Abstracts

In this study data relating to seizure count/frequency were obtained from subjects switched from immediate-release carbamazepine (IR-CBZ) to an equal total daily dose of Carbatrol[reg] extended-release capsules (CBZ-ERC) at a minimum of 400 mg/d. At baseline, eligible and enrolled subjects were switched from their current IR-CBZ product to an equal total daily dose of CBZ-ERC. Grounds for exclusion from this multicenter study included: known history of generalized tonic-clonic status epilepticus or epilepsy syndromes that may potentially worsen with carbamazepine treatment, progressive neurological disorder, receiving more than 1 additional antiepileptic drug or any type of neuroleptic drug, or CBZ-ERC treatment within 90 days of study screening. Data from 453 patients with epilepsy were collected. Seizure count assessment via seizure diary was performed at baseline (month 0), month 2, and endpoint, while assessment of seizure count at months 1 and 3 were communicated by telephone. Overall mean monthly seizure count (all patients) was significantly decreased both at month 3 and at end point when compared to baseline ([italic]P[/italic]=.05). Monthly seizure count was significantly reduced in patients switched from IR-CBZ to CBZ-ERC at comparable doses. These data support CBZ-ERC as an effective formulation to deliver carbamazepine to the patient with epilepsy.
Carbatrol is registered in the United States Patent and Trademark Office. (Supported by Shire.)