Topiramate or valproate in patients with juvenile myoclonic epilepsy: a randomized open-label comparison

Few randomized, controlled trials evaluating antiepileptic drug (AED) efficacy and tolerability have focused solely on patients with juvenile myoclonic epilepsy (JME). We conducted a pilot, randomized controlled trial comparing topiramate (N=19) and valproate (N=9) in adolescents/adults with JME to evaluate clinical response when these broad-spectrum agents are titrated to optimal effect. Rating scales were used to systematically assess tolerability. Among patients completing 26 weeks of treatment, 8 of 12 (67%) in the topiramate group and 4 of 7 (57%) in the valproate group were seizure-free during the 12-week maintenance period. Median daily dose was 250mg topiramate or 750mg valproate. Two (11%) topiramate-treated patients and one (11%) valproate-treated patient discontinued due to adverse events. Systemic toxicity scores, but not neurotoxicity scores, differed substantially between the two groups; greater systemic toxicity was associated with valproate. Our preliminary findings that topiramate may be an effective, well-tolerated alternative to valproate warrant validation in a double-blind trial.