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Eslicarbazepine acetate for partial-onset seizures
Markus Rauchenzauner1, Gerhard Luef
1Department of Pediatrics, Saint Vincent Hospital Zams, Austria. markus_rauchenzauner@hotmail.com
Expert Review of Neurotherapeutics
|November 19, 2011
Summary
Eslicarbazepine acetate (ESL) shows efficacy and tolerability as an add-on therapy for adults with partial-onset seizures. Further research is needed to establish its therapeutic value in children and adolescents.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
- Clinical Medicine
Background:
- Eslicarbazepine acetate (ESL) is a novel voltage-gated sodium channel blocker.
- ESL is chemically related to carbamazepine and a metabolite of oxcarbazepine.
- Previous studies suggest efficacy and tolerability of ESL in adults with drug-resistant partial-onset seizures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of ESL as an add-on therapy for partial-onset seizures.
- To assess ESL's potential as an alternative antiepileptic drug therapy.
Main Methods:
- Review of Phase II and III studies on ESL in adult patients.
- Analysis of efficacy and tolerability data in pediatric populations.
- Dose-response assessment for seizure frequency reduction and adverse effects.
Main Results:
- ESL 800 and 1200 mg once daily demonstrated efficacy and tolerability in adults.
- Pediatric data indicate a dose-dependent decrease in seizure frequency.
- Common adverse effects in children include dizziness, somnolence, headache, diplopia, nausea, and vomiting.
Conclusions:
- ESL presents a viable alternative for adjunctive therapy in adult drug-resistant partial seizures due to its dosing convenience and profile.
- Ongoing clinical trials are necessary to confirm ESL's efficacy and safety in pediatric and adolescent populations.
- The therapeutic value of ESL in younger patients requires further establishment.
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