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Kerr WT, Kok N, Reddy AS, McFarlane KN, Stern JM, Pennell PB, Stacey W, French J. Demonstration of Group-Level and Individual-Level Efficacy Using Time-to-Event Designs for Clinical Trials of Antiseizure Medications. Neurology 2024; 103:e209713. [PMID: 39052963 PMCID: PMC11271390 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000209713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Participants with treatment-resistant epilepsy who are randomized to add-on placebo and remain in a trial for the typical 3 to 5-month maintenance period may be at increased risk of adverse outcomes. A novel trial design has been suggested, time to prerandomization monthly seizure count (T-PSC), which would limit participants' time on ineffective therapy. We reanalyzed 11 completed trials to determine whether the primary efficacy conclusions at T-PSC matched each of the original, longer trials. METHODS A total of 11 double-blind, placebo-controlled trials of levetiracetam, brivaracetam, lacosamide, topiramate, and lamotrigine for either focal-onset or generalized-onset epilepsy were selected. We evaluated the group-level and individual-level efficacy of treatments including the median percent reduction (MPR) in seizure frequency and 50% responder rate (50RR) at T-PSC, time to second seizure, and time to first seizure compared with the full-length trial. RESULTS The primary efficacy conclusions of 10 of the 11 trials would have been the same with a T-PSC design compared with the traditional design (the exception of lamotrigine had a very high initial placebo response). As a proportion of the full-length effect size, 90% of the MPR and 85% of the 50RR were seen at T-PSC (95% CI 73%-113% and 65%-110%, respectively). Using the T-PSC design, the time on blinded treatment was at least 312 participant-years shorter (40% of total duration) and 142,000 seizures occurred during this time (60% of total seizures). By contrast, the time to first or second seizure designs reproduced group-level effect size, but the primary efficacy conclusions of each trial and individual-level efficacy correspondence were fair to poor. DISCUSSION These results support the use of this trial design for new epilepsy medication trials because this reanalysis of 11 randomized controlled trials demonstrated that observation until T-PSC was sufficient to demonstrate efficacy while potentially improving participant safety by reducing the time of exposure to placebo and inadequate treatment. Despite analysis of 11 trials including 3,619 participants, we did not observe a significant reduction in the group-level effect size, which is directly related to statistical power. The next step is to evaluate whether T-PSC is sufficient to evaluate safety as measured by adverse events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wesley T Kerr
- From the Department of Neurology (W.T.K., N.K., A.S.R., K.N.M., P.B.P.), and Department of Biomedical Informatics (W.T.K.), University of Pittsburgh, PA; Department of Neurology (W.T.K., N.K., A.S.R., W.S.), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor; Department of Neurology (W.T.K., J.M.S.), University of California, Los Angeles; Department of Biomedical Engineering (W.S.), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor; and Comprehensive Epilepsy Center (J.F.), New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York
| | - Neo Kok
- From the Department of Neurology (W.T.K., N.K., A.S.R., K.N.M., P.B.P.), and Department of Biomedical Informatics (W.T.K.), University of Pittsburgh, PA; Department of Neurology (W.T.K., N.K., A.S.R., W.S.), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor; Department of Neurology (W.T.K., J.M.S.), University of California, Los Angeles; Department of Biomedical Engineering (W.S.), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor; and Comprehensive Epilepsy Center (J.F.), New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York
| | - Advith S Reddy
- From the Department of Neurology (W.T.K., N.K., A.S.R., K.N.M., P.B.P.), and Department of Biomedical Informatics (W.T.K.), University of Pittsburgh, PA; Department of Neurology (W.T.K., N.K., A.S.R., W.S.), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor; Department of Neurology (W.T.K., J.M.S.), University of California, Los Angeles; Department of Biomedical Engineering (W.S.), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor; and Comprehensive Epilepsy Center (J.F.), New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York
| | - Katherine N McFarlane
- From the Department of Neurology (W.T.K., N.K., A.S.R., K.N.M., P.B.P.), and Department of Biomedical Informatics (W.T.K.), University of Pittsburgh, PA; Department of Neurology (W.T.K., N.K., A.S.R., W.S.), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor; Department of Neurology (W.T.K., J.M.S.), University of California, Los Angeles; Department of Biomedical Engineering (W.S.), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor; and Comprehensive Epilepsy Center (J.F.), New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York
| | - John M Stern
- From the Department of Neurology (W.T.K., N.K., A.S.R., K.N.M., P.B.P.), and Department of Biomedical Informatics (W.T.K.), University of Pittsburgh, PA; Department of Neurology (W.T.K., N.K., A.S.R., W.S.), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor; Department of Neurology (W.T.K., J.M.S.), University of California, Los Angeles; Department of Biomedical Engineering (W.S.), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor; and Comprehensive Epilepsy Center (J.F.), New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York
| | - Page B Pennell
- From the Department of Neurology (W.T.K., N.K., A.S.R., K.N.M., P.B.P.), and Department of Biomedical Informatics (W.T.K.), University of Pittsburgh, PA; Department of Neurology (W.T.K., N.K., A.S.R., W.S.), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor; Department of Neurology (W.T.K., J.M.S.), University of California, Los Angeles; Department of Biomedical Engineering (W.S.), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor; and Comprehensive Epilepsy Center (J.F.), New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York
| | - William Stacey
- From the Department of Neurology (W.T.K., N.K., A.S.R., K.N.M., P.B.P.), and Department of Biomedical Informatics (W.T.K.), University of Pittsburgh, PA; Department of Neurology (W.T.K., N.K., A.S.R., W.S.), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor; Department of Neurology (W.T.K., J.M.S.), University of California, Los Angeles; Department of Biomedical Engineering (W.S.), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor; and Comprehensive Epilepsy Center (J.F.), New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York
| | - Jacqueline French
- From the Department of Neurology (W.T.K., N.K., A.S.R., K.N.M., P.B.P.), and Department of Biomedical Informatics (W.T.K.), University of Pittsburgh, PA; Department of Neurology (W.T.K., N.K., A.S.R., W.S.), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor; Department of Neurology (W.T.K., J.M.S.), University of California, Los Angeles; Department of Biomedical Engineering (W.S.), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor; and Comprehensive Epilepsy Center (J.F.), New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York
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Kerr WT, Ngo LY, Zhu L, Patten A, Cheng JY, Reddy AS, French JA. Time to prerandomization seizure count design sufficiently assessed the safety and tolerability of perampanel for the treatment of primary generalized tonic-clonic seizures. Epilepsia 2024; 65:2412-2422. [PMID: 38864472 DOI: 10.1111/epi.18023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2024] [Revised: 05/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Static assignment of participants in randomized clinical trials to placebo or ineffective treatment confers risk from continued seizures. An alternative trial design of time to exceed prerandomization monthly seizure count (T-PSC) has replicated the efficacy conclusions of traditionally designed trials, with shorter exposure to placebo and ineffective treatment. Trials aim to evaluate efficacy as well as safety and tolerability; therefore, we evaluated whether this T-PSC design also could replicate the trial's safety and tolerability conclusions. METHODS We retrospectively applied the T-PSC design to analyze treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) from a blinded, placebo-controlled trial of perampanel for primary generalized tonic-clonic seizures (NCT01393743). The safety analysis set consisted of 81 and 82 participants randomized to perampanel and placebo arms, respectively. We evaluated the incidences of TEAEs, treatment-related TEAEs, serious TEAEs, and TEAEs of special interest that occurred before T-PSC relative to those observed during the full-length trial. RESULTS Of the 67 and 59 participants who experienced TEAEs in the perampanel and placebo arms during full-length trial, 66 (99%) and 54 (92%) participants experienced TEAEs with onset occurring before T-PSC, respectively. When limited to treatment-related TEAEs, 55 of 56 (98%) and 32 of 37 (86%) participants reported treatment-related TEAEs that occurred before T-PSC in the perampanel and placebo arms, respectively. There were more TEAEs after T-PSC with placebo as compared to perampanel (Fisher exact odds ratio = 8.6, p = .035), which resulted in overestimation of the difference in TEAE rate. There was a numerical reduction in serious TEAEs (3/13 occurred after T-PSC, one in placebo and two in perampanel). SIGNIFICANCE Almost all TEAEs occurred before T-PSC. More treatment-related TEAEs occurred after T-PSC for participants randomized to placebo than perampanel, which may be due to either a shorter T-PSC or delayed time to TEAE for placebo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wesley T Kerr
- Department of Neurology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Advith S Reddy
- Department of Neurology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Jacqueline A French
- Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
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Yang L, Liu Y, Deng Y, Peng X, Hu Q, Jiang L, Hu Y. Efficacy, safety, and tolerability of adjunctive Lacosamide therapy for focal seizures in young children aged ≥1 month to ≤4 years: A real-world study. CNS Neurosci Ther 2024; 30:e14917. [PMID: 39123302 PMCID: PMC11315674 DOI: 10.1111/cns.14917] [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: 02/07/2024] [Revised: 07/25/2024] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024] Open
Abstract
AIMS To evaluate the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of adjunctive lacosamide therapy against focal seizures in young children (1 month - 4 years). METHODS This non-randomized, open-label, and self-controlled real-world study included 105 children (1 month-4 years) with focal seizures treated with adjunctive lacosamide therapy at Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University. RESULTS (1) The 50% response rates at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months of follow-up were 58.1%, 61.0%, 57.1%, and 56.2%, while the seizure-free rates were 27.6%, 34.3%, 32.4%, and 37.1%, respectively. The 50% response rate of the first addition of lacosamide for focal seizures was much higher than the second and later added treatment at 3 months (p = 0.038). After 1 year of follow-up, these children showed an improvement in neurodevelopmental levels (p < 0.05). (2) Lacosamide retention rate was 72.7% (64/88) after 1 year of follow-up. Lack of efficacy and serious adverse events were independent risk factors for the lacosamide retention rate. (3) During adjunctive lacosamide therapy, 13 (12.4%) patients reported adverse events and five (4.7%) patients withdrew due to adverse events, including vomiting drowsiness, ataxia (0.94%), neck itching with eczema (0.94%), irritability (1.88%), and gastrointestinal discomfort (0.94%). CONCLUSION Adjunctive lacosamide therapy was effective, safe, and well-tolerated in young Chinese children with focal seizures in this study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Yang
- Department of Neurology Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation base of Child development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Child Neurodevelopment and Cognitive Disorders, Big Data Engineering CenterChildren's Hospital of Chongqing Medical UniversityChongqingChina
| | - Yuhang Liu
- Department of Neurology Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation base of Child development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Child Neurodevelopment and Cognitive Disorders, Big Data Engineering CenterChildren's Hospital of Chongqing Medical UniversityChongqingChina
| | - Yu Deng
- Department of Neurology Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation base of Child development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Child Neurodevelopment and Cognitive Disorders, Big Data Engineering CenterChildren's Hospital of Chongqing Medical UniversityChongqingChina
| | - Xiaoling Peng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Interdisciplinary Research and Application for Data ScienceBNU‐HKBU United International CollegeZhuhaiChina
| | - Qiao Hu
- Department of Neurology Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation base of Child development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Child Neurodevelopment and Cognitive Disorders, Big Data Engineering CenterChildren's Hospital of Chongqing Medical UniversityChongqingChina
| | - Li Jiang
- Department of Neurology Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation base of Child development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Child Neurodevelopment and Cognitive Disorders, Big Data Engineering CenterChildren's Hospital of Chongqing Medical UniversityChongqingChina
| | - Yue Hu
- Department of Neurology Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation base of Child development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Child Neurodevelopment and Cognitive Disorders, Big Data Engineering CenterChildren's Hospital of Chongqing Medical UniversityChongqingChina
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Punia V, Klein P, Mihaylova T, Biton V, Samad O, Ngo LY, Kumar D, Malhotra M. Perampanel as monotherapy or first adjunctive therapy in pediatric and adult patients with epilepsy: the first United States-based phase IV open-label ELEVATE study. J Neurol 2024; 271:4587-4598. [PMID: 38730096 PMCID: PMC11233369 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-024-12399-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
ELEVATE (Study 410; NCT03288129) is the first prospective, multicenter, open-label, Phase IV study of perampanel as monotherapy or first adjunctive therapy in patients aged ≥ 4 years with focal-onset seizures or generalized tonic-clonic seizures in the United States. The study included Screening, Titration (≤ 13 weeks), Maintenance (39 weeks), and Follow-up (4 weeks) Periods. During Titration, perampanel was initiated at 2 mg/day and up-titrated to 4 mg/day at Week 3. Depending on response and tolerability, optional up-titrations to a maximum of 12 mg/day occurred. The primary endpoint was retention rate; additional endpoints included seizure-freedom rate, 50% responder rate, and incidence of treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs). At baseline, 10 (18.5%) patients were assigned to the monotherapy group and 44 (81.5%) patients to the first adjunctive therapy group. However, due to the addition of an anti-seizure medication along with perampanel on the first day of treatment, one patient was excluded from the monotherapy subgroup analyses. The mean perampanel exposure duration was 39.8 weeks and 32 (59.3%) patients completed the study. Retention rate at 12 months (or study completion) was 63.0% (monotherapy, 77.8%; first adjunctive therapy, 59.1%). Seizure-freedom rate during the Maintenance Period was 32.7% (monotherapy, 44.4%; first adjunctive therapy, 29.5%) and the 50% responder rate was 78.7% (monotherapy, 85.7%; first adjunctive therapy, 76.9%). TEAEs and serious TEAEs were reported by 88.9% (n = 48/54) and 7.4% (n = 4/54) of patients, respectively. Overall, the efficacy and safety of perampanel as monotherapy or first adjunctive therapy support the use of perampanel as early-line treatment for epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vineet Punia
- Epilepsy Center, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA.
| | - Pavel Klein
- Mid-Atlantic Epilepsy and Sleep Center, Bethesda, MD, USA
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Deng DZ, Husari KS. Approach to Patients with Seizures and Epilepsy: A Guide for Primary Care Physicians. Prim Care 2024; 51:211-232. [PMID: 38692771 DOI: 10.1016/j.pop.2024.02.008] [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] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
Seizures and epilepsy are common neurologic conditions that are frequently encountered in the outpatient primary care setting. An accurate diagnosis relies on a thorough clinical history and evaluation. Understanding seizure semiology and classification is crucial in conducting the initial assessment. Knowledge of common seizure triggers and provoking factors can further guide diagnostic testing and initial management. The pharmacodynamic characteristics and side effect profiles of anti-seizure medications are important considerations when deciding treatment and counseling patients, particularly those with comorbidities and in special populations such as patient of childbearing potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Doris Z Deng
- Department of Neurology, Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Johns Hopkins University, 600 N. Wolfe Street, Meyer 2-147, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Khalil S Husari
- Department of Neurology, Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Johns Hopkins University, 600 N. Wolfe Street, Meyer 2-147, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA.
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Elgamal S, Ahmed SR, Nahas MM, Hendawy SR, Elshafei O, Zeinhom MG. The effect of lacosamide on calcitonin gene-related peptide serum level in episodic migraine patients: a randomized, controlled trial. Acta Neurol Belg 2024; 124:965-972. [PMID: 38502425 PMCID: PMC11139685 DOI: 10.1007/s13760-024-02499-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Migraine affects 11-15% of people worldwide, and the calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) is released during the migraine attack, producing pulsating pain of migraine. Also, lacosamide reacts with collapsin-response mediator protein 2, preventing its phosphorylation and leading to the inhibition of CGRP release in the trigeminal system. OBJECTIVE The primary outcome was the difference in the serum level of CGRP-LI after three months of treatment with either lacosamide and ibuprofen or ibuprofen alone in episodic migraine patients. The secondary outcomes were assessing safety and efficacy of lacosamide in episodic migraine patients. METHODS We conducted an open-label randomized controlled trial on episodic migraine patients aged 10-55 years diagnosed according to (ICHD-3) in Kafr El-Sheikh University Hospital, Egypt. We assessed serum levels of CGRP-LI before and three months after treatment in our two groups, the lacosamide, and the control groups. We also assessed the side effects of treatment in each group, the percentage of patients who achieved ≥ 50% reduction in the migraine monthly days (MMD) frequency and the percentage of patients who achieved pain freedom within 2 h in ≥ 4 of 5 attacks in each group. RESULTS 200 episodic migraine patients completed the study. There was a statistically significantly higher reduction in the serum CGRP-LI level in the lacosamide group compared with the control group. In addition, lacosamide was well tolerated by patients. Also, the lacosamide group had statistically significant higher percentage of patients who achieved ≥ 50% reduction in the migraine monthly days (MMD) frequency and pain freedom within two hours in ≥ 4 of 5 attacks with P-values 0.002, 0.02 respectively. CONCLUSION The daily use of lacosamide 50 mg Bid for three months in episodic migraine patients was associated with a significant reduction in serum CGRP-LI, better clinical outcomes regarding frequency and duration of migraine attacks, and was well tolerated by patients. These results were derived from an open-label pilot study that needed to be thoroughly investigated by a large-scale, randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled study. TRIAL REGISTRATION We registered our trial on ClinicalTrials.gov, named after "The Lacosamide's Effect on Calcitonin Gene-related Peptide in Migraine Patients," and with a clinical trial number (NCT05632133)-August 8, 2023.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shimaa Elgamal
- Neurology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Kafr El-Sheikh University, Elgeish Street, Kafr El-Sheikh, Egypt
| | - Sherihan Rezk Ahmed
- Neurology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Kafr El-Sheikh University, Elgeish Street, Kafr El-Sheikh, Egypt.
| | - Mohamed M Nahas
- Clinical Pathology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Al Korneish Street, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Shimaa R Hendawy
- Clinical Pathology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Al Korneish Street, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Osama Elshafei
- Neurology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Al Korneish Street, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Mohamed G Zeinhom
- Neurology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Kafr El-Sheikh University, Elgeish Street, Kafr El-Sheikh, Egypt.
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Xiong L, He H, Wang D, Liu T, Xiao N. Effectiveness and safety of Lacosamide in pediatric patients with epilepsy under four years: Results from a prospective cohort study in China. Seizure 2024; 118:71-79. [PMID: 38643678 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2024.04.009] [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: 02/12/2024] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lacosamide (LCM) has shown promising efficacy and safety outcomes in clinical trials. However, the evidence is limited among pediatric patients especially under four years in real-world. The study investigated the treatment outcomes and safety of LCM in patients under four years based on the data of the epilepsy registry of Children in China. METHODS A prospective cohort study was conducted among patients under 4 years who newly received LCM as monotherapy or adjunctive therapy. The treatment outcomes were measured by retention rate of LCM, 50 % response rates and seizure-free rates during follow-up. The retention rate of LCM was assessed using the Kaplan-Meier survival model. Adverse events were reported as a percentage of all participants. RESULTS Of 109 participants (mean follow-up: 18.6 months), 59 received LCM as monotherapy and 50 as adjunctive therapy. Sixty patients had focal epilepsy, 44 had generalized epilepsy and 5 had combined generalized and focal epilepsy. 70 % of patients in the monotherapy group and 41 % in the adjunctive therapy group remained on LCM treatment without additional treatments for at least one year. In patients with monotherapy, 50 % response rate and seizure-free rate were 75 % and 56 % at 12 months, respectively. In adjunctive therapy group, these rates were 51 % and 36 %, respectively. Lower baseline seizure frequency in both treatment groups (monotherapy: p < 0.001; adjunctive therapy: p = 0.02) and younger age groups within the monotherapy group (P = 0.04) correlated with a higher LCM retention rate. Adverse events were reported by 15 patients (13.8 %), with somnolence being the most common (7 of 15 patients). CONCLUSION With a comprehensive information and high-quality of data, the study demonstrates the effective treatment outcome and safety of LCM. The study adds reliable evidence to exiting real-word evidence of LCM in the specific age group of patients with epilepsy to fill the evidence gap.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Xiong
- Department of Rehabilitation, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, No.136 Zhongshan Er Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing 400000, China
| | - Huan He
- Department of Rehabilitation, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, No.136 Zhongshan Er Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing 400000, China
| | - Duan Wang
- Department of Rehabilitation, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, No.136 Zhongshan Er Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing 400000, China
| | - Tailin Liu
- Department of Rehabilitation, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, No.136 Zhongshan Er Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing 400000, China
| | - Nong Xiao
- Department of Rehabilitation, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Pediatrics, No.136 Zhongshan Er Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing 400000, China.
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Terman SW, Kirkpatrick L, Kerr WT, Akiyama LF, Baajour W, Atilgan D, Dorotan MKC, Choi HW, French JA. Challenges and directions in epilepsy diagnostics and therapeutics: Proceedings of the 17th Epilepsy Therapies and Diagnostics Development conference. Epilepsia 2024; 65:846-860. [PMID: 38135921 PMCID: PMC11018495 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
Substantial efforts are underway toward optimizing the diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment of seizures and epilepsy. We describe preclinical programs in place for screening investigational therapeutic candidates in animal models, with particular attention to identifying and eliminating drugs that might paradoxically aggravate seizure burden. After preclinical development, we discuss challenges and solutions in the design and regulatory logistics of clinical trial execution, and efforts to develop disease biomarkers and interventions that may be not only seizure-suppressing, but also disease-modifying. As disease-modifying treatments are designed, there is clear recognition that, although seizures represent one critical therapeutic target, targeting nonseizure outcomes like cognitive development or functional outcomes requires changes to traditional designs. This reflects our increasing understanding that epilepsy is a disease with profound impact on quality of life for the patient and caregivers due to both seizures themselves and other nonseizure factors. This review examines selected key challenges and future directions in epilepsy diagnostics and therapeutics, from drug discovery to translational application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel W Terman
- University of Michigan Department of Neurology, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Laura Kirkpatrick
- University of Pittsburgh Department of Neurology, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
- University of Pittsburgh Department of Pediatrics, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Wesley T Kerr
- University of Michigan Department of Neurology, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
- University of Pittsburgh Department of Neurology, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
- University of Pittsburgh Department of Biomedical Informatics, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Lisa F Akiyama
- University of Washington Department of Neurology, Seattle, WA 98105, USA
| | - Wadih Baajour
- University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Department of Neurology, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Deniz Atilgan
- University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Department of Neurology, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | | | - Hyoung Won Choi
- Emory University Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neurology, Atlanta, GA 30322
| | - Jacqueline A French
- NYU Grossman School of Medicine and NYU Langone Health, New York, NY 10016, USA
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Gauer L, Baer S, Valenti-Hirsch MP, De Saint-Martin A, Hirsch E. Drug-resistant generalized epilepsies: Revisiting the frontiers of idiopathic generalized epilepsies. Rev Neurol (Paris) 2024; 180:290-297. [PMID: 38508955 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurol.2024.03.001] [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: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
The 2017 International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) classification suggested that the term "genetic generalized epilepsies" (GGEs) should be used for the broad group of epilepsies with so-called "generalized" seizure types and "generalized" spike-wave activity on EEG, based on a presumed genetic etiology. Within this framework, idiopathic generalized epilepsies (IGEs) are described as a subset of GGEs and include only four epileptic syndromes: childhood absence epilepsy, juvenile absence epilepsy, juvenile myoclonic epilepsy, and epilepsy with generalized tonic-clonic seizures alone. The recent 2022 ILAE definition of IGEs is based on the current state of knowledge and reflects a community consensus and is designed to evolve as knowledge advances. The term "frontiers of IGEs" refers to the actual limits of our understanding of these four syndromes. Indeed, among patients presenting with a syndrome compatible with the 2022 definition of IGEs, we still observe a significant proportion of patients presenting with specific clinical features, refractory seizures, or drug-resistant epilepsies. This leads to the discussion of the boundaries of IGEs and GGEs, or what is accepted within a clinical spectrum of a definite IGE. Here, we discuss several entities that have been described in the literature for many years and that may either constitute rare features of IGEs or a distinct differential diagnosis. Their recognition by clinicians may allow a more individualized approach and improve the management of patients presenting with such entities.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Gauer
- Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Neurology department, Strasbourg, France; Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Reference Centre for Rare Epilepsies (CRéER), Strasbourg, France.
| | - S Baer
- Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Pediatric Neurology Department, Strasbourg, France; Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Reference Centre for Rare Epilepsies (CRéER), Strasbourg, France
| | - M-P Valenti-Hirsch
- Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Neurology department, Strasbourg, France; Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Reference Centre for Rare Epilepsies (CRéER), Strasbourg, France
| | - A De Saint-Martin
- Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Pediatric Neurology Department, Strasbourg, France; Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Reference Centre for Rare Epilepsies (CRéER), Strasbourg, France
| | - E Hirsch
- Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Neurology department, Strasbourg, France; Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Reference Centre for Rare Epilepsies (CRéER), Strasbourg, France
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10
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Devinsky O, Elder C, Sivathamboo S, Scheffer IE, Koepp MJ. Idiopathic Generalized Epilepsy: Misunderstandings, Challenges, and Opportunities. Neurology 2024; 102:e208076. [PMID: 38165295 PMCID: PMC11097769 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000208076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024] Open
Abstract
The idiopathic generalized epilepsies (IGE) make up a fifth of all epilepsies, but <1% of epilepsy research. This skew reflects misperceptions: diagnosis is straightforward, pathophysiology is understood, seizures are easily controlled, epilepsy is outgrown, morbidity and mortality are low, and surgical interventions are impossible. Emerging evidence reveals that patients with IGE may go undiagnosed or misdiagnosed with focal epilepsy if EEG or semiology have asymmetric or focal features. Genetic, electrophysiologic, and neuroimaging studies provide insights into pathophysiology, including overlaps and differences from focal epilepsies. IGE can begin in adulthood and patients have chronic and drug-resistant seizures. Neuromodulatory interventions for drug-resistant IGE are emerging. Rates of psychiatric and other comorbidities, including sudden unexpected death in epilepsy, parallel those in focal epilepsy. IGE is an understudied spectrum for which our diagnostic sensitivity and specificity, scientific understanding, and therapies remain inadequate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Orrin Devinsky
- From the Comprehensive Epilepsy Center (O.D., C.E.), New York University School of Medicine, New York, Department of Neuroscience (S.S.), Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Department of Neurology (S.S.), Alfred Health, Melbourne; Departments of Medicine and Neurology, The Royal Melbourne Hospital (S.S.), Epilepsy Research Centre, Department of Medicine, Austin Health (I.E.S.), Murdoch Children's Research Institute (I.E.S.), and Department of Pediatrics (I.E.S.), Royal Children's Hospital, The University of Melbourne; The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health (I.E.S.), Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; and Department of Clinical and Experimental Epilepsy (M.J.K.), University College London Institute of Neurology, United Kingdom
| | - Christopher Elder
- From the Comprehensive Epilepsy Center (O.D., C.E.), New York University School of Medicine, New York, Department of Neuroscience (S.S.), Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Department of Neurology (S.S.), Alfred Health, Melbourne; Departments of Medicine and Neurology, The Royal Melbourne Hospital (S.S.), Epilepsy Research Centre, Department of Medicine, Austin Health (I.E.S.), Murdoch Children's Research Institute (I.E.S.), and Department of Pediatrics (I.E.S.), Royal Children's Hospital, The University of Melbourne; The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health (I.E.S.), Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; and Department of Clinical and Experimental Epilepsy (M.J.K.), University College London Institute of Neurology, United Kingdom
| | - Shobi Sivathamboo
- From the Comprehensive Epilepsy Center (O.D., C.E.), New York University School of Medicine, New York, Department of Neuroscience (S.S.), Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Department of Neurology (S.S.), Alfred Health, Melbourne; Departments of Medicine and Neurology, The Royal Melbourne Hospital (S.S.), Epilepsy Research Centre, Department of Medicine, Austin Health (I.E.S.), Murdoch Children's Research Institute (I.E.S.), and Department of Pediatrics (I.E.S.), Royal Children's Hospital, The University of Melbourne; The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health (I.E.S.), Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; and Department of Clinical and Experimental Epilepsy (M.J.K.), University College London Institute of Neurology, United Kingdom
| | - Ingrid E Scheffer
- From the Comprehensive Epilepsy Center (O.D., C.E.), New York University School of Medicine, New York, Department of Neuroscience (S.S.), Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Department of Neurology (S.S.), Alfred Health, Melbourne; Departments of Medicine and Neurology, The Royal Melbourne Hospital (S.S.), Epilepsy Research Centre, Department of Medicine, Austin Health (I.E.S.), Murdoch Children's Research Institute (I.E.S.), and Department of Pediatrics (I.E.S.), Royal Children's Hospital, The University of Melbourne; The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health (I.E.S.), Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; and Department of Clinical and Experimental Epilepsy (M.J.K.), University College London Institute of Neurology, United Kingdom
| | - Matthias J Koepp
- From the Comprehensive Epilepsy Center (O.D., C.E.), New York University School of Medicine, New York, Department of Neuroscience (S.S.), Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Department of Neurology (S.S.), Alfred Health, Melbourne; Departments of Medicine and Neurology, The Royal Melbourne Hospital (S.S.), Epilepsy Research Centre, Department of Medicine, Austin Health (I.E.S.), Murdoch Children's Research Institute (I.E.S.), and Department of Pediatrics (I.E.S.), Royal Children's Hospital, The University of Melbourne; The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health (I.E.S.), Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; and Department of Clinical and Experimental Epilepsy (M.J.K.), University College London Institute of Neurology, United Kingdom
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11
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Yang Y, Shangguan Y, Wang X, Liu R, Shen Z, Tang M, Jiang G. The efficacy and safety of third-generation antiseizure medications and non-invasive brain stimulation to treat refractory epilepsy: a systematic review and network meta-analysis study. Front Neurol 2024; 14:1307296. [PMID: 38264091 PMCID: PMC10804851 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1307296] [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: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The new antiseizure medications (ASMs) and non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS) are controversial in controlling seizures. So, this network meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of five third-generation ASMs and two NIBS therapies for the treatment of refractory epilepsy. Methods We searched PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library and Web of Science databases. Brivaracetam (BRV), cenobamate (CNB), eslicarbazepine acetate (ESL), lacosamide (LCM), perampanel (PER), repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), and transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) were selected as additional treatments for refractory epilepsy in randomized controlled studies and other cohort studies. Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, add-on studies that evaluated the efficacy or safety of medication and non-invasive brain stimulation and included patients with seizures were uncontrolled by one or more concomitant ASMs were identified. A random effects model was used to incorporate possible heterogeneity. The primary outcome was the change in seizure frequency from baseline, and secondary outcomes included the proportion of patients with ≥50% reduction in seizure frequency, and the rate of treatment-emergent adverse events. Results Forty-five studies were analyzed. The five ASMs and two NIBS decreased seizure frequency from baseline compared with placebo. The 50% responder rates of the five antiseizure drugs were significantly higher than that of placebo, and the ASMs were associated with fewer adverse events than placebo (p < 0.05). The surface under the cumulative ranking analysis revealed that ESL was most effective in decreasing the seizure frequency from baseline, whereas CNB provided the best 50% responder rate. BRV was the best tolerated. No significant publication bias was identified for each outcome index. Conclusion The five third-generation ASMs were more effective in controlling seizures than placebo, among which CNB, ESL, and LCM were most effective, and BRV exhibited better safety. Although rTMS and tDCS did not reduce seizure frequency as effectively as the five drugs, their safety was confirmed. Systematic review registration PROSPERO, https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/ (CRD42023441097).
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Yang
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Institute of Neurological Diseases, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
| | - Yafei Shangguan
- Department of Neurology, The First People’s Hospital of Guiyang, Guiyang, China
| | - Xiaoming Wang
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Institute of Neurological Diseases, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
| | - Ruihong Liu
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Institute of Neurological Diseases, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
| | - Ziyi Shen
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Institute of Neurological Diseases, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
| | - Ming Tang
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Institute of Neurological Diseases, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
| | - Guohui Jiang
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Institute of Neurological Diseases, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
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12
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Kerr WT, McFarlane KN. Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence Applications to Epilepsy: a Review for the Practicing Epileptologist. Curr Neurol Neurosci Rep 2023; 23:869-879. [PMID: 38060133 DOI: 10.1007/s11910-023-01318-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Machine Learning (ML) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) are data-driven techniques to translate raw data into applicable and interpretable insights that can assist in clinical decision making. Some of these tools have extremely promising initial results, earning both great excitement and creating hype. This non-technical article reviews recent developments in ML/AI in epilepsy to assist the current practicing epileptologist in understanding both the benefits and limitations of integrating ML/AI tools into their clinical practice. RECENT FINDINGS ML/AI tools have been developed to assist clinicians in almost every clinical decision including (1) predicting future epilepsy in people at risk, (2) detecting and monitoring for seizures, (3) differentiating epilepsy from mimics, (4) using data to improve neuroanatomic localization and lateralization, and (5) tracking and predicting response to medical and surgical treatments. We also discuss practical, ethical, and equity considerations in the development and application of ML/AI tools including chatbots based on Large Language Models (e.g., ChatGPT). ML/AI tools will change how clinical medicine is practiced, but, with rare exceptions, the transferability to other centers, effectiveness, and safety of these approaches have not yet been established rigorously. In the future, ML/AI will not replace epileptologists, but epileptologists with ML/AI will replace epileptologists without ML/AI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wesley T Kerr
- Department of Neurology, University of Pittsburgh, 3471 Fifth Ave, Kaufmann 811.22, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA.
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, University of Pittsburgh, 3471 Fifth Ave, Kaufmann 811.22, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA.
- Department of Neurology, Michigan Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
| | - Katherine N McFarlane
- Department of Neurology, University of Pittsburgh, 3471 Fifth Ave, Kaufmann 811.22, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
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13
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Liu W, Zhang H, Wang P, Zhang E, Wu X, Zhou D. First add-on lacosamide treatment in children with focal epilepsy in China: A multi-centre real-life cohort study. Seizure 2023; 111:158-163. [PMID: 37634354 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2023.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM To assess the effectiveness and safety of lacosamide (LCM) as the first add-on therapy for children with focal epilepsy at multiple centres in China. METHOD Children aged 4-16 years with focal epilepsy from 13 epilepsy centres were included in this study. All patients were treated with LCM as the first add-on treatment and followed up for 26 weeks. The seizure frequency, seizure-free rate, ≥50% response rate, retention rate, and incidence of adverse drug reactions after the addition of LCM were analysed. RESULTS Ninety-nine children (58 males; aged 4-16 years; mean age 8.51 ± 2.95 years) were enroled. The mean age at first seizure was 5.74 ± 3.12 years. All patients were administered LCM as the first add-on treatment for focal epilepsy. Twenty-eight patients (28/99, 28.28%) did not experience seizures during the follow-up period. The ≥50% response rates were 80.81% (80/99), 93.88% (92/98), 98.98% (97/98), and 100.0% (98/98) at 6 weeks (visit two), 10 weeks (visit three), 18 weeks (visit four), and 26 weeks (visit five), respectively, compared to that at baseline (visit one). The intelligence scores decreased in 12 participants, remained unchanged in 64, and increased in 16. Adverse events occurred in three participants during the trial, all of which were mild. INTERPRETATION LCM was effective as the first add-on therapy in this real-life multi-centre study of a paediatric population with focal epilepsy. Further prospective studies with long-term follow-up periods are needed to confirm the effectiveness and tolerability of LCM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenyu Liu
- Departments of Neurology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Hesheng Zhang
- Departments of Neurology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Peiyu Wang
- Departments of Neurology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Enhui Zhang
- Departments of Neurology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Xintong Wu
- Departments of Neurology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.
| | - Dong Zhou
- Departments of Neurology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
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14
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Vossler DG, Rosenfeld WE, Stern S, Wade CT, Ferrari L, Kerr WT, Wechsler R. Sustainability of seizure reduction and seizure control with adjunctive cenobamate: Post hoc analysis of a phase 3, open-label study. Epilepsia 2023; 64:2644-2652. [PMID: 37497579 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Revised: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In this post hoc analysis of a subset of patients from a long-term, open-label phase 3 study, we assessed ≥50%, ≥75%, ≥90%, and 100% seizure reduction and sustainability of these responses with cenobamate using a time-to-event analytical approach. METHODS Of 240 patients with uncontrolled focal seizures who had adequate seizure data available, 214 completed the 12-week titration phase and received ≥1 dose of cenobamate in the maintenance phase (max dose 400 mg/day) and were included in this post hoc analysis. Among patients who met an initial given seizure-reduction level (≥50%, ≥75%, ≥90%, or 100%), sustainability of that response was measured using a time-to-event methodology. An event was defined as the occurrence of a study visit at which the seizure frequency during the interval since the prior study visit exceeded the initially attained reduction level. Study visits during the maintenance phase occurred at 3-month intervals. RESULTS Of the 214 patients analyzed, 188 (88%), 177 (83%), 160 (75%), and 145 (68%) met ≥50%, ≥75%, ≥90%, and 100% seizure-reduction responses, respectively, for at least one study visit interval during the maintenance phase. The median (95% confidence interval [CI]) time to first visit without a ≥50% seizure reduction was not reached by 30 months of follow-up (53% of patients maintained their initial ≥50% seizure reduction). Median (95% CI) time to first visit without sustaining the initial ≥75%, ≥90%, or 100% seizure reduction was 13.0 (7.5-21.9) months, 7.5 (5.4-11.6) months, and 7.0 (5.3-10.4) months, respectively. Among the 145 patients who had 100% seizure reduction during at least one study visit, 22% remained seizure-free for at least 30 months and 63% had ≤3 study visits with seizures. SIGNIFICANCE Adjunctive treatment with cenobamate led to sustained seizure reductions during the maintenance phase of the phase 3 safety study.
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Affiliation(s)
- David G Vossler
- University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - William E Rosenfeld
- Comprehensive Epilepsy Care Center for Children and Adults, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Sean Stern
- SK Life Science Inc., Paramus, New Jersey, USA
| | | | | | - Wesley T Kerr
- Department of Neurology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Robert Wechsler
- Consultants in Epilepsy & Neurology and Idaho Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Boise, Idaho, USA
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Chu H, Zhang X, Shi J, Zhou Z, Yang X. Antiseizure medications for idiopathic generalized epilepsies: a systematic review and network meta-analysis. J Neurol 2023; 270:4713-4728. [PMID: 37378757 PMCID: PMC10511599 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-023-11834-8] [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: 05/18/2023] [Revised: 06/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To compare the efficacy and safety of antiseizure medications (ASMs), both as monotherapies and adjunctive therapies, for idiopathic generalized epilepsies (IGEs) and related entities. METHODS Two reviewers independently searched PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library for relevant randomized controlled trials from December 2022 to February 2023. Studies on the efficacy and safety of ASM monotherapies or adjunctive therapies for IGEs and related entities-including juvenile myoclonic epilepsy, childhood absence epilepsy (CAE), juvenile absence epilepsy, or generalized tonic-clonic seizures alone (GTCA)-were included. Efficacy outcomes were the proportions of patients remaining seizure free for 1, 3, 6, and 12 months; safety outcomes were the proportions of any treatment-emergent adverse event (TEAE) and TEAEs leading to discontinuation. Network meta-analyses were performed in a random-effects model to obtain odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals. Rankings of ASMs were based on the surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA). This study is registered with PROSPERO (No. CRD42022372358). RESULTS Twenty-eight randomized controlled trials containing 4282 patients were included. As monotherapies, all ASMs were more effective than placebo, and valproate and ethosuximide were significantly better than lamotrigine. According to the SUCRA for efficacy, ethosuximide ranked first for CAE, whereas valproate ranked first for other types of IGEs. As adjunctive therapies, topiramate ranked best for GTCA as well as overall for IGEs, while levetiracetam ranked best for myoclonic seizures. For safety, perampanel ranked best (measured by any TEAE). CONCLUSIONS All of the studied ASMs were more effective than placebo. Valproate monotherapy ranked best overall for IGEs, whereas ethosuximide ranked best for CAE. Adjunctive topiramate and levetiracetam were most effective for GTCA and myoclonic seizures, respectively. Furthermore, perampanel had the best tolerability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongyuan Chu
- Department of Pediatrics, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xinyu Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jie Shi
- Department of Neurology, Tsinghua University Yuquan Hospital, Beijing, 100040, China
| | - Zhirui Zhou
- Radiation Oncology Center, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200040, China.
| | - Xu Yang
- Department of Neurology, Peking University Aerospace School of Clinical Medicine (Aerospace Center Hospital), No. 15, Yuquan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100049, China.
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16
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Wang H, Wang H, Liu Y, Zhao J, Niu X, Zhu L, Ma X, Zong Y, Huang Y, Zhang W, Han Y. Efficacy and Safety of Five Broad-Spectrum Antiseizure Medications for Adjunctive Treatment of Refractory Epilepsy: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-analysis. CNS Drugs 2023; 37:883-913. [PMID: 37589821 DOI: 10.1007/s40263-023-01029-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Overall, up to one-third of epilepsy patients have drug-resistant epilepsy. However, there was previously no meta-analysis to support the guidelines for broad-spectrum antiseizure medication selection for the adjunctive treatment of refractory epilepsy. In the present meta-analysis, we assessed the efficacy and safety of three second-generation broad-spectrum antiseizure medications, lamotrigine (LTG), levetiracetam (LEV), and topiramate (TPM), and two third-generation broad-spectrum antiseizure medications, perampanel (PER) and lacosamide (LCM), for the adjunctive treatment of refractory epilepsy. METHODS We systematically searched PubMed, Embase, and CENTRAL from inception to July 15, 2022. The studies included in the meta-analysis were required to meet the following criteria: (1) be randomized, double-blind clinical trials; (2) include patients aged >2 years with a clinical diagnosis of drug-resistant epilepsy; (3) have at least 8 weeks for the treatment period excluding the titration phase; and (4) report the outcomes of seizure response, seizure freedom and the withdrawal rate due to treatment-emergent adverse effects. Data were extracted, and the risk of bias for each study was assessed by two authors independently using RoB2 tools. We performed the network meta-analysis for each outcome through a group of programs in the mvmeta and network packages in Stata. Relative odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals were calculated as the result of the analyses. The surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA) and mean ranks were used to rank these treatments. RESULTS Forty-two randomized controlled trials (RCTs) (LTG-placebo: n = 6, LEV-placebo: n = 13, TPM-placebo: n = 9, PER-placebo: n = 6, LCM-placebo: n = 7, LEV-TPM: n = 1) with 10257 participants (LTG = 569, LEV = 1626, TPM = 701, PER = 1734, LCM = 1908, placebo = 3719) were included. Levetiracetam had subequal efficacy in 50 % seizure frequency reduction to TPM [odds ratio (OR) 1.00, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.73-1.38], and LEV had a higher rate of ≥ 50% seizure frequency reduction than LCM (OR 1.49, 95% CI 1.11-2.01) and PER (OR 1.68, 95% CI 1.24-2.29). Levetiracetam was also related to a higher proportion of seizure freedom participants than TPM (OR 1.87, 95% CI 1.20-2.89), PER (OR 2.23, 95% CI 1.12-4.43), and LCM (OR 2.97, 95% CI 1.46-6.05). In addition, LEV was associated with a lower risk of experiencing at least one treatment-emergent adverse event (TEAE) than PER (OR 0.63, 95% CI 0.46-0.85) and TPM (OR 0.51, 95 % CI 0.36-0.72) and a lower proportion of patients experiencing TEAEs leading to discontinuation than PER (OR 0.51, 95% CI 0.27-0.97) and TPM (OR 0.50, 95 % CI 0.27-0.93). CONCLUSIONS Third-generation drugs (PER and LCM) had no advantages in terms of efficacy and safety for adjunctive treatment of refractory epilepsy compared with several second-generation drugs (LEV and LTG). Levetiracetam was the priority choice for adjunctive treatment of refractory epilepsy. Perampanel and LCM had no advantages in terms of efficacy and safety among the five drugs. REGISTRATION PROSPERO registration number, CRD42022344153; last edited on December 23, 2022.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hecheng Wang
- School of Life and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Dalian University of Technology, Panjin, 124221, China
| | - Haoran Wang
- School of Life and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Dalian University of Technology, Panjin, 124221, China
| | - Yi Liu
- Department of Neurology, Dalian Municipal Central Hospital, Central Hospital of Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, China
| | - Jing Zhao
- School of Life and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Dalian University of Technology, Panjin, 124221, China
| | - Xuewen Niu
- School of Life and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Dalian University of Technology, Panjin, 124221, China
| | - Lei Zhu
- School of Life and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Dalian University of Technology, Panjin, 124221, China
| | - Xiaomin Ma
- School of Life and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Dalian University of Technology, Panjin, 124221, China
| | - Yu Zong
- School of Life and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Dalian University of Technology, Panjin, 124221, China
| | - Yinglin Huang
- Department of Psychiatry, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, China.
| | - Yanshuo Han
- School of Life and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Dalian University of Technology, Panjin, 124221, China.
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Kobayashi Y, Honda R, Yamada K, Hojo M, Miura M, Seki E, Ono T, Tohyama J. Two-year efficacy of lacosamide as adjunctive therapy for generalized tonic-clonic seizures in patients with juvenile myoclonic epilepsy. Brain Dev 2023; 45:451-455. [PMID: 37308336 DOI: 10.1016/j.braindev.2023.05.007] [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: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To report the long-term efficacy of adjunctive lacosamide therapy in patients with juvenile myoclonic epilepsy whose generalized tonic-clonic seizures were significantly reduced by treatment. METHODS A retrospective study was conducted in patients who visited the Department of Child Neurology, National Hospital Organization Nishiniigata Chuo Hospital and the Department of Pediatrics, National Hospital Organization Nagasaki Medical Center. Among patients who had been diagnosed with juvenile myoclonic epilepsy, those who received lacosamide as adjunctive therapy for refractory generalized tonic-clonic seizures for at least 2 years from January 2017 to December 2022, and who achieved seizure freedom or >50% seizure reduction in tonic-clonic seizures were included. The medical records and neurophysiological data of the patients were reviewed retrospectively. RESULTS Four patients met the inclusion criteria. The mean age at the onset of epilepsy was 11.3 years (range 10-12), and the mean age of starting lacosamide was 17.5 years (range 16-21). All patients received two or more antiseizure medications prior to lacosamide. Three of four patients had seizure freedom for more than 2 years, and the one remaining patient had >50% seizure reduction for more than one year. Only one patient had recurrent myoclonic seizures after starting lacosamide. The mean lacosamide dose at the last visit was 425 mg/day (range 300-600). CONCLUSION Adjunctive lacosamide therapy might be a treatment option for juvenile myoclonic epilepsy with generalized tonic-clonic seizures, which are not responsive to standard antiseizure medications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Kobayashi
- Epilepsy Center and Department of Child Neurology, National Hospital Organization Nishiniigata Chuo Hospital, 1-14-1 Masago, Nishi-ku, Niigata 950-2085, Japan.
| | - Ryoko Honda
- Epilepsy Center and Department of Pediatrics, National Hospital Organization Nagasaki Medical Center, 2-1001-1 Kubara, Omura, Nagasaki 856-8562, Japan
| | - Kei Yamada
- Epilepsy Center and Department of Child Neurology, National Hospital Organization Nishiniigata Chuo Hospital, 1-14-1 Masago, Nishi-ku, Niigata 950-2085, Japan
| | - Moemi Hojo
- Epilepsy Center and Department of Child Neurology, National Hospital Organization Nishiniigata Chuo Hospital, 1-14-1 Masago, Nishi-ku, Niigata 950-2085, Japan
| | - Masaki Miura
- Epilepsy Center and Department of Child Neurology, National Hospital Organization Nishiniigata Chuo Hospital, 1-14-1 Masago, Nishi-ku, Niigata 950-2085, Japan
| | - Eijun Seki
- Epilepsy Center and Department of Child Neurology, National Hospital Organization Nishiniigata Chuo Hospital, 1-14-1 Masago, Nishi-ku, Niigata 950-2085, Japan
| | - Tomonori Ono
- Epilepsy Center and Department of Neurosurgery, National Hospital Organization Nagasaki Medical Center, 2-1001-1 Kubara, Omura, Nagasaki 856-8562, Japan
| | - Jun Tohyama
- Epilepsy Center and Department of Child Neurology, National Hospital Organization Nishiniigata Chuo Hospital, 1-14-1 Masago, Nishi-ku, Niigata 950-2085, Japan
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Liu P, He M, Xu X, He Y, Yao W, Liu B. Real-world safety of Lacosamide: A pharmacovigilance study based on spontaneous reports in the FDA adverse event reporting system. Seizure 2023; 110:203-211. [PMID: 37423166 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2023.07.003] [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: 03/18/2023] [Revised: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Lacosamide is licensed for the treatment of focal seizures in both adults and children, however there is little information available on its adverse reactions. Using the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS), we seek to assess adverse occurrences that may be related to Lacosamide. METHODS On the basis of the FAERS database from the fourth quarter of 2008 to the second quarter of 2022, disproportionality analysis was carried out using the reporting odds ratio (ROR) method, the United Kingdom Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency omnbius standard (MHRA) method, and the bayesian confidence propagation neural network (BCPNN) method. We extracted valuable positive signals for designated medical event (DME) screening, focused on the evaluation and comparison of safety signals appearing in DME with system organ classification (SOC) analysis. RESULTS A total of 10,226 adverse reaction reports with Lacosamide as the primary suspect drug were obtained, with 30,960 reported cases, detecting 232 valuable positive signals, involving a total of 20 SOCs, of which the most frequently reported SOCs were nervous system disorders (6537 cases, 55.21%), psychiatric disorders (1530 cases, 12.92%), injury poisoning and procedural complications (1059 cases, 8.94%). According to 232 valuable positive signals with DME screening results, two signals of stevens-johnson syndrome and ventricular fibrillation were consistent with PT signals on the DME list, with the two SOCs focusing on skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders and cardiac disorders, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Our research demonstrates that the clinical use of Lacosamide should be noticed and avoided in relation to ADRs since it raises the risk of cardiac arrest, ventricular fibrillation, stevens-johnson syndrome, and rhabdomyolysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengcheng Liu
- China Pharmaceutical University School of International Pharmaceutical Business, Nanjing 211198, Jiangsu, China
| | - Mengjiao He
- China Pharmaceutical University School of International Pharmaceutical Business, Nanjing 211198, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiaoli Xu
- China Pharmaceutical University School of International Pharmaceutical Business, Nanjing 211198, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yun He
- China Pharmaceutical University School of Science, Nanjing 211198, Jiangsu, China
| | - Wenbing Yao
- China Pharmaceutical University School of International Pharmaceutical Business, Nanjing 211198, Jiangsu, China
| | - Bin Liu
- Department of Neurology, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150001, Heilongjiang, China.
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Kerr WT, Auvin S, Van der Geyten S, Kenney C, Novak G, Fountain NB, Grzeskowiak C, French JA. Time-to-event clinical trial designs: Existing evidence and remaining concerns. Epilepsia 2023; 64:1699-1708. [PMID: 37073881 PMCID: PMC10524279 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 04/20/2023]
Abstract
Well-designed placebo-controlled clinical trials are critical to the development of novel treatments for epilepsy, but their design has not changed for decades. Patients, clinicians, regulators, and innovators all have concerns that recruiting for trials is challenging, in part, due to the static design of maintaining participants for long periods on add-on placebo when there are an increasing number of options for therapy. A traditional trial maintains participants on blinded treatment for a static period (e.g., 12 weeks of maintenance), during which participants on placebo have an elevated risk of sudden unexpected death in epilepsy compared to patients on an active treatment. Time-to-event trials observe participants on blinded treatment until a key event occurs (e.g., post-randomization seizure count matches pre-randomization monthly seizure count). In this article, we review the evidence for these designs based on re-analysis of prior trials, one published trial that used a time-to-second seizure design, and experience from an ongoing blinded trial. We also discuss remaining concerns regarding time-to-event trials. We conclude that, despite potential limitations, time-to-event trials are a potential promising mechanism to make trials more patient friendly and reduce placebo exposure, which are urgent needs to improve safety and increase recruitment to trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wesley T. Kerr
- Department of Neurology, Michigan Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Stéphane Auvin
- Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Service de Neurologie Pédiatrique, Hôpital Robert Debré, Paris, France
- Université Paris-Cité, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale NeuroDiderot, Paris, France
- Institut Universitaire de France, Paris, France
| | - Serge Van der Geyten
- Janssen Research & Development, a Division of Janssen Pharmaceutica NV, Beerse, Belgium
| | | | - Gerald Novak
- Janssen Research & Development, a Division of Janssen Pharmaceutica NV, Beerse, Belgium
| | - Nathan B. Fountain
- Department of Neurology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Caitlin Grzeskowiak
- Research and New Therapies Program, Epilepsy Foundation of America, Maryland, USA
| | - Jacqueline A. French
- Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, New York University, New York City, New York, USA
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Zhao T, Yu LH, Zhang HL, Yu J, Feng J, Wang TT, Sun Y, Li HJ. Long-term effectiveness and safety of lacosamide as adjunctive therapy in children and adolescents with refractory epilepsy: a real-world study. BMC Pediatr 2023; 23:249. [PMID: 37210552 DOI: 10.1186/s12887-023-04039-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/22/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The effectiveness and tolerability of lacosamide (LCM) among Chinese children and adolescents with refractory epilepsy has not yet been established. Therefore, the objective of this study was to assess the effectiveness and tolerability of LCM among children and adolescents with refractory epilepsy in Xinjiang, Northwest China. METHODS Effectiveness was assessed by measuring changes in seizure frequency at 3, 6 and 12 months compared with baseline. Patients that achieved ≥ 50% reduction in the frequency of all seizures per month, relative to baseline, were considered to be responders. RESULTS 105 children and adolescents with refractory epilepsy were enrolled in the study. The responder rates were 47.6%, 39.2%, and 31.9%, respectively at 3, 6, and 12 months. Seizure freedom rates were 32.4%, 28.9%, and 23.6% at 3, 6, and 12 months, respectively. The retention rates at 3, 6, and 12 months were 92.4%, 78.1%, and 69.5%, respectively. The maintenance dose of LCM within the responder group (8.2 ± 4.5 mg·kg- 1·d- 1) was significantly higher compared to the non-responder group (7.3 ± 2.3 mg·kg- 1·d- 1) (p < 0.05). At first follow-up, 44 patients (41.9%) reported experiencing at least one treatment-emergent adverse events. CONCLUSION This real-world study of children and adolescents validated that LCM was both an effective and well-tolerated treatment option for the treatment of refractory epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Zhao
- Department of Pharmacy, People's Hospital of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Urumqi, 830001, Xinjiang, China
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacy of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, People's Hospital of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Urumqi, 830001, Xinjiang, China
| | - Lu-Hai Yu
- Department of Pharmacy, People's Hospital of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Urumqi, 830001, Xinjiang, China
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacy of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, People's Hospital of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Urumqi, 830001, Xinjiang, China
| | - Hui-Lan Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, People's Hospital of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Urumqi, 830001, Xinjiang, China
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacy of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, People's Hospital of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Urumqi, 830001, Xinjiang, China
| | - Jing Yu
- Department of Neurology, Children's Hospital of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Xinjiang Hospital of Beijing Children's Hospital, Urumqi, 830001, Xinjiang, China
| | - Jie Feng
- Department of Pharmacy, People's Hospital of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Urumqi, 830001, Xinjiang, China
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacy of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, People's Hospital of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Urumqi, 830001, Xinjiang, China
| | - Ting-Ting Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, People's Hospital of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Urumqi, 830001, Xinjiang, China
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacy of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, People's Hospital of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Urumqi, 830001, Xinjiang, China
| | - Yan Sun
- Department of Neurology, Children's Hospital of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Xinjiang Hospital of Beijing Children's Hospital, Urumqi, 830001, Xinjiang, China.
| | - Hong-Jian Li
- Department of Pharmacy, People's Hospital of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Urumqi, 830001, Xinjiang, China.
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacy of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, People's Hospital of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Urumqi, 830001, Xinjiang, China.
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Mayo S, Gómez-Manjón I, Marco-Hernández AV, Fernández-Martínez FJ, Camacho A, Martínez F. N-Type Ca Channel in Epileptic Syndromes and Epilepsy: A Systematic Review of Its Genetic Variants. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:6100. [PMID: 37047073 PMCID: PMC10094502 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24076100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Revised: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023] Open
Abstract
N-type voltage-gated calcium channel controls the release of neurotransmitters from neurons. The association of other voltage-gated calcium channels with epilepsy is well-known. The association of N-type voltage-gated calcium channels and pain has also been established. However, the relationship between this type of calcium channel and epilepsy has not been specifically reviewed. Therefore, the present review systematically summarizes existing publications regarding the genetic associations between N-type voltage-dependent calcium channel and epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonia Mayo
- Genetics and Inheritance Research Group, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital 12 de Octubre, 28041 Madrid, Spain
- Department of Genetics, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, 28041 Madrid, Spain
| | - Irene Gómez-Manjón
- Genetics and Inheritance Research Group, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital 12 de Octubre, 28041 Madrid, Spain
- Department of Genetics, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, 28041 Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana Victoria Marco-Hernández
- Neuropediatric Unit, Hospital Universitario Doctor Peset, 46017 Valencia, Spain
- Translational Research in Genetics, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain
| | - Francisco Javier Fernández-Martínez
- Genetics and Inheritance Research Group, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital 12 de Octubre, 28041 Madrid, Spain
- Department of Genetics, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, 28041 Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana Camacho
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Neurology, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Francisco Martínez
- Translational Research in Genetics, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain
- Genomic Unit, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain
- Genetics Unit, Hospital Universitario y Politecnico La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain
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He Z, Li J. The therapeutic effects of lacosamide on epilepsy-associated comorbidities. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1063703. [PMID: 37006477 PMCID: PMC10062524 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1063703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder associated with severe social and psychological effects, and most epilepsy patients often report at least one comorbidity. Accumulating evidence have suggested that lacosamide, a new generation of anti-seizure medications, may exhibit efficacy in the management of both epilepsy and its related comorbidities. Therefore, this narrative review aimed to elucidate the recent advancements regarding the therapeutic role of lacosamide in epilepsy-associated comorbidities. The possible pathophysiological mechanisms between epilepsy and epilepsy-associated comorbidities have been also partially described. Whether lacosamide improves cognitive and behavioral functions in patients with epilepsy has not been conclusively established. Some studies support that lacosamide may alleviate anxiety and depression in epilepsy patients. In addition, lacosamide has been found to be safe and effective in the treatment of epilepsy in people with intellectual disabilities, epilepsy of cerebrovascular etiology, and epilepsy associated with brain tumors. Moreover, lacosamide treatment has demonstrated fewer side effects on other systems. Hence, future larger and higher quality clinical studies are needed to further explore both the safety and efficacy of lacosamide in the treatment of epilepsy-associated comorbidities.
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23
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Increasing use of newer antiseizure medication during pregnancy: An observational study with special focus on lacosamide. Seizure 2023; 107:107-113. [PMID: 37003184 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2023.02.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Epilepsy is a common neurological disease requiring long-term therapy also during pregnancy. Most studies on pregnancy outcomes in women with epilepsy are based on antiseizure medication (ASM) in monotherapy. However, about 20-30% of epilepsy patients require polytherapy and newer ASMs are an option, when seizure control is not achieved with first line ASMs. METHODS Observational study evaluating the use of newer ASMs with marketing authorization since 2005 reported to the Embryotox Center of Clinical Teratology and Drug Safety in Pregnancy between 2004 and 2019. In addition, course and outcome of lacosamide exposed pregnancies were analysed. RESULTS Our study confirms the increasing use of newer ASMs also in pregnant women. This is especially true for lacosamide, eslicarbazepine and brivaracetam with rising numbers of exposed pregnancies soon after marketing authorization. Analysis of 55 prospectively and 10 retrospectively ascertained lacosamide exposed pregnancies does not indicate increased risks of major birth defects or spontaneous abortion. However, bradycardia observed in 3 neonates might be related to prenatal lacosamide exposure. CONCLUSION Available data do not support the assumption of lacosamide being a major teratogen. The increasing use of newer ASMs during pregnancy underscores the need for more studies to guide preconception counselling, especially for lacosamide, eslicarbazepine and brivaracetam.
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Kerr WT, Brandt C, Ngo LY, Patten A, Cheng JY, Kramer L, French JA. Time to exceed pre-randomization monthly seizure count for perampanel in participants with primary generalized tonic-clonic seizures: A potential clinical end point. Epilepsia 2022; 63:2994-3004. [PMID: 36106379 PMCID: PMC9828687 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Revised: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the exploratory time to exceed pre-randomization seizure count (T-PSC) in the determination of efficacy of adjunctive perampanel in participants with primary generalized tonic-clonic (PGTC) seizures in generalized-onset epilepsy. METHODS In this multicenter, double-blind study (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT01393743), participants ≥12 years of age with treatment-resistant idiopathic generalized epilepsy were randomized to receive placebo or adjunctive perampanel (≤8 mg/day) across a 17-week double-blind treatment phase (4-week titration; 13-week maintenance). We evaluated the pre-planned exploratory end point of the T-PSC using a Kaplan-Meier analysis. We also re-evaluated the correspondence of the primary end points of median percent seizure frequency change (MPC) and 50% responder rate (50RR) calculated at T-PSC and at the end of the trial. RESULTS The exploratory end point of median T-PSC on placebo was 43 days and >120 days on perampanel (log-rank p < .001). The primary end points calculated at T-PSC did not differ significantly from the end points at the end of the trial (MPC -31% vs -42% at T-PSC; 50RR 32% vs 51% at T-PSC). After T-PSC was reached, participants had a median (interquartile range) of 5 (3-13) additional seizures on placebo and 5 (2-10) on perampanel. SIGNIFICANCE The exploratory end point of T-PSC demonstrated the effectiveness of perampanel despite a shorter duration of monitoring. The seizures that occurred after T-PSC did not influence the conclusions of the trial; therefore, T-PSC may be a viable alternative to traditional trial end points that reduces the risk to participants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wesley T. Kerr
- Department of NeurologyUniversity of MichiganAnn ArborMichiganUSA
| | - Christian Brandt
- Bethel Epilepsy CenterUniversity Hospital for EpileptologyBielefeldGermany
| | - Leock Y. Ngo
- Department of NeurologyEisai Inc.NutleyNew JerseyUSA
| | | | | | - Lynn Kramer
- Department of NeurologyEisai Inc.NutleyNew JerseyUSA
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Yang C, Yang Y, Peng Y, Zhang L, Yu D. Efficacy and safety of lacosamide in pediatric patients with epilepsy: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Epilepsy Behav 2022; 134:108781. [PMID: 35914435 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2022.108781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2022] [Revised: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Lacosamide (LCM), is a third-generation antiseizure medicine, with limited clinical evidence for use in pediatric populations. We aimed to evaluate evidence for the efficacy and safety of LCM in pediatric patients with epilepsy. METHODS A systematic review was performed using literature published from inception to February 2022 identified in MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Library, and four Chinese databases. Efficacy and safety outcome data were collected, and a meta-analysis was performed. RESULT Twenty-one studies involving 1230 pediatric patients were included. The median percent reduction in seizure frequency per 28 days from baseline to maintenance was 33.1% (95% confidence interval [CI] 22.7%, 43.5%). After 6 months of treatment, the 50%, 75%, and 100% responder rates were 53.3% (95% CI 40.7%, 65.9%), 28.3% (95% CI 20.8%, 35.8%), and 20.4% (95% CI 12.6%, 28.2%), respectively. After 12 months of treatment, the 50%, 75%, and 100% responder rates were 42.0% (95% CI 29.5%, 54.5%), 19.5% (95% CI 11.1%, 27.8%), and 15.2% (95% CI 6.6%, 23.8%), respectively. The most common adverse events (AEs) were drowsiness (15.0%), dizziness (9.9%), and somnolence (8.3%). CONCLUSION Lacosamide is generally effective and well tolerated to use in children with epilepsy. However, further research with high-quality data and long-term follow-up of LCM use in pediatric populations is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunsong Yang
- Department of Pharmacy, Evidence-based Pharmacy Center, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, China; Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, China
| | - Yang Yang
- Department of Trauma Center Ward 2, West China Hospital, Sichuan University/West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, China
| | - Yuxuan Peng
- Department of Trauma Center Ward 2, West China Hospital, Sichuan University/West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, China
| | - Lingli Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Evidence-based Pharmacy Center, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, China; Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, China.
| | - Dan Yu
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, China; Department of Children's Genetic Endocrinology and Metabolism, China; West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, China
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Ahn S, Oh J, Kim D, Son H, Hwang S, Shin H, Kim EY, Lee H, Lee W, Moon J, Lee S, Jung K, Park K, Jung K, Lee S, Yu K, Chu K, Lee SK. Effects of
CYP2C19
genetic polymorphisms on the pharmacokinetics of lacosamide in Korean patients with epilepsy. Epilepsia 2022; 63:2958-2969. [DOI: 10.1111/epi.17399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Revised: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Seon‐Jae Ahn
- Department of Neurology Seoul National University Hospital Seoul South Korea
- Hospital Medicine Center Seoul National University Hospital Seoul South Korea
| | - Jaeseong Oh
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics Seoul National University Hospital Seoul South Korea
| | - Do‐Yong Kim
- Department of Neurology Seoul National University Hospital Seoul South Korea
| | - Hyoshin Son
- Hospital Medicine Center Seoul National University Hospital Seoul South Korea
- Department of Neurosurgery Seoul National University Hospital Seoul South Korea
| | - Sungeun Hwang
- Department of Neurology Ewha Womans University Mokdong Hospital Seoul South Korea
| | - Hye‐Rim Shin
- Department of Neurology Dankook University Hospital Cheonan‐si Chungcheongnam‐do South Korea
| | - Eun Young Kim
- Department of Neurology Chungnam National University Sejong Hospital Sejong South Korea
| | - Han‐Sang Lee
- Department of Neurology Seoul National University Hospital Seoul South Korea
- Hospital Medicine Center Seoul National University Hospital Seoul South Korea
| | - Woo‐Jin Lee
- Hospital Medicine Center Seoul National University Hospital Seoul South Korea
| | - Jangsup Moon
- Department of Neurology Seoul National University Hospital Seoul South Korea
- Department of Genomic Medicine Seoul National University Hospital Seoul South Korea
| | - Soon‐Tae Lee
- Department of Neurology Seoul National University Hospital Seoul South Korea
| | - Keun‐Hwa Jung
- Department of Neurology Seoul National University Hospital Seoul South Korea
| | - Kyung‐Il Park
- Department of Neurology Seoul National University Hospital Seoul South Korea
- Department of Neurology Seoul National University Hospital Healthcare System Gangnam Center Seoul South Korea
| | - Ki‐Young Jung
- Department of Neurology Seoul National University Hospital Seoul South Korea
| | - SeungHwan Lee
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics Seoul National University Hospital Seoul South Korea
| | - Kyung‐Sang Yu
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics Seoul National University Hospital Seoul South Korea
| | - Kon Chu
- Department of Neurology Seoul National University Hospital Seoul South Korea
| | - Sang Kun Lee
- Department of Neurology Seoul National University Hospital Seoul South Korea
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Abstract
EDITORS NOTE The article "Update on Antiseizure Medications 2022" by Dr Abou-Khalil was first published in the February 2016 Epilepsy issue of Continuum: Lifelong Learning in Neurology as "Antiepileptic Drugs," and at the request of the Editor-in-Chief was updated by Dr Abou-Khalil for the 2019 issue and again for this issue.
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Genetic generalized epilepsies in adults - challenging assumptions and dogmas. Nat Rev Neurol 2022; 18:71-83. [PMID: 34837042 DOI: 10.1038/s41582-021-00583-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Genetic generalized epilepsy (GGE) syndromes start during childhood or adolescence, and four commonly persist into adulthood, making up 15-20% of all cases of epilepsy in adults. These four GGE syndromes are childhood absence epilepsy, juvenile absence epilepsy, juvenile myoclonic epilepsy and epilepsy with generalized tonic-clonic seizures alone. However, in ~20% of patients with GGE, characteristics of more than one syndrome are present. Novel insights into the genetic aetiology, comorbidities and prognosis of the GGE syndromes have emerged and challenge traditional concepts about these conditions. Evidence has shown that the mode of inheritance in GGE is mostly polygenic. Neuropsychological and imaging studies indicate similar abnormalities in unaffected relatives of patients with GGE, supporting the concept that underlying alterations in bilateral frontothalamocortical networks are genetically determined. Contrary to popular belief, first-line anti-seizure medication often fails to provide seizure freedom in combination with good tolerability. Nevertheless, long-term follow-up studies have shown that with advancing age, many patients can discontinue their anti-seizure medication without seizure relapses. Several outcome predictors have been identified, but prognosis across the syndromes is more homogeneous than previously assumed. Overall, overlap in pathophysiology, seizure types, treatment responses and outcomes support the idea that GGEs are not separate nosological entities but represent a neurobiological continuum.
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Evidence for Inhibitory Perturbations on the Amplitude, Gating, and Hysteresis of A-Type Potassium Current, Produced by Lacosamide, a Functionalized Amino Acid with Anticonvulsant Properties. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23031171. [PMID: 35163091 PMCID: PMC8835568 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23031171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Revised: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Lacosamide (Vimpat®, LCS) is widely known as a functionalized amino acid with promising anti-convulsant properties; however, adverse events during its use have gradually appeared. Despite its inhibitory effect on voltage-gated Na+ current (INa), the modifications on varying types of ionic currents caused by this drug remain largely unexplored. In pituitary tumor (GH3) cells, we found that the presence of LCS concentration-dependently decreased the amplitude of A-type K+ current (IK(A)) elicited in response to membrane depolarization. The IK(A) amplitude in these cells was sensitive to attenuation by the application of 4-aminopyridine, 4-aminopyridine-3-methanol, or capsaicin but not by that of tetraethylammonium chloride. The effective IC50 value required for its reduction in peak or sustained IK(A) was calculated to be 102 or 42 µM, respectively, while the value of the dissociation constant (KD) estimated from the slow component in IK(A) inactivation at varying LCS concentrations was 52 µM. By use of two-step voltage protocol, the presence of this drug resulted in a rightward shift in the steady-state inactivation curve of IK(A) as well as in a slowing in the recovery time course of the current block; however, no change in the gating charge of the inactivation curve was detected in its presence. Moreover, the LCS addition led to an attenuation in the degree of voltage-dependent hysteresis for IK(A) elicitation by long-duration triangular ramp voltage commands. Likewise, the IK(A) identified in mouse mHippoE-14 neurons was also sensitive to block by LCS, coincident with an elevation in the current inactivation rate. Collectively, apart from its canonical action on INa inhibition, LCS was effective at altering the amplitude, gating, and hysteresis of IK(A) in excitable cells. The modulatory actions on IK(A), caused by LCS, could interfere with the functional activities of electrically excitable cells (e.g., pituitary tumor cells or hippocampal neurons).
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Steriade C, Sperling MR, DiVentura B, Lozano M, Shellhaas RA, Kessler SK, Dlugos D, French J. Proposal for an updated seizure classification framework in clinical trials. Epilepsia 2022; 63:565-572. [PMID: 34997581 PMCID: PMC9302660 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2021] [Revised: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) seizure classification scheme has been periodically updated to improve its reliability and applicability to clinicians and researchers alike. Here, members of the Epilepsy Study Consortium propose a pragmatic seizure classification, based on the ILAE scheme, designed for use in clinical trials with a focus on outcome measures that have high reliability, broad interpretability across stakeholders, and clinical relevance in the context of the development of novel antiseizure medications. Controversies around the current ILAE classification scheme are discussed in the context of clinical trials, and pragmatic simplifications to the existing scheme are proposed, for intended use by investigators, industry sponsors, and regulatory agencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claude Steriade
- New York University Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, New York, New York, USA.,Epilepsy Study Consortium, Reston, Virginia, USA
| | - Michael R Sperling
- Epilepsy Study Consortium, Reston, Virginia, USA.,Department of Neurology, Jefferson Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | | | - Meryl Lozano
- Epilepsy Study Consortium, Reston, Virginia, USA
| | - Renée A Shellhaas
- Epilepsy Study Consortium, Reston, Virginia, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Sudha Kilaru Kessler
- Epilepsy Study Consortium, Reston, Virginia, USA.,Departments of Neurology and Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Dennis Dlugos
- Epilepsy Study Consortium, Reston, Virginia, USA.,Departments of Neurology and Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Jacqueline French
- New York University Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, New York, New York, USA.,Epilepsy Study Consortium, Reston, Virginia, USA
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Eslicarbazepine Acetate as Adjunctive Therapy for Primary Generalized Tonic-Clonic Seizures in Adults: A Prospective Observational Study. CNS Drugs 2022; 36:1113-1119. [PMID: 36178588 PMCID: PMC9550753 DOI: 10.1007/s40263-022-00954-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Eslicarbazepine acetate (ESL), a novel sodium channel blocker, is approved for mono and adjunctive treatment of partial epileptic seizures with or without secondary generalization. Its efficacy in primary generalized seizures has not yet been evaluated. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the efficacy and safety of ESL in primary generalized tonic-clonic seizures (PGTCS) in an observational study. METHODS The data were collected from a prospective population-based register. Effectiveness was measured as relative reduction in standardized seizure frequency (SSF), responder rate (≥ 50% reduction in SSF), and seizure freedom rate at 6 and 12 months after initiation of ESL. Safety and tolerability were evaluated using patients' diaries. RESULTS Fifty-six adult patients with PGTCS were treated with ESL as adjunctive therapy. Of these, 30.4% (n = 17) had myoclonic seizures in addition to PGTCS. The retention rate after 12 months was 80.4% (n = 45). After initiating ESL therapy, reduction in SSF for PGTCS on ESL was 56.0% after 6 months and 56.9% after 12 months (p < 0.01), whereas myoclonic seizures did not show any significant improvement in frequency. The responder rate for PGTCS was 64.3% after 6 months and 66.1% after 12 months, and seizure freedom was achieved in 32.1% and 35.7%, respectively. Forty-three patients (73.2%) reported no side effects. Among the reported side effects of ESL therapy, headache (7.1%), dizziness (8.9%), tiredness (7.1%), nausea (5.4%), and hyponatremia (5.4%) were the most prevalent. CONCLUSIONS Our data suggest that ESL may provide additional benefits in the treatment of patients with PGTCS and motivate randomized controlled trials in this indication.
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Szaflarski JP. A "Sodium Drug" for Generalized Epilepsy? A Mystery That Still Needs to be Solved. Epilepsy Curr 2021; 21:326-328. [PMID: 34924824 PMCID: PMC8655255 DOI: 10.1177/15357597211025132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
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Cerulli Irelli E, Morano A, Fanella M, Orlando B, Salamone EM, Giallonardo AT, Di Bonaventura C. Reconsidering the role of selective sodium channel blockers in genetic generalized epilepsy. Acta Neurol Scand 2021; 144:647-654. [PMID: 34314016 DOI: 10.1111/ane.13509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2021] [Revised: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Selective sodium channel blockers (SSCBs) have a limited use in genetic generalized epilepsy (GGE), due to their well-known risk of seizure worsening. Although their therapeutic potential in GGE has been suggested by recent evidence, electro-clinical data supporting their prescription are lacking. We aimed to investigate SSCB safety and effectiveness in a GGE cohort. METHODS Subjects who received SSCBs and had ≥5-year follow-up were enrolled. Lamotrigine was excluded from analysis due to its broader pharmacodynamic spectrum and its better-documented efficacy in GGE. RESULTS Fifty-six patients (median follow-up 28.5 years) were included. The most used SSCB was carbamazepine in 40 subjects. At the last medical observation, only 9 subjects were still receiving SSCBs. The occurrence of generalized polyspike-wave discharges (GPSWDs) predicted reduced SSCB retention in Cox multivariate analysis. A seizure reduction ≥50% occurred in 53.5% (30/56) of subjects when considering all seizure types; however, the proportion of responders increased to 67.9% when considering only generalized tonic-clonic seizures (GTCS). GPSWDs were significantly associated with a reduced response rate, whereas GGE with GTCS only syndrome with a better outcome. The switch from SSCBs to antiseizure medications licensed for GGE improved seizure control in 65% of patients. Seizure worsening was reported in 5/56 patients; juvenile myoclonic epilepsy and a family history of epilepsy were significantly associated with seizure aggravation. CONCLUSION SSCBs appeared effective on GTCS, but epilepsy aggravation and unsatisfactory control of other seizure types were not uncommon. Our study contributes to identifying new clinical and EEG variables associated with SSCB effectiveness and safety which may help neurologists in patients' management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emanuele Cerulli Irelli
- Epilepsy Unit Department of Human Neurosciences Policlinico Umberto I Sapienza University of Rome Italy
| | - Alessandra Morano
- Epilepsy Unit Department of Human Neurosciences Policlinico Umberto I Sapienza University of Rome Italy
| | - Martina Fanella
- Epilepsy Unit Department of Human Neurosciences Policlinico Umberto I Sapienza University of Rome Italy
| | - Biagio Orlando
- Epilepsy Unit Department of Human Neurosciences Policlinico Umberto I Sapienza University of Rome Italy
| | - Enrico M Salamone
- Epilepsy Unit Department of Human Neurosciences Policlinico Umberto I Sapienza University of Rome Italy
| | - Anna T Giallonardo
- Epilepsy Unit Department of Human Neurosciences Policlinico Umberto I Sapienza University of Rome Italy
| | - Carlo Di Bonaventura
- Epilepsy Unit Department of Human Neurosciences Policlinico Umberto I Sapienza University of Rome Italy
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Asadi-Pooya AA, Beniczky S, Rubboli G, Sperling MR, Rampp S, Perucca E. The EpiPick algorithm to select appropriate antiseizure medications in patients with epilepsy: Validation studies and updates. Epilepsia 2021; 63:254-255. [PMID: 34797915 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ali A Asadi-Pooya
- Epilepsy Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.,Jefferson Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Department of Neurology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Sándor Beniczky
- Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, Danish Epilepsy Centre (member of the ERN EpiCARE), Dianalund, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University and Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Guido Rubboli
- Department of Neurology, Danish Epilepsy Centre (member of the ERN EpiCARE), Dianalund, Denmark.,University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Michael R Sperling
- Jefferson Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Department of Neurology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Stefan Rampp
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany.,Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital Halle, Halle, Germany
| | - Emilio Perucca
- Department of Neuroscience, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Yamada H, Neshige S, Shishido T, Ueno H, Ohshita T, Morino H, Maruyama H. Efficacy of Lacosamide in a Patient with Refractory Generalized Epilepsy Based on Video Electroencephalography. Intern Med 2021; 60:3621-3624. [PMID: 34053987 PMCID: PMC8666217 DOI: 10.2169/internalmedicine.7295-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
A 20-year-old man with drug-resistant generalized epilepsy (GE) was admitted for video electroencephalography (vEEG) monitoring under treatment with multiple antiepileptic drugs, including levetiracetam (3,000 mg/day), valproic acid (800 mg/day), and lacosamide (LCM) (100 mg/day). No seizures were noted after the withdrawal of levetiracetam. However, after the withdrawal of LCM, atypical absence seizures with a 2- to 2.5-Hz generalized spike and wave complex frequently appeared, followed by subsequent generalized-onset tonic-clonic seizures. After re-administration of LCM, the seizures and epileptic discharges clearly disappeared. Subsequent LCM titration was successful in achieving a seizure-free status. Our vEEG results suggest that LCM may be a worthwhile antiepileptic drug adjunct in refractory GE patients without a risk of worsening absence seizures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hidetada Yamada
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience and Therapeutics, Hiroshima University Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Japan
| | - Shuichiro Neshige
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience and Therapeutics, Hiroshima University Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Japan
- Epilepsy Center, Hiroshima University Hospital, Japan
| | - Takeo Shishido
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience and Therapeutics, Hiroshima University Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Japan
- Department of Neurology, National Hospital Organization Yanai Medical Center, Japan
| | - Hiroki Ueno
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience and Therapeutics, Hiroshima University Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Japan
- Epilepsy Center, Hiroshima University Hospital, Japan
| | - Tomohiko Ohshita
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience and Therapeutics, Hiroshima University Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Morino
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience and Therapeutics, Hiroshima University Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Japan
| | - Hirofumi Maruyama
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience and Therapeutics, Hiroshima University Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Japan
- Epilepsy Center, Hiroshima University Hospital, Japan
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36
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Yang C, Peng Y, Zhang L, Zhao L. Safety and Tolerability of Lacosamide in Patients With Epilepsy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:694381. [PMID: 34616294 PMCID: PMC8488108 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.694381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: As a third-generation antiseizure medication (ASM), lacosamide (LCM) is recommended worldwide for patients with epilepsy. We aimed to provide more conclusive evidence for the safety and tolerability of LCM in patients with epilepsy. Methods: A systematic search was performed on MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Library, CBM, CNKI, IDB, VIP Database, and Wanfang Database from inception to 2021 March, and all studies assessing the safety of LCM were included. A meta-analysis was performed for safety data of LCM. Results: Eighty-three studies involving 12268 populations (11 randomized clinical trials (RCTs), 16 cohort studies, 53 case series, and 3 case reports) were included in our study. Meta-analysis of the total incidence of adverse events (AEs) of LCM was 38.7% [95% CI (35.1%, 45.8%); n=75 studies]. Incidence of withdrawal due to AEs was 10.8% [95% CI (9.1%, 12.6%); n=56 studies], and incidence of serious adverse events (SAEs) was 6.5% [95% CI (4.0%, 8.9%); n=13 studies]. Most AEs were in the nervous system and digestive system. The most common AEs were sedation (15.8%), dizziness (15.7%), fatigue (9.4%), and nausea/vomiting (9.3%). For children, the total incidence of AEs of LCM was 32.8% [95% CI (21.6%, 44.0%); n=16 studies], and the most common AEs were dizziness (8.6%), nausea/vomiting (8.6%), and somnolence (6.8%). Conclusion: Lacosamide is generally safe and well tolerated in patients with epilepsy. Common AEs were sedation, dizziness, and fatigue. It is necessary to pay more attention to the prevention and management of these AEs and conduct more large-scale and high-quality studies to update safety data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunsong Yang
- Department of Pharmacy, Evidence-Based Pharmacy Center, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, Chengdu, China
| | - Yuxuan Peng
- West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Lingli Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Evidence-Based Pharmacy Center, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, Chengdu, China
| | - Li Zhao
- Department of Health Policy and Management, West China School of Public Health/West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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Hakami T. Efficacy and tolerability of antiseizure drugs. Ther Adv Neurol Disord 2021; 14:17562864211037430. [PMID: 34603506 PMCID: PMC8481725 DOI: 10.1177/17562864211037430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Drug-resistant epilepsy occurs in 25-30% of patients. Furthermore, treatment with a first-generation antiseizure drug (ASD) fails in 30-40% of individuals because of their intolerable adverse effects. Over the past three decades, 20 newer- (second- and third-)generation ASDs with unique mechanisms of action and pharmacokinetic profiles have been introduced into clinical practice. This advent has expanded the therapeutic armamentarium of epilepsy and broadens the choices of ASDs to match the individual patient's characteristics. In recent years, research has been focused on defining the ASD of choice for different seizure types. In 2017, the International League Against Epilepsy published a new classification for seizure types and epilepsy syndrome. This classification has been of paramount importance to accurately classify the patient's seizure type(s) and prescribe the ASD that is appropriate. A year later, the American Academy of Neurology published a new guideline for ASD selection in adult and pediatric patients with new-onset and treatment-resistant epilepsy. The guideline primarily relied on studies that compare the first-generation and second-generation ASDs, with limited data for the efficacy of third-generation drugs. While researchers have been called for investigating those drugs in future research, epilepsy specialists may wish to share their personal experiences to support the treatment guidelines. Given the rapid advances in the development of ASDs in recent years and the continuous updates in definitions, classifications, and treatment guidelines for seizure types and epilepsy syndromes, this review aims to present a complete overview of the current state of the literature about the efficacy and tolerability of ASDs and provide guidance to clinicians about selecting appropriate ASDs for initial treatment of epilepsy according to different seizure types and epilepsy syndromes based on the current literature and recent US and UK practical guidelines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tahir Hakami
- The Faculty of Medicine, Jazan University, P.O. Box 114, Jazan 45142, Saudi Arabia
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38
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van Opijnen MP, van der Meer PB, Dirven L, Fiocco M, Kouwenhoven MCM, van den Bent MJ, Taphoorn MJB, Koekkoek JAF. The effectiveness of antiepileptic drug treatment in glioma patients: lamotrigine versus lacosamide. J Neurooncol 2021; 154:73-81. [PMID: 34196916 PMCID: PMC8367894 DOI: 10.1007/s11060-021-03800-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Purpose Optimal treatment with antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) is an important part of care for brain tumor patients with epileptic seizures. Lamotrigine and lacosamide are both examples of frequently used non-enzyme inducing AEDs with limited to no drug-drug interactions, reducing the risk of unfavorable side effects. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of lamotrigine versus lacosamide. Methods In this multicenter study we retrospectively analyzed data of patients with diffuse grade 2–4 glioma with epileptic seizures. All patients received either lamotrigine or lacosamide during the course of their disease after treatment failure of first-line monotherapy with levetiracetam or valproic acid. Primary outcome was the cumulative incidence of treatment failure, from initiation of lamotrigine or lacosamide, with death as competing event, for which a competing risk model was used. Secondary outcomes were uncontrolled seizures after AED initiation and level of toxicity. Results We included a total of 139 patients of whom 61 (44%) used lamotrigine and 78 (56%) used lacosamide. At 12 months, there was no statistically significant difference in the cumulative incidence of treatment failure for any reason between lamotrigine and lacosamide: 38% (95%CI 26–51%) versus 30% (95%CI 20–41%), respectively. The adjusted hazard ratio for treatment failure of lacosamide compared to lamotrigine was 0.84 (95%CI 0.46–1.56). The cumulative incidences of treatment failure due to uncontrolled seizures (18% versus 11%) and due to adverse events (17% versus 19%) did not differ significantly between lamotrigine and lacosamide. Conclusion Lamotrigine and lacosamide show similar effectiveness in diffuse glioma patients with epilepsy. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s11060-021-03800-z.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark P van Opijnen
- Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Center, PO BOX 9600, 2300 RC, Leiden, The Netherlands.
| | - Pim B van der Meer
- Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Center, PO BOX 9600, 2300 RC, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Linda Dirven
- Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Center, PO BOX 9600, 2300 RC, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Neurology, Haaglanden Medical Center, The Hague, The Netherlands
| | - Marta Fiocco
- Department of Biomedical Data Sciences, Medical Statistics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Mathematical Institute, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Mathilde C M Kouwenhoven
- Department of Neurology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, location VUmc, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Martin J B Taphoorn
- Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Center, PO BOX 9600, 2300 RC, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Neurology, Haaglanden Medical Center, The Hague, The Netherlands
| | - Johan A F Koekkoek
- Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Center, PO BOX 9600, 2300 RC, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Neurology, Haaglanden Medical Center, The Hague, The Netherlands
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Mermi Dibek D, Öztura İ, Baklan B. Our reasons for converting to valproic acid treatment in female patients with genetic generalized epilepsy: a retrospective, single-centre study. Neurol Sci 2021; 43:517-523. [PMID: 33890162 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-021-05261-8] [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: 01/11/2021] [Accepted: 04/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND AIM Valproic acid (Na valproate) is a broad-spectrum anti-seizure medication used in children and adolescents. It is thought to have fewer adverse effects; however, recent studies have restricted its use in women of reproductive age due to the teratogenic impacts on cognition. Although alternative drugs have been used to treat patients in clinical follow-up, some patients have to return to using valproic acid. Our study aimed to determine the rate of return to valproic acid treatment in female patients with follow-up in our centre and the reasons for the return. MATERIALS AND METHODS Female patients with genetic generalized epilepsy who were followed up in our centre were included in the study. Patient data were retrospectively obtained from file records. The patients were grouped by seizure subgroups, antiepileptic treatment used, electroencephalography characteristics, and seizure treatment response. RESULTS Sixty-three (31.7%) of the 199 patients had to return to VPA treatment. When the reasons for the discontinuation of other drugs were examined, non-response to treatment was found in 80.0% of patients, adverse medication effects in 18.3%, and 1.7% continued voluntarily. Patients who are JAE subtypes were more likely to return to VPA treatment than GTCS alone subtypes. A total of 7.4% of patients converted to VPA therapy had continued myoclonic seizures compared with 20.4% of patients treated with alternative drugs. CONCLUSION VPA treatment is not used as the first choice in females of reproductive age; however, some patients will only achieve seizure control with valproate, especially those with myoclonic seizures and JAE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dilara Mermi Dibek
- Department of Neurology, Clinical Neurophysiology, Faculty of Medicine, Dokuz Eylul University, İzmir, Turkey.
| | - İbrahim Öztura
- Department of Neurology, Clinical Neurophysiology, Faculty of Medicine, Dokuz Eylul University, İzmir, Turkey
| | - Barış Baklan
- Department of Neurology, Clinical Neurophysiology, Faculty of Medicine, Dokuz Eylul University, İzmir, Turkey
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Carona A, Bicker J, Silva R, Fonseca C, Falcão A, Fortuna A. Pharmacology of lacosamide: From its molecular mechanisms and pharmacokinetics to future therapeutic applications. Life Sci 2021; 275:119342. [PMID: 33713668 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2021.119342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Revised: 02/19/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Epilepsy is one of the most common brain disorders, affecting more than 50 million people worldwide. Although its treatment is currently symptomatic, the last generation of anti-seizure drugs is characterized by better pharmacokinetic profiles, efficacy, tolerability and safety. Lacosamide is a third-generation anti-seizure drug that stands out due to its good efficacy and safety profile. It is used with effectiveness in the treatment of partial-onset seizures with or without secondary generalization, primary generalized tonic-clonic seizures and off-label in status epilepticus. Despite scarcely performed until today, therapeutic drug monitoring of lacosamide is proving to be advantageous by allowing the control of inter and intra-individual variability and promoting a successful personalized therapy, particularly in special populations. Herein, the pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, and clinical data of lacosamide were reviewed, giving special emphasis to the latest molecular investigations underlying its mechanism of action and therapeutic applications in pathologies besides epilepsy. In addition, the pharmacokinetic characteristics of lacosamide were updated, as well as current literature concerning the high pharmacokinetic variability observed in special patient populations and that must be considered during treatment individualization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreia Carona
- University of Coimbra, Faculty of Pharmacy, Coimbra, Portugal; University of Coimbra, Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Joana Bicker
- University of Coimbra, Faculty of Pharmacy, Coimbra, Portugal; University of Coimbra, Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Rui Silva
- University of Coimbra, Faculty of Pharmacy, Coimbra, Portugal; University of Coimbra, Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Carla Fonseca
- University of Coimbra, Faculty of Pharmacy, Coimbra, Portugal; University of Coimbra, Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Amílcar Falcão
- University of Coimbra, Faculty of Pharmacy, Coimbra, Portugal; University of Coimbra, Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ana Fortuna
- University of Coimbra, Faculty of Pharmacy, Coimbra, Portugal; University of Coimbra, Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research, Coimbra, Portugal.
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Rahim F, Azizimalamiri R, Sayyah M, Malayeri A. Experimental Therapeutic Strategies in Epilepsies Using Anti-Seizure Medications. J Exp Pharmacol 2021; 13:265-290. [PMID: 33732031 PMCID: PMC7959000 DOI: 10.2147/jep.s267029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Epilepsies are among the most common neurological problems. The disease burden in patients with epilepsy is significantly high, and epilepsy has a huge negative impact on patients' quality of life with epilepsy and their families. Anti-seizure medications are the mainstay treatment in patients with epilepsy, and around 70% of patients will ultimately control with a combination of at least two appropriately selected anti-seizure medications. However, in one-third of patients, seizures are resistant to drugs, and other measures will be needed. The primary goal in using experimental therapeutic medication strategies in patients with epilepsy is to prevent recurrent seizures and reduce the rate of traumatic events that may occur during seizures. So far, various treatments using medications have been offered for patients with epilepsies, which have been classified according to the type of epilepsy, the effectiveness of the medications, and the adverse effects. Medications such as Levetiracetam, valproic acid, and lamotrigine are at the forefront of these patients' treatment. Epilepsy surgery, neuro-stimulation, and the ketogenic diet are the main measures in patients with medication-resistant epilepsies. In this paper, we will review the therapeutic approach using anti-seizure medications in patients with epilepsy. However, it should be noted that some of these patients still do not respond to existing treatments; therefore, the limited ability of current therapies has fueled research efforts for the development of novel treatment strategies. Thus, it seems that in addition to surgical measures, we should look for more specific agents that have less adverse events and have a greater effect in stopping seizures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fakher Rahim
- Molecular Medicine and Bioinformatics, Research Center of Thalassemia & Hemoglobinopathy, Health Research Institute, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Reza Azizimalamiri
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Neurology, Golestan Medical, Educational, and Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Mehdi Sayyah
- Education Development Center (EDC), Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Alireza Malayeri
- Medicinal Plant Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
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Mostacci B, Ranzato F, Giuliano L, La Neve A, Aguglia U, Bilo L, Durante V, Ermio C, Monti G, Zambrelli E, Lodi MAM, Galimberti CA. Alternatives to valproate in girls and women of childbearing potential with Idiopathic Generalized Epilepsies: state of the art and guidance for the clinician proposed by the Epilepsy and Gender Commission of the Italian League Against Epilepsy (LICE). Seizure 2020; 85:26-38. [PMID: 33418162 DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2020.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Revised: 12/12/2020] [Accepted: 12/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Following recent European Medication Agency restrictions on valproate (VPA) use in girls and women of childbearing potential (WOCP), the Commission on Epilepsy and Gender of the Italian League against Epilepsy integrated current literature and legislative data in order to provide clinicians with guidance on antiseizure medication (ASM) prescription for Idiopathic Generalized Epilepsies (IGEs) in this population, avoiding VPA. We reviewed the updated literature on ASMs and examined the teratogenicity of those showing efficacy in IGEs. For all relevant ASMs, we considered the indications for use and the pregnancy and contraception-related recommendations given in the Italian Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC) and on the websites of the European Medicines Agency (EMA) and other European Union (EU) countries' regulatory agencies. With the exception of absence seizures, the literature lacks high quality studies on ASMs in IGEs. In girls and WOCP, levetiracetam and lamotrigine should be considered the first-choice drugs in Generalized Tonic-Clonic Seizures Alone and in Juvenile Myoclonic Epilepsy, lamotrigine in Juvenile Absence Epilepsy, and ethosuximide in Childhood Absence Epilepsy. Although supported by the literature, several ASMs are off label, contraindicated or burdened by special warnings in pregnancy. Some discrepancies emerged between the various SmPC warnings for different brands of the same active principle. We provided a therapeutic algorithm for each IGE syndrome and highlighted the need for revised prescription rules, consistent with the latest literature data, uniformity of SmPC warnings for the same active principle, and more data on the efficacy of new ASMs in IGEs and their safety in pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Mostacci
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Bologna, Italy(2)
| | | | - Loretta Giuliano
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies "G.F. Ingrassia", Section of Neurosciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.
| | - Angela La Neve
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences and Sense Organs, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Umberto Aguglia
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Leonilda Bilo
- Epilepsy Center, University of Napoli "Federico II", Napoli, Italy
| | - Vania Durante
- Ospedale "A. Perrino" di Brindisi- UO Neurologia, Brindisi, Italy
| | - Caterina Ermio
- Department of Neuroscience, "S. Giovanni Paolo II" Hospital, Lamezia Terme, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Giulia Monti
- Neurology Unit, Ospedale Ramazzini di Carpi, AUSL di Modena, Italy
| | - Elena Zambrelli
- Epilepsy Center, ASST SS. Paolo e Carlo, San Paolo Hospital, Milano, Italy
| | - Monica Anna Maria Lodi
- Pediatric Neurology Unit and Epilepsy Center, Department of Neuroscience, Fatebenefratelli e Oftalmico, Hospital, Milano, Italy
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