Abstracts

Rationale: Epilepsy is a spectrum of neurologic disorders characterized by seizures with unpredictable frequency that significantly impair patient quality of life. Although a cure for epilepsy remains elusive, clinical researchers continue to pursue the development of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) to satisfy the goal of eliminating the disease burden. It is therefore important that clinicians are aware of how newer AED therapies function and their placement in clinical practice. An online educational intervention was developed with the goal of improving neurologists' knowledge and competence regarding use of third generation AEDs for the treatment of epilepsy. Methods: The effectiveness of an online educational intervention for neurologists in the form of a 30-minute video lecture with slides overlaid using green screen was analyzed. Educational effect was assessed by comparing a matched sample of participants' responses to 4 questions presented both before and directly after exposure to the intervention. A chi-square test was used to identify significant differences between pre- and post-assessment responses of the learners. P values were calculated and those < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Cramer's V was used to calculate the effect size of online education. Data from the assessment were collected between September 25, 2015, and November 24, 2015. Results: For neurologists who participated in the online activity and answered all assessment questions during the study period, comparison of responses to pre- and post-assessment questions demonstrated statistically significant improvements (n = 85; P < .05) and a medium effect size (V = 0.19). As a result of participating in this educational program, significant improvements were observed in several specific areas (P < .05): availability of a greater concentration of the active metabolite with eslicarbazepine versus oxcarbazepine (57% pre vs post relative improvement); the AMPA receptor as the primary therapeutic target for perampanel (37% pre vs post relative improvement); and use of lacosamide in a patient with partial onset seizures who is also taking birth control pills (51% pre vs post relative improvement). In contrast, no significant improvement was found in identification of nonrational polytherapy. Conclusions: This study demonstrated the success of a targeted online, video lecture on improving the knowledge and competency of neurologists regarding third generation AEDs. Additional education should address the appropriate use of polytherapy in clinical practice. Funding: The educational intervention, outcomes measurement, and abstract were funded through an independent educational grant from Eisai.