Abstracts

Tranxene[reg] (clorazepate dipotassium) has not been widely used in recent years since many newer anticonvulsants have become available. However, Tranxene[reg] continues to be effective in some patients with symptomatic epilepsy. There is relatively little information regarding recent patterns of Tranxene[reg] use and its targeted patient population. We reviewed the current usage of Tranxene[reg] in order to identify a specific patient population where Tranxene[reg] may be particularly efficacious and useful. In addition, the tolerability and side-effect profile of Tranxene[reg] within the group were assessed.
Data from 124 patients (age range 2 to 20 years) currently on Tranxene[reg] was reviewed. The list of patients was obtained from the pediatric pharmacy database. Information regarding the purpose of Tranxene[reg] use, seizure types, starting date, dosage, overall efficacy, and adverse effects was collected by retrospective chart review.
More than half the patients (70) were prescribed Tranxene[reg] for treatment of both seizures and spasticity. Seventeen patients were taking Tranxene[reg] predominantly for the treatment of seizures and 32 for the treatment of spasticity. The remaining 5 patients were prescribed Tranxene[reg] for other purposes. Most of the patients had a diagnosis of static encephalopathy and symptomatic epilepsy of either partial or generalized onset. Many of the patients were prescribed Tranxene[reg] at an early age (mean starting age of 3 years), and continued for many years (mean duration 5 years). The average Tranxene[reg] dosage was 11.25 mg per day (range from 3.75 to 22.50 mg). Eighty-four of 87 patients who had epilepsy received concurrent AEDs (median number of two), and 52 reported overall good seizure control. In addition, 62 of 87 patients reported improvement of muscle rigidity or spasticity. Only a small number of patients reported significant cognitive side effects.
Tranxene[reg] can be used effectively as an adjunctive therapy in the treatment of symptomatic epilepsy. Tranxene[reg] has been used mainly in patients with concurrent motor spasticity and/or cerebral palsy (often resulting from static encephalopathy). When it is used as an adjunctive therapy, about 60% of the patients reported good seizure control without significant adverse effects. Tranxene[reg] should be considered in patients who have both symptomatic epilepsy and spasticity.
[Supported by: Ovation Pharmaceuticals, Inc.]