Abstracts

Topiramate (TPM) is a newer antiepileptic medication available in the United States for the treatment of epilepsy since 1996. It is indicated as adjunctive therapy for adults and pediatric patients ages 2-16 years with partial onset seizures, or primary generalized tonic-clonic seizures, and in patients 2 years of age and older with seizures associated with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome The purpose of this study was to review our clinical experience with TPM in a pediatric population. We retrospectively analyzed the charts of 19 children with a variety of epileptic syndromes who had an EEG while on TPM from Jan 2003 to Dec 2004. Ages ranged from 1 year to 18 years. Demographics, seizure types, previous Antiepileptic drugs (AEDs), dosages, concomitant AEDs, adverse events and outcome were recorded. Nineteen patients were included; thirteen boys and six girls. Twelve had partial epilepsy, and seven primarily generalized. Associated disorders included mental retardation, developmental delay, cerebral palsy, hydrocephalus, Sturge Weber and Systemis Lupus Erythematosus. Patients were taking up to 3 AEDS when TPM was added. Five patients were able to convert to monotherapy. A [gt]50% seizure reduction was found in eleven patients (58%) Adverse events (AEs) included lethargy, decreased appetite, cognitive impairment, andparasthesias. Two patients experienced beneficial weight loss and one had improved school performance. Three patients discontinued treatment due to AEs. Topiramate is an effective and well tolerated medication in the pediatric population for both partial onset and primary generalized epilepsy. Monotherapy was possible for both partial and generalized epilepsy patients, some of whom failed up to 3 AEDs.