizure medication. INTERVENTIONS Participants with focal epilepsy were randomised to receive lamotrigine, levetiracetam or zonisamide. Participants with generalised or unclassifiable epilepsy were randomised to receive valproate or levetiracetam. The randomisation method was minimisation using a web-based program. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The primary outcome was time to 12-month remission from seizures. For this outcome, and all other time-to-event outcomes, we report hazard ratios for the standard treatment compared with the new treatment. For the focal epilepsy trial, the non-inferiority limit (lamotrigine vs. new treatments) was 1.329. For the generalised and unclassified epilepsy trial, the non-inferiority limit (valproate vs. new treatments) was 1.314. Secondary outcomes included time to treatment failure, time to first seizure, time to 24-month remission, adverse reactions, quality of life and cost-effectiveness. RESULTS Focal epilepsy. A total of 990 participants were recruited, of whom 330 were randomised to receive lamotrigine, 332 were randomised to receive levetiracetam and 328 were randomised to receive zonisamide. Levetiracetam did not meet the criteria for non-inferiority (hazard ratio 1.329) in the primary intention-to-treat analysis of time to 12-month remission (hazard ratio vs. lamotrigine 1.18, 97.5% confidence interval 0.95 to 1.47), but zonisamide did meet the criteria (hazard ratio vs. lamotrigine 1.03, 97.5% confidence interval 0.83 to 1.28). In the per-protocol analysis, lamotrigine was superior to both levetiracetam (hazard ratio 1.32, 95% confidence interval 1.05 to 1.66) and zonisamide (hazard ratio 1.37, 95% confidence interval 1.08 to 1.73). For time to treatment failure, lamotrigine was superior to levetiracetam (hazard ratio 0.60, 95% confidence interval 0.46 to 0.77) and zonisamide (hazard ratio 0.46, 95% confidence interval 0.36 to 0.60). Adverse reactions were reported by 33% of participants starting lamotrigine, 44% starting levetiracetam and 45% starting zonisamide. In the economic analysis, both levetiracetam and zonisamide were more costly and less effective than lamotrigine and were therefore dominated. Generalised and unclassifiable epilepsy. Of 520 patients recruited, 260 were randomised to receive valproate and 260 were randomised to receive to levetiracetam. A total of 397 patients had generalised epilepsy and 123 had unclassified epilepsy. Levetiracetam did not meet the criteria for non-inferiority in the primary intention-to-treat analysis of time to 12-month remission (hazard ratio 1.19, 95% confidence interval 0.96 to 1.47; non-inferiority margin 1.314). In the per-protocol analysis of time to 12-month remission, valproate was superior to levetiracetam (hazard ratio 1.68, 95% confidence interval 1.30 to 2.15). Valproate was superior to levetiracetam for time to treatment failure (hazard ratio 0.65, 95% confidence interval 0.50 to 0.83). Adverse reactions were reported by 37.4% of participants receiving valproate and 41.5% of those receiving levetiracetam. Levetiracetam was both more costly (incremental cost of £104, 95% central range -£587 to £1234) and less effective (incremental quality-adjusted life-year of -0.035, 95% central range -0.137 to 0.032) than valproate, and was therefore dominated. At a cost-effectiveness threshold of £20,000 per quality-adjusted life-year, levetiracetam was associated with a probability of 0.17 of being cost-effective. LIMITATIONS The SANAD II trial was unblinded, which could have biased results by influencing decisions about dosing, treatment failure and the attribution of adverse reactions. FUTURE WORK SANAD II data could now be included in an individual participant meta-analysis of similar trials, and future similar trials are required to assess the clinical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of other new treatments, including lacosamide and perampanel. CONCLUSIONS Focal epilepsy - The SANAD II findings do not support the use of levetiracetam or zonisamide as first-line treatments in focal epilepsy. Generalised and unclassifiable epilepsy - The SANAD II findings do not support the use of levetiracetam as a first-line treatment for newly diagnosed generalised epilepsy. For women of childbearing potential, these results inform discussions about the benefit (lower teratogenicity) and harm (worse seizure outcomes and higher treatment failure rate) of levetiracetam compared with valproate. TRIAL REGISTRATION Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN30294119 and EudraCT 2012-001884-64. FUNDING This project was funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Health Technology Assessment programme and will be published in full in Health Technology Assessment; Vol. 25, No. 75. See the NIHR Journals Library website for further project information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony G Marson
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Girvan Burnside
- Department of Health Data Science, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Richard Appleton
- The Roald Dahl EEG Unit, Alder Hey Children's Health Park, Liverpool, UK
| | - Dave Smith
- The Walton Centre NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK
| | | | - Graeme Sills
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Catrin Tudur-Smith
- Department of Health Data Science, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Catrin O Plumpton
- Centre for Health Economics and Medicines Evaluation, Bangor University, Bangor, UK
| | - Dyfrig A Hughes
- Centre for Health Economics and Medicines Evaluation, Bangor University, Bangor, UK
| | - Paula R Williamson
- Department of Health Data Science, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Gus Baker
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Silviya Balabanova
- Liverpool Clinical Trials Centre, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Claire Taylor
- Liverpool Clinical Trials Centre, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Richard Brown
- Addenbrooke's Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
| | - Dan Hindley
- Bolton NHS Foundation Trust, Royal Bolton Hospital, Bolton, UK
| | - Stephen Howell
- Department of Neurology, Royal Hallamshire Hospital, Sheffield, UK
| | | | | | - Philip Em Smith
- The Alan Richens Epilepsy Unit, University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff, UK
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21
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Chiang KL, Liang CY, Hsieh LP, Chien LN. Analysis of trends and factors determining initial antiseizure medication choice for epilepsy in Taiwan. Seizure 2021; 93:145-153. [PMID: 34768177 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2021.10.020] [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: 08/16/2021] [Revised: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the current trends and factors associated with the first anti-seizure medications (ASMs) prescribed for epilepsy in Taiwan. METHODS Data for patients with epilepsy were collected from the National Health Insurance Research Database, a population-based claims database. We selected patients with newly diagnosed epilepsy from 2013 to 2016. Multivariate logistic regression was used to examine the factors associated with the selection of newer ASMs for the first prescription. RESULTS A total of 73,891 patients with newly diagnosed epilepsy were eligible for the study, and the annual incidence was approximately 0.79 per 1,000 people. The five ASMs most prescribed for monotherapy were valproic acid, phenytoin, levetiracetam, gabapentin, and oxcarbazepine, accounting for nearly 90% of all ASMs. Valproic acid was the most-prescribed ASM (more than 30%), and levetiracetam has replaced phenytoin as the second choice since 2015. Factors associated with the selection of newer ASMs for the first prescription were patients' year of diagnosis, gender, socioeconomic level, and previous or existing comorbidities and the profiles of the care providers (accreditation level, service volume, geographic location, and degree of urbanization of the surrounding area). CONCLUSION The data indicated that the trends in ASMs first prescribed for patients in Taiwan accorded with most of the international epilepsy treatment guidelines. However, there were some differences between our results and those in developed countries. In addition, we observed a large urban-rural disparity in the administration of ASMs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kuo-Liang Chiang
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Kuang-Tien General Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan; Department of Nutrition, Hungkuang University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Chun-Yu Liang
- Department of Neurology, Yumin Medical Corporation Yumin Hospital, Nantou County, Taiwan
| | - Liang-Po Hsieh
- Department of Neurology, Cheng-Ching Hospital, Full postal address: No. 966, Sec. 4, Taiwan Blvd., Xitun Dist., Taichung City 407211, Taiwan.
| | - Li-Nien Chien
- School of Health Care Administration, College of Management, Taipei Medical University, Full postal address: No. 250, Wuxing St., Xinyi Dist., Taipei 110301, Taiwan.
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22
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Ritchie HE, Abela D, Ababneh D, Howe AM, Farrell E, Hegedus E. The effect of phenytoin on embryonic heart rate in Vivo. Reprod Toxicol 2021; 106:109-114. [PMID: 34653594 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2021.10.007] [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: 08/19/2021] [Revised: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 10/09/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Phenytoin is a known human teratogen with unknown etiology. Several mechanisms have been proposed including disturbances in folate metabolism, induction of embryonic hypoxia following phenytoin-induced bradycardia, free radical formation following re-oxygenation and phenytoin-induced maternal hyperglycemia. Using high frequency ultrasound, we demonstrated that phenytoin induced a dramatic decrease in the heart rate of embryos. This coincided with a moderate transient decrease in maternal heart rate and blood glucose levels. Embryonic heart rate had not fully recovered 24 h later in some embryos despite normal maternal physiological parameters. In a separate study, extent of hypoxia was measured using the marker pimonidazole. Phenytoin-exposed embryos did not demonstrate increased hypoxia compared to control embryos at 2, 4, 8 or 24 h dosing. Together our results show that phenytoin induces malformations as a result of a combination of insults: embryonic bradycardia, maternal bradycardia and maternal hyperglycemia. However, this does not appear to result in measurable embryonic hypoxia in our animal model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen E Ritchie
- School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia.
| | - Dominqiue Abela
- School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - Deena Ababneh
- School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - Andrew M Howe
- School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - Emma Farrell
- School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - Elizabeth Hegedus
- School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
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23
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Ransford N, Marnell B, Randall C, Yates C, Howie G. Systemic medicines taken by adult special care dental patients and implications for the management of their care. Br Dent J 2021; 231:33-42. [PMID: 34244646 DOI: 10.1038/s41415-021-3180-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 11/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Introduction Significant changes have taken place in the profile of prescription medicines being taken by the adult UK population over the last decade. The aims of this article are to review the literature to understand the overall trends and underlying factors, and then to compare this with the medication profile of a cohort of adult special care dental (SCD) patients. Materials and method Five hundred patient records were examined and retrospective data on systemic medicines being taken were obtained and classified according to the index used in the British National Formulary (BNF).Results The results revealed a high level of polypharmacy with 57% of SCD patients taking three or more medicines compared to 24% of the population in England. Antiepileptic drugs were the most frequently taken group of medicines (42%), followed by antidepressants (39.7%) and antipsychotics (37.6%). Conclusions Our results demonstrate the medical complexity of patients in this cohort and enable clinicians to increase their familiarity with the most commonly taken medicines and the tools available to manage the implications for dental care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas Ransford
- Consultant in Special Care Dentistry, Birmingham Dental Hospital, 5 Mill Pool Way, Pebble Mill, Birmingham, B5 7SW, UK.
| | - Ben Marnell
- Dental Core Trainee, Birmingham Dental Hospital, 5 Mill Pool Way, Pebble Mill, Birmingham, B5 7SW, UK
| | - Christine Randall
- Assistant Director and Lead Pharmacist for Dental Medicines Information and Pharmacovigilance, North West Medicines Information Centre, 70 Pembroke Place, Liverpool, L69 3GF, UK
| | - Clare Yates
- Specialist in Special Care Dentistry, Birmingham Dental Hospital, 5 Mill Pool Way, Pebble Mill, Birmingham, B5 7SW, UK
| | - Gillian Howie
- Speciality Trainee in Special Care Dentistry, Birmingham Dental Hospital, 5 Mill Pool Way, Pebble Mill, Birmingham, B5 7SW, UK
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24
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Chin RFM, Pickrell WO, Guelfucci F, Martin M, Holland R. Prevalence, healthcare resource utilization and mortality of Lennox-Gastaut syndrome: retrospective linkage cohort study. Seizure 2021; 91:159-166. [PMID: 34161904 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2021.05.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2021] [Revised: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To retrospectively investigate the prevalence, demography, antiseizure medication (ASM) usage, healthcare resource utilization (HCRU), and mortality of patients with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS) in primary and secondary care in the UK. METHODS Patients with confirmed LGS were anonymously identified from the UK Clinical Practice Research Datalink (CPRD) GOLD database (01/01/1987-31/1b0/2018) using the LGS Read Code (F250500). Probable LGS was identified using the International Classification of Diseases-10/Read Code for epilepsy (Hospital Episode Statistics [HES]/CPRD) plus rufinamide prescription. Period prevalence was calculated based on patients enrolled in CPRD GOLD and alive in 2017. CPRD data were linked to HES to calculate HCRU, and to the Office for National Statistics mortality registry. RESULTS Period prevalence of LGS was 0.578/10,000 (n = 180), with 74 and 106 patients identified with confirmed (0.289/10,000) and probable LGS (0.420/10,000). Mean (max) ASM usage was ~1 (3) per year. In confirmed LGS, valproate (72%), lamotrigine (69%), and clobazam (66%) were the most commonly prescribed ASMs. HCRU (per patient-year) was similar in confirmed and probable LGS and mostly consisted of primary care general practitioner consultations (4-6), outpatient visits (5-10), inpatient admissions (1-4), and A&E visits (1). During the follow-up period, 18 patients died with crude mortality rates of 6.12 (confirmed LGS) and 4.17 (probable LGS) deaths per 1000 person-years. CONCLUSION Prevalence of LGS appears low in the UK. The similarly high HCRU and mortality rates in confirmed and probable LGS support the validity and specificity of the probable LGS algorithm and high burden of LGS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard F M Chin
- Muir Maxwell Epilepsy Centre, Child Life and Health, University of Edinburgh, Royal Hospital for Children and Young People, 50 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh BioQuarter, Edinburgh, EH16 4TJ, UK.
| | - W Owen Pickrell
- Neurology and Molecular Neuroscience Group, Institute of Life Science, Swansea University Medical School, Swansea University, Swansea, SA2 8PP, UK; Neurology Department, Morriston Hospital, Swansea Bay University Health Board, Swansea, SA6 6NL, UK.
| | - Florent Guelfucci
- Value, Access & HEOR, Commercial Advisory Group, Syneos Health, 41/45 Boulevard Romain Rolland, 92120 Montrouge, Paris, France.
| | - Monique Martin
- Evidence Synthesis, Modeling, Communications, Evidera, The Ark, 201 Talgarth Road, London W6 8BJ, UK.
| | - Rowena Holland
- Market Access and Health Economics and Outcomes Research, GW Pharma Ltd, 1 Cavendish Pl, Marylebone, London W1G 0QF, UK.
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25
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Yu L, Zhu W, Zhu X, Lu Y, Yu Z, Dai H. Anti-seizure Medication Prescription in Adult Outpatients With Epilepsy in China, 2013-2018. Front Neurol 2021; 12:649589. [PMID: 34108928 PMCID: PMC8180859 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2021.649589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2021] [Accepted: 04/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to assess the national trends in anti-seizure medication (ASM) prescription in Chinese adult outpatients with epilepsy over a 6-year period from 2013 to 2018. Prescriptions for adult outpatients with epilepsy from hospitals in six major cities were extracted from the database of the Hospital Prescription Analysis Cooperative Project. Trends in the annual prescriptions and expenditure of ASM were analyzed. Prescription patterns (monotherapy or combination therapy) were also assessed. A total of 225,767 prescriptions from 60 hospitals were eligible and extracted for analysis. The number of ASM prescriptions increased from 28,360 in 2013 to 44,110 in 2018, and the corresponding cost increased from 9,452,990 Chinese Yuan (CNY) in 2013 to 14,627,865 CNY in 2018. The share of newer ASM use increased continuously, accounting for 56.75% of prescriptions and 85.03% of expenditure in 2018. The most frequently prescribed ASMs were sodium valproate and levetiracetam. The proportion of sodium valproate use decreased, while the proportion of levetiracetam use increased dramatically in terms of both ASM prescriptions and expenditure. Monotherapy was more frequent than combination therapy. The three most common combination therapies were sodium valproate/lamotrigine, levetiracetam/oxcarbazepine, and sodium valproate/levetiracetam. In summary, ASM use increased rapidly in terms of the number of ASM prescriptions and cost during the 6-year period, which raises concern regarding the rational use and pharma-economic profiles of ASMs. In place of valproate, levetiracetam became the most frequently used ASM. The development of ASM prescription is in line with therapy guidelines and reflects the current state of research in China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingyan Yu
- Department of Pharmacy, Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Wenjie Zhu
- Department of Pharmacy, Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiuping Zhu
- Department of Pharmacy, Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yan Lu
- Department of Pharmacy, Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhenwei Yu
- Department of Pharmacy, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Haibin Dai
- Department of Pharmacy, Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
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26
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Guo Y, Lin Z, Huang Y, Yu L. Effects of valproate, lamotrigine, and levetiracetam monotherapy on bone health in newly diagnosed adult patients with epilepsy. Epilepsy Behav 2020; 113:107489. [PMID: 33220583 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2020.107489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Revised: 09/08/2020] [Accepted: 09/09/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of valproate (VPA), lamotrigine (LTG), and levetiracetam (LEV) on bone turnover and bone mineral density (BMD) in newly diagnosed adult patients with epilepsy. METHODS Eligible adult patients who were newly diagnosed with epilepsy were treated with VPA, LTG, and LEV. The chemical indicators of bone metabolism and BMD were measured before treatment and 2 years after treatment with different antiseizure medication (ASM) monotherapies. Then, the differences in these parameters before and after treatment were analyzed. RESULTS One hundred twenty-four patients completed the 2 years follow-up; 43 received monotherapy with VPA, 32 received LTG, and 49 received LEV. Serum parathyroid hormone (PTH), bone alkaline phosphatase (B-ALP), and β-cross-linked C-telopeptide of type I collagen (β-CTX) levels were elevated in adult patients after 2 years of VPA administration; the serum procollagen I intact N-terminal peptide (PINP) level was noticeably higher in patients after LEV treatment than before treatment. Meanwhile, the BMD of the lumbar spine and femoral neck did not change in patients treated with VPA, LTG, and LEV. CONCLUSIONS Valproate altered bone turnover in adult patients with epilepsy, while LTG and LEV did not exert harmful effects on bone health in adult patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Guo
- Department of Neurology, The Sixth People's Hospital of Chengdu, No. 16 South Jianshe Road, Chengdu, Sichuan 610051, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhonghua Lin
- Sichuan Provincial Center for Mental Health, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, 32# W. Sec 2, 1st Ring Rd, Chengdu, Sichuan 610072, People's Republic of China
| | - Yulan Huang
- Sichuan Provincial Center for Mental Health, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, 32# W. Sec 2, 1st Ring Rd, Chengdu, Sichuan 610072, People's Republic of China.
| | - Liang Yu
- Department of Neurology, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, 32# W. Sec 2, 1st Ring Rd, Chengdu, Sichuan 610072, People's Republic of China.
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Borghs S, Byram L, Chan J, Dedeken P, Logan J, Kiri V, Noack-Rink M, Patsalos PN, Thieffry S. Comparing healthcare cost associated with the use of enzyme-inducing and non-enzyme active antiepileptic drugs in elderly patients with epilepsy in the UK: a long-term retrospective, matched cohort study. BMC Neurol 2020; 20:7. [PMID: 31914953 PMCID: PMC6947959 DOI: 10.1186/s12883-019-1587-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2019] [Accepted: 12/24/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In elderly patients (≥65 years of age) with epilepsy who take medications for comorbid conditions, some antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) may alter the metabolism of other treatments and increase the risk of adverse consequences and healthcare utilisation. This analysis compares healthcare costs associated with enzyme-inducing AEDs (EIAEDs) and non-enzyme active AEDs (nEAAEDs) use in elderly patients with epilepsy. METHODS This retrospective matched cohort study used the Clinical Practice Research Datalink (CPRD) of UK primary care medical records, linked to the Hospital Episode Statistics (HES) database. Selected patients with epilepsy were ≥ 65 years and prescribed an EIAED or nEAAED between 2001 and 2010 (index) after ≥1 year without AEDs (baseline) and followed until the first occurrence of the following: end of HES data coverage, end of GP registration, or death; practice's up-to-standard status or addition of an AED belonging to another cohort or discontinuation of the last AED of that cohort. Propensity score matching reduced confounding factor effects between cohorts. Key outcomes included time to cohort treatment failure, time to index AED treatment failure, and direct healthcare costs in 2014 Pound Sterling (£) values. RESULTS Overall, 1425 elderly patients were included: 964 with EIAEDs and 461 with nEAAEDs. At baseline, the EIAED cohort was older (mean age, 76.2 vs. 75.1 years) and a higher proportion were male. Baseline direct healthcare costs were similar. After matching (n = 210 each), and over the entire follow-up period, median monthly direct healthcare costs were higher for patients taking EIAEDs than nEAAEDs (£403 vs. £317; p = 0.0150, Mann-Whitney U). Costs were higher for patients remaining in the EIAED cohort after 3 follow-up years. The median time to cohort treatment failure for the EIAED cohort was 1110 days vs. 1175 days for the nEAAED cohort. CONCLUSION Newly treated elderly patients with epilepsy were more likely to be prescribed EIAEDs than nEAAEDs. In matched cohorts, elderly patients with epilepsy treated with EIAEDs had higher average total direct and epilepsy-related healthcare costs than nEAAED-treated patients; this difference was greater than previously reported in the overall adult population. Changing treatment practices could improve patient care and reduce costs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Peter Dedeken
- UCB Pharma, Brussels, Belgium.,Heilig Hart Hospitaal, Lier, Belgium
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