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Riva A, D'Onofrio G, Ferlazzo E, Pascarella A, Pasini E, Franceschetti S, Panzica F, Canafoglia L, Vignoli A, Coppola A, Badioni V, Beccaria F, Labate A, Gambardella A, Romeo A, Capovilla G, Michelucci R, Striano P, Belcastro V. Myoclonus: Differential diagnosis and current management. Epilepsia Open 2024; 9:486-500. [PMID: 38334331 PMCID: PMC10984309 DOI: 10.1002/epi4.12917] [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: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 01/28/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Myoclonus classically presents as a brief (10-50 ms duration), non-rhythmic jerk movement. The etiology could vary considerably ranging from self-limited to chronic or even progressive disorders, the latter falling into encephalopathic pictures that need a prompt diagnosis. Beyond the etiological classification, others evaluate myoclonus' body distribution (i.e., clinical classification) or the location of the generator (i.e., neurophysiological classification); particularly, knowing the anatomical source of myoclonus gives inputs on the observable clinical patterns, such as EMG bursts duration or EEG correlate, and guides the therapeutic choices. Among all the chronic disorders, myoclonus often presents itself as a manifestation of epilepsy. In this context, myoclonus has many facets. Myoclonus occurs as one, or the only, seizure manifestation while it can also present as a peculiar type of movement disorder; moreover, its electroclinical features within specific genetically determined epileptic syndromes have seldom been investigated. In this review, following a meeting of recognized experts, we provide an up-to-date overview of the neurophysiology and nosology surrounding myoclonus. Through the dedicated exploration of epileptic syndromes, coupled with pragmatic guidance, we aim to furnish clinicians and researchers alike with practical advice for heightened diagnostic management and refined treatment strategies. PLAIN LANGUAGE SUMMARY: In this work, we described myoclonus, a movement characterized by brief, shock-like jerks. Myoclonus could be present in different diseases and its correct diagnosis helps treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonella Riva
- Department of Neurosciences Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI)University of GenoaGenoaItaly
- Pediatric Neurology and Muscular Diseases UnitIRCCS Istituto “Giannina Gaslini”GenoaItaly
| | - Gianluca D'Onofrio
- Department of Neurosciences Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI)University of GenoaGenoaItaly
- Pediatric Neurology and Muscular Diseases UnitIRCCS Istituto “Giannina Gaslini”GenoaItaly
| | - Edoardo Ferlazzo
- Department of Medical and Surgical SciencesMagna Græcia University of CatanzaroCatanzaroItaly
- Regional Epilepsy CentreGreat Metropolitan “Bianchi‐Melacrino‐Morelli Hospital”Reggio CalabriaItaly
| | - Angelo Pascarella
- Department of Medical and Surgical SciencesMagna Græcia University of CatanzaroCatanzaroItaly
- Regional Epilepsy CentreGreat Metropolitan “Bianchi‐Melacrino‐Morelli Hospital”Reggio CalabriaItaly
| | - Elena Pasini
- IRCCS‐Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Unit of NeurologyBellaria HospitalBolognaItaly
| | - Silvana Franceschetti
- Department of Diagnostics and TechnologyFondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologio Carlo BestaMilanItaly
| | - Ferruccio Panzica
- Department of Diagnostics and TechnologyFondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologio Carlo BestaMilanItaly
| | - Laura Canafoglia
- Department of Diagnostics and TechnologyFondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologio Carlo BestaMilanItaly
| | - Aglaia Vignoli
- Childhood and Adolescence Neurology and Psychiatry Unit, ASST GOM Niguarda, Health Sciences DepartmentUniversità degli Studi di MilanoMilanoItaly
| | - Antonietta Coppola
- Department of Neuroscience, Odontostomatology and Reproductive SciencesFederico II University of NaplesNaplesItaly
| | | | | | - Angelo Labate
- Neurophysiology and Movement Disorders UnitUniversity of MessinaMessinaItaly
| | - Antonio Gambardella
- Department of Medical and Surgical SciencesMagna Græcia University of CatanzaroCatanzaroItaly
| | - Antonino Romeo
- Pediatric Neurology Unit and Epilepsy Center, Department of Neuroscience“Fatebenefratelli e Oftalmico" HospitalMilanoItaly
| | | | - Roberto Michelucci
- IRCCS‐Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Unit of NeurologyBellaria HospitalBolognaItaly
| | - Pasquale Striano
- Department of Neurosciences Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI)University of GenoaGenoaItaly
- Pediatric Neurology and Muscular Diseases UnitIRCCS Istituto “Giannina Gaslini”GenoaItaly
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Hentschel M, Stoffel-Wagner B, Surges R, von Wrede R, Dolscheid-Pommerich RC. Value of drug level concentrations of brivaracetam, lacosamide, and perampanel in care of people with epilepsy. Epilepsia 2024; 65:620-629. [PMID: 38158709 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17873] [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: 08/25/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to determine whether clinical efficacy and reported adverse effects (AEs) of the newer antiseizure medications (ASMs) brivaracetam (BRV), lacosamide (LCM), and perampanel (PER) have been associated with plasma levels of these ASMs. We also investigated whether plasma levels outside the reference range has led to dose adjustments. METHODS Plasma levels of 300 people with epilepsy (PWE) seen at our tertiary epilepsy center were determined by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. PWE received BRV (n = 100), LCM (n = 100), or PER (n = 100), in most cases in polytherapy. Demographic and clinical data were retrospectively analyzed and related to plasma levels. Clinical efficacy of BRV, LCM, or PER was assessed retrospectively by comparing seizure frequency at the time of current blood draw with seizure frequency at the time of first administration. AEs were also recorded and, if reported, compared retrospectively with the time of first administration. RESULTS No significant associations were found between plasma levels of BRV, LCM, or PER and seizure freedom (BRV, p = 1.000; LCM, p = .243; PER, p = .113) or responder status (BRV, p = .118; LCM, p = .478; PER, p = .069) at presentation. There was also no pattern between plasma levels and the occurrence of AEs. In the majority of cases, drug levels outside the reference ranges have not led to adjustments in the daily doses of BRV (93.5%), LCM (93.9%), or PER (89.1%). SIGNIFICANCE Plasma levels at a given time point did not allow conclusions to be drawn about seizure control or the occurrence of AEs. Our findings indicate that efficacy and tolerability cannot be predicted based on averaged data from a single plasma measurement due to high interindividual variability. Instead, individual reference values should be established when sufficient clinical data are available, in line with the 2008 International League Against Epilepsy position paper on therapeutic drug monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthias Hentschel
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Clinical Pharmacology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Birgit Stoffel-Wagner
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Clinical Pharmacology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Rainer Surges
- Department of Epileptology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Randi von Wrede
- Department of Epileptology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
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Efficacy, tolerability and pharmacokinetic variability of brivaracetam in adults with difficult-to-treat epilepsy. Epilepsy Res 2022; 183:106946. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2022.106946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Revised: 05/08/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Cucchiara F, Ferraro S, Luci G, Bocci G. Relevant pharmacological interactions between alkylating agents and antiepileptic drugs: Preclinical and clinical data. Pharmacol Res 2021; 175:105976. [PMID: 34785318 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2021.105976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Revised: 11/07/2021] [Accepted: 11/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Seizures are relatively common in cancer patients, and co-administration of chemotherapeutic and antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) is highly probable and necessary in many cases. Nonetheless, clinically relevant interactions between chemotherapeutic drugs and AEDs are rarely summarized and pharmacologically described. These interactions can cause insufficient tumor and seizure control or lead to unforeseen toxicity. This review focused on pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic interactions between alkylating agents and AEDs, helping readers to make a rational choice of treatment optimization, and thus improving patients' quality of life. As an example, phenobarbital, phenytoin, and carbamazepine, by increasing the hepatic metabolism of cyclophosphamide, ifosfamide and busulfan, yield smaller peak concentrations and a reduced area under the plasma concentration-time curve (AUC) of the prodrugs; alongside, the maximum concentration and AUC of their active products were increased with the possible onset of severe adverse drug reactions. On the other side, valproic acid, acting as histone deacetylase inhibitor, showed synergistic effects with temozolomide when tested in glioblastoma. The present review is aimed at providing evidence that may offer useful suggestions for rational pharmacological strategies in patients with seizures symptoms undertaking alkylating agents. Firstly, clinicians should avoid the use of enzyme-inducing AEDs in combination with alkylating agents and prefer the use of AEDs, such as levetiracetam, that have a low or no impact on hepatic metabolism. Secondly, a careful therapeutic drug monitoring of both alkylating agents and AEDs (and their active metabolites) is necessary to maintain therapeutic ranges and to avoid serious adverse reactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federico Cucchiara
- Unit of Pharmacology, Department of Clinical and Experimental, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Sara Ferraro
- Unit of Pharmacology and Pharmacovigilance, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Giacomo Luci
- Unit of Pharmacology, Department of Clinical and Experimental, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Guido Bocci
- Unit of Pharmacology, Department of Clinical and Experimental, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.
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Mastroianni G, Ascoli M, Gasparini S, Brigo F, Cianci V, Neri S, Russo E, Aguglia U, Ferlazzo E. Therapeutic approach to difficult-to-treat typical absences and related epilepsy syndromes. Expert Rev Clin Pharmacol 2021; 14:1427-1433. [PMID: 34289757 DOI: 10.1080/17512433.2021.1959317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: typical absences (TAs), are brief, generalized epileptic seizures of abrupt onset and termination clinically manifesting with impairment of awareness and associated with 3 Hz spike-wave discharges on EEG. TAs may occur in different idiopathic generalized epilepsies (IGE). Despite treatment with adequate anti-seizure medications (ASMs), TAs may persist in ~25% of subjects. This narrative review focuses on the therapeutic approach to difficult-to-treat TAs occurring in the setting of IGE.Areas covered: a literature search was conducted on the topic of treatment of TAs.Expert opinion: ethosuximide (ESX), valproic acid (VPA) and lamotrigine (LTG), alone or in combination, are considered the first-choice drugs. In women of childbearing potential, VPA should be avoided. Alternative therapies (benzodiazepines, levetiracetam, topiramate, or zonisamide) should be considered in subjects unresponsive to monotherapy after the exclusion of pseudo-drug resistance. Newer ASMs such as brivaracetam and perampanel seem to be promising options. Well-conducted clinical trials aimed to evaluate the efficacy of alternative monotherapy (beyond ESX, VPA or LTG) or combination of ASMs on difficult-to-treat TAs, are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Mastroianni
- Regional Epilepsy Centre, Great Metropolitan "BMM" Hospital, Reggio, Calabria, Italy
| | - Michele Ascoli
- Regional Epilepsy Centre, Great Metropolitan "BMM" Hospital, Reggio, Calabria, Italy.,Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Magna Graecia University, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Sara Gasparini
- Regional Epilepsy Centre, Great Metropolitan "BMM" Hospital, Reggio, Calabria, Italy.,Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Magna Graecia University, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Francesco Brigo
- Department of Neurology, Hospital of Merano (SABES-ASDAA), Merano, Italy
| | - Vittoria Cianci
- Regional Epilepsy Centre, Great Metropolitan "BMM" Hospital, Reggio, Calabria, Italy
| | - Sabrina Neri
- Regional Epilepsy Centre, Great Metropolitan "BMM" Hospital, Reggio, Calabria, Italy.,Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Magna Graecia University, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Emilio Russo
- Science of Health Department, Magna Graecia University, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Umberto Aguglia
- Regional Epilepsy Centre, Great Metropolitan "BMM" Hospital, Reggio, Calabria, Italy.,Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Magna Graecia University, Catanzaro, Italy.,Institute of Molecular Bioimaging and Physiology, National Research Council, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Edoardo Ferlazzo
- Regional Epilepsy Centre, Great Metropolitan "BMM" Hospital, Reggio, Calabria, Italy.,Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Magna Graecia University, Catanzaro, Italy.,Institute of Molecular Bioimaging and Physiology, National Research Council, Catanzaro, Italy
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Mastroianni G, Iannone LF, Roberti R, Gasparini S, Ascoli M, Cianci V, De Sarro G, Gambardella A, Labate A, Brigo F, Russo E, Aguglia U, Ferlazzo E. Management of status epilepticus in patients with liver or kidney disease: a narrative review. Expert Rev Neurother 2020; 21:1251-1264. [PMID: 33297776 DOI: 10.1080/14737175.2021.1862649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Status epilepticus (SE) is a neurologic and medical emergency with significant related morbidity and mortality. Hepatic or renal dysfunction can considerably affect the pharmacokinetics of drugs used for SE through a variety of direct or indirect mechanisms.Areas Covered: This review aims to focus on the therapeutic management of SE in patients with hepatic or renal impairment, highlighting drugs' selection and dose changes that may be necessary due to altered drug metabolism and excretion. The references for this review were identified by searches of PubMed and Google Scholar until May 2020.Expert opinion: According to literature evidence and clinical experience, in patients with renal disease, the authors suggest considering lorazepam as the drug of choice in pre-hospital and intra-hospital early-stage SE, phenytoin in definite SE, propofol in refractory or super-refractory SE. In patients with liver disease, the authors suggest the use of lorazepam as drug of choice in pre-hospital and intra-hospital early-stage SE, lacosamide in definite SE, propofol in refractory or super-refractory SE. A list of preferred drugs for all SE stages is provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Mastroianni
- Regional Epilepsy Centre, Great Metropolitan "Bianchi-Melacrino-Morelli" Hospital, Reggio, Italy
| | | | - Roberta Roberti
- Science of Health Department, School of Medicine, Magna Græcia University, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Sara Gasparini
- Regional Epilepsy Centre, Great Metropolitan "Bianchi-Melacrino-Morelli" Hospital, Reggio, Italy.,Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Magna Græcia University, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Michele Ascoli
- Regional Epilepsy Centre, Great Metropolitan "Bianchi-Melacrino-Morelli" Hospital, Reggio, Italy.,Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Magna Græcia University, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Vittoria Cianci
- Regional Epilepsy Centre, Great Metropolitan "Bianchi-Melacrino-Morelli" Hospital, Reggio, Italy
| | | | - Antonio Gambardella
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Magna Græcia University, Catanzaro, Italy.,Institute of Molecular Bioimaging and Physiology, National Research Council, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Angelo Labate
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Magna Græcia University, Catanzaro, Italy.,Institute of Molecular Bioimaging and Physiology, National Research Council, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Francesco Brigo
- Department of Neurology, Franz Tappeiner Hospital, Merano, Italy
| | - Emilio Russo
- Science of Health Department, School of Medicine, Magna Græcia University, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Umberto Aguglia
- Regional Epilepsy Centre, Great Metropolitan "Bianchi-Melacrino-Morelli" Hospital, Reggio, Italy.,Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Magna Græcia University, Catanzaro, Italy.,Institute of Molecular Bioimaging and Physiology, National Research Council, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Edoardo Ferlazzo
- Regional Epilepsy Centre, Great Metropolitan "Bianchi-Melacrino-Morelli" Hospital, Reggio, Italy.,Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Magna Græcia University, Catanzaro, Italy.,Institute of Molecular Bioimaging and Physiology, National Research Council, Catanzaro, Italy
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Steinhoff BJ, Staack AM. Levetiracetam and brivaracetam: a review of evidence from clinical trials and clinical experience. Ther Adv Neurol Disord 2019; 12:1756286419873518. [PMID: 31523280 PMCID: PMC6734620 DOI: 10.1177/1756286419873518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2019] [Accepted: 08/12/2019] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Until the early 1990s, a limited number of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) were available. Since then, a large variety of new AEDs have been developed and introduced, several of them offering new modes of action. One of these new AED families is described and reviewed in this article. Levetiracetam (LEV) and brivaracetam (BRV) are pyrrolidone derivate compounds binding at the presynaptic SV2A receptor site and are thus representative of AEDs with a unique mode of action. LEV was extensively investigated in randomized controlled trials and has a very promising efficacy both in focal and generalized epilepsies. Its pharmacokinetic profile is favorable and LEV does not undergo clinically relevant interactions. Adverse reactions comprise mainly asthenia, somnolence, and behavioral symptoms. It has now been established as a first-line antiepileptic drug. BRV has been recently introduced as an adjunct antiepileptic drug in focal epilepsy with a similarly promising pharmacokinetic profile and possibly increased tolerability concerning psychiatric adverse events. This review summarizes the essential preclinical and clinical data of LEV and BRV that is currently available and includes the experiences at a large tertiary referral epilepsy center.
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Ferlazzo E, Trenite DKN, Haan GJD, Felix Nitschke F, Ahonen S, Gasparini S, Minassian BA. Update on Pharmacological Treatment of Progressive Myoclonus Epilepsies. Curr Pharm Des 2019; 23:5662-5666. [PMID: 28799509 DOI: 10.2174/1381612823666170809114654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2017] [Accepted: 08/03/2017] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Progressive myoclonus epilepsies (PMEs) are a group of rare inherited diseases featuring a combination of myoclonus, seizures and variable degree of cognitive impairment. Despite extensive investigations, a large number of PMEs remain undiagnosed. In this review, we focus on the current pharmacological approach to PMEs. METHODS References were mainly identified through PubMed search until February 2017 and backtracking of references in pertinent studies. RESULTS The majority of available data on the efficacy of antiepileptic medications in PMEs are primarily anecdotal or observational, based on individual responses in small series. Valproic acid is the drug of choice, except for PMEs due to mitochondrial diseases. Levetiracetam and clonazepam should be considered as the first add-on treatment. Zonisamide and perampanel represent promising alternatives. Phenobarbital and primidone should be reserved to patients with resistant disabling myoclonus or seizures. Lamotrigine should be used with caution due to its unpredictable effect on myoclonus. Avoidance of drugs known to aggravate myoclonus and seizures, such as carbamazepine and phenytoin, is paramount. Psychiatric (in particular depression) and other comorbidities need to be adequately managed. Although a 3- to 4-drug regimen is often necessary to control seizures and myoclonus, particular care should be paid to avoid excessive pharmacological load and neurotoxic side effects. Target therapy is possible only for a minority of PMEs. CONCLUSIONS Overall, the treatment of PMEs remains symptomatic (i.e. pharmacological treatment of seizures and myoclonus). Further dissection of the genetic background of the different PMEs might hopefully help in the future with individualised treatment options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edoardo Ferlazzo
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Magna Graecia University, Catanzaro, Italy.,Regional Epilepsy Centre, Bianchi-Melacrino-Morelli Hospital, Reggio Calabria, Italy
| | | | - Gerrit-Jan de Haan
- Stichting Epilepsie Instellingen Nederland (SEIN) Heemstede, Netherlands
| | - Felix Felix Nitschke
- Program in Genetics and Genome Biology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada
| | - Saija Ahonen
- Program in Genetics and Genome Biology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada
| | - Sara Gasparini
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Magna Graecia University, Catanzaro, Italy.,Regional Epilepsy Centre, Bianchi-Melacrino-Morelli Hospital, Reggio Calabria, Italy
| | - Berge A Minassian
- Program in Genetics and Genome Biology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada.,Department of Pediatrics (Neurology), University of Texas Southwestern, Dallas Texas, USA
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Feyissa AM. Brivaracetam in the treatment of epilepsy: a review of clinical trial data. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat 2019; 15:2587-2600. [PMID: 31571877 PMCID: PMC6750854 DOI: 10.2147/ndt.s143548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2019] [Accepted: 08/15/2019] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Brivaracetam (BRV), an analog of levetiracetam (LEV), was discovered during a target-based rational drug discovery program that aimed to identify potent synaptic vesicle protein 2A (SV2A) ligands. Among the 12,000 compounds screened in vitro, BRV was found to have 15-30 times greater affinity for SV2A and faster brain permeability than LEV. Although preclinical and post-marketing studies suggest broad spectrum of efficacy, BRV is currently only approved as monotherapy and adjunctive therapy of focal-onset seizures in patients age 4 years and older. This review examines the use of BRV as add-on (5-200 mg/day) therapy for epilepsy with a particular emphasis on the six regulatory randomized clinical trialsinvolving 2399 participants. Participants receiving BRV add-on at doses of 50-200 mg/day were more likely to experience a 50% or greater reduction in seizure frequency (pooled risk ratio [RR]) 1.79 with 95% CI of 1.51-2.12) than those receiving placebo. Participants receiving BRV were also more likely to attain seizure freedom (57 [3.3%] vs 4 [0.5%]; RR 4.74, 95% CI 2.00-11.25) than those receiving placebo. In addition, BRV demonstrated a favorable safety profile similar to placebo across all BRV doses. Treatment emergent adverse events significantly associated with BRV were irritability, fatigue, somnolence, and dizziness. Post-hoc analysis of regulatory trials, post-marketing studies, and indirect comparison meta-analyses demonstrated equivalent efficacy and better tolerability of BRV when compared to other antiseizure drugs. Further, these studies appear to suggest that behavioral adverse events are likely to be less frequent and less severe with BRV than LEV. Therefore, switching to BRV may be considered for patients who have seizure control with LEV, but who cannot tolerate its behavioral adverse effects. In this setting, immediate switch from LEV to BRV at a 10:1-15:1 ratio without titration is feasible. Further research is needed to examine the long-term tolerability and efficacy of BRV as well as its role in the treatment of other types of epilepsies, particularly dementia-related epilepsy and brain tumor-related epilepsy.
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Budget Impact Analysis of Brivaracetam Adjunctive Therapy for Partial-Onset Epileptic Seizures in Valencia Community, Spain. Clin Drug Investig 2018; 38:353-363. [PMID: 29270790 DOI: 10.1007/s40261-017-0615-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE More than 30% of patients with epilepsy have inadequate control of seizures with drug therapy. The goal of this study is to determine the budget impact (BI) of the introduction of brivaracetam to the portfolio of approved drugs in Spain as adjunctive therapy for the treatment of partial-onset epilepsy in patients over 16 years old with a 5-year time horizon in the Valencia Community, a Spanish region with a population of 5 million. METHODS The BI model compares the pharmaceutical expenditure on antiepileptics in two scenarios: with and without brivaracetam. It assumes that the introduction and increased use of brivaracetam will lead to a proportional decrease in consumption of coexisting adjunctive antiepileptics and calculates the evolution of the consumption of brivaracetam over 5 years (2016-2020). The model was designed from the perspective of the Spanish National Health System. Data on the candidate population, consumption of antiepileptics, market share and pharmaceutical expenditure were obtained from real-world data. Finally, a sensitivity analysis was carried out on the set of variables involved in the evolution of costs using a Monte-Carlo simulation. RESULTS The model estimates that the target population eligible for adjunctive antiepileptics will hold at around 2352 between 2016 and 2020. Annual expenditure on antiepileptics is approximately €3.6 million. The number of patients eligible for treatment with brivaracetam would increase from 42 to 179 and annual savings of 0.09-0.37% would be created, representing €41,873 over 5 years (0.23% of the total budget). The sensitivity analysis corroborates that the probability of achieving savings with brivaracetam is around 84%. CONCLUSIONS Brivaracetam is a therapeutic alternative that allows savings for the health system in patients with non-controlled epilepsy in monotherapy, having a fixed, predictable annual cost (independent of dose) from the first day of treatment as the lack of need for titration means the patient is within a range of therapeutic doses from the first dose.
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Russo E, Citraro R, Mula M. The preclinical discovery and development of brivaracetam for the treatment of focal epilepsy. Expert Opin Drug Discov 2017; 12:1169-1178. [DOI: 10.1080/17460441.2017.1366985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Emilio Russo
- Science of Health Department, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Rita Citraro
- Science of Health Department, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Marco Mula
- Atkinson Morley Regional Neuroscience Centre, St George’s University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- Institute of Medical and Biomedical Education, St George’s University of London, London, UK
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12
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LaPenna P, Tormoehlen LM. The Pharmacology and Toxicology of Third-Generation Anticonvulsant Drugs. J Med Toxicol 2017; 13:329-342. [PMID: 28815428 DOI: 10.1007/s13181-017-0626-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2017] [Revised: 07/09/2017] [Accepted: 07/12/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Epilepsy is a neurologic disorder affecting approximately 50 million people worldwide, or about 0.7% of the population [1]. Thus, the use of anticonvulsant drugs in the treatment of epilepsy is common and widespread. There are three generations of anticonvulsant drugs, categorized by the year in which they were developed and released. The aim of this review is to discuss the pharmacokinetics, drug-drug interactions, and adverse events of the third generation of anticonvulsant drugs. Where available, overdose data will be included. The pharmacokinetic properties of third-generation anticonvulsant drugs include relatively fewer drug-drug interactions, as well as several unique and life-threatening adverse events. Overdose data are limited, so thorough review of adverse events and knowledge of drug mechanism will guide expectant management of future overdose cases. Reporting of these cases as they occur will be necessary to further clarify toxicity of these drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul LaPenna
- Department of Neurology, Indiana University, 355 W. 16th Street, Suite 3200, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA
| | - Laura M Tormoehlen
- Department of Neurology, Indiana University, 355 W. 16th Street, Suite 3200, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA. .,Department of Emergency Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN, USA.
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Milovanović JR, Janković SM, Pejčić A, Milosavljević M, Opančina V, Radonjić V, Protrka Z, Kostić M. Evaluation of brivaracetam: a new drug to treat epilepsy. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2017; 18:1381-1389. [PMID: 28737479 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2017.1359260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION High prevalence of therapy-resistant epilepsy demands development of anticonvulsants with new mechanisms of action. Brivaracetam is an analogue of levetiracetam which binds to the synaptic vesicle protein 2A (SV2A) and decreases release of excitatory neurotransmitters. Areas covered: Relevant published studies were searched for by predefined strategy in MEDLINE, EBSCO and SCINDEKS electronic databases. Brivaracetam is effective as adjunctive therapy for uncontrolled partial-onset seizures with or without secondary generalization in patients 16 years and older with epilepsy. It reduces baseline-adjusted focal seizure frequency per week from 7.3 to 12.8% over placebo. Adverse events rate in patients with brivaracetam is not higher than in patients with placebo. Expert opinion: Brivaracetam is an important step forward in the treatment of therapy-resistant partial-onset seizures with or without secondary generalization. Its development was systematic and targeted. Due to its efficacy and excellent safety profile, it is likely that brivaracetam will be often prescribed. In future, efficacy and safety of brivaracetam should be tested in monotherapy settings and also in the first-line therapy of partial-onset seizures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasmina R Milovanović
- a Faculty of Medical Sciences, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology , University of Kragujevac , Kragujevac , Serbia
| | - Slobodan M Janković
- a Faculty of Medical Sciences, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology , University of Kragujevac , Kragujevac , Serbia
| | - Ana Pejčić
- a Faculty of Medical Sciences, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology , University of Kragujevac , Kragujevac , Serbia
| | - Miloš Milosavljević
- a Faculty of Medical Sciences, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology , University of Kragujevac , Kragujevac , Serbia
| | - Valentina Opančina
- a Faculty of Medical Sciences, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology , University of Kragujevac , Kragujevac , Serbia
| | - Vesela Radonjić
- a Faculty of Medical Sciences, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology , University of Kragujevac , Kragujevac , Serbia
| | - Zoran Protrka
- a Faculty of Medical Sciences, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology , University of Kragujevac , Kragujevac , Serbia
| | - Marina Kostić
- a Faculty of Medical Sciences, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology , University of Kragujevac , Kragujevac , Serbia
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Löscher W, Gillard M, Sands ZA, Kaminski RM, Klitgaard H. Synaptic Vesicle Glycoprotein 2A Ligands in the Treatment of Epilepsy and Beyond. CNS Drugs 2016; 30:1055-1077. [PMID: 27752944 PMCID: PMC5078162 DOI: 10.1007/s40263-016-0384-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The synaptic vesicle glycoprotein SV2A belongs to the major facilitator superfamily (MFS) of transporters and is an integral constituent of synaptic vesicle membranes. SV2A has been demonstrated to be involved in vesicle trafficking and exocytosis, processes crucial for neurotransmission. The anti-seizure drug levetiracetam was the first ligand to target SV2A and displays a broad spectrum of anti-seizure activity in various preclinical models. Several lines of preclinical and clinical evidence, including genetics and protein expression changes, support an important role of SV2A in epilepsy pathophysiology. While the functional consequences of SV2A ligand binding are not fully elucidated, studies suggest that subsequent SV2A conformational changes may contribute to seizure protection. Conversely, the recently discovered negative SV2A modulators, such as UCB0255, counteract the anti-seizure effect of levetiracetam and display procognitive properties in preclinical models. More broadly, dysfunction of SV2A may also be involved in Alzheimer's disease and other types of cognitive impairment, suggesting potential novel therapies for levetiracetam and its congeners. Furthermore, emerging data indicate that there may be important roles for two other SV2 isoforms (SV2B and SV2C) in the pathogenesis of epilepsy, as well as other neurodegenerative diseases. Utilization of recently developed SV2A positron emission tomography ligands will strengthen and reinforce the pharmacological evidence that SV2A is a druggable target, and will provide a better understanding of its role in epilepsy and other neurological diseases, aiding in further defining the full therapeutic potential of SV2A modulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wolfgang Löscher
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmacy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Bünteweg 17, 30559, Hannover, Germany.
- Center for Systems Neuroscience, Hannover, Germany.
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