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Update on rufinamide in childhood epilepsy
1Clinic of Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry, Medical School, University of Salerno, Italy.
Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment
|July 28, 2011
Summary
Rufinamide is an effective adjunctive treatment for Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS) and other childhood epilepsies. This review details its efficacy and safety in various pediatric epilepsy syndromes.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Neurology
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Rufinamide is a novel anticonvulsant distinct from other epilepsy drugs.
- It received orphan drug status for Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS) and is approved for LGS and partial seizures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the efficacy and safety of rufinamide in childhood-onset epilepsy syndromes.
- To update existing literature data on rufinamide's use in pediatric epilepsy.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing data on rufinamide's efficacy and tolerability.
- Analysis of studies including randomized controlled trials and open-label extensions.
Main Results:
- Rufinamide's efficacy in treating atonic/tonic seizures in LGS is well-established.
- It has been evaluated for various childhood-onset epileptic encephalopathies and syndromes.
Conclusions:
- Rufinamide is a valuable therapeutic option for LGS and other severe childhood epilepsies.
- Further data confirms its efficacy and safety profile in pediatric epilepsy management.
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