Efficacy of Levetiracetam as Adjunctive Therapy in Partial Epilepsy
Abstract number :
2.273
Submission category :
Year :
2001
Submission ID :
2749
Source :
www.aesnet.org
Presentation date :
12/1/2001 12:00:00 AM
Published date :
Dec 1, 2001, 06:00 AM
Authors :
B.J. Smith, MD, Neurology, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, MI; K.A. Humason, RN, Neurology, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, MI
RATIONALE: Levetiracetam (LEV) was approved for adjunctive therapy in the treatment of partial onset seizures in adults and has been available for clinical use since April 2000. We review our experience with LEV in patients with partial epilepsy who have previously failed treatment with at least two other antiepileptic drugs.
METHODS: All patients placed on LEV for treatment of refractory partial epilepsy were identified (n=114). Thirteen patients were excluded due to inability to obtain follow-up or length of treatment with LEV [lt] 6 months. Efficacy was determined by reported seizure frequency compared to LEV pretreatment baseline (seizures/month). Side effects, reasons for discontinuation and required dosage that rendered patients seizure-free were also analyzed.
RESULTS: With an average length of LEV treatment of 8.7 months (range 6-12.5 months), efficacy was determined. Outcomes included seizure-free status (21%), [gt]75% reduction (16%), [gt]50% reduction (35%), [gt]25% reduction (18%), no improvement (7%), and increased seizure frequency (3%). One quarter of the patients who became seizure free were maintained on a 250 mg bid dosage. Most common side effects included sedation, ataxia, dizziness and behavioral changes. Discontinuation of LEV in seven patients was due to increased seizure frequency (3), paresthesias in the lower extremities (2), and behavioral changes (2).
CONCLUSIONS: LEV can be an effective, well-tolerated adjunctive treatment option for patients with refractory partial epilepsy, and can result in a seizure-free status with doses lower than initially suggested.
Disclosure: Honoraria - UCB Pharma.