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Efficacy and safety of rufinamide in pediatric epilepsy

David T Hsieh1, Elizabeth A Thiele

  • 1Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.

Therapeutic Advances in Neurological Disorders
|May 2, 2013
PubMed

Insights

Rufinamide effectively treats seizures in children with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome and other refractory epilepsies. This review highlights its demonstrated efficacy and safety in pediatric epilepsy patients.

Area of Science:

  • Pharmacology
  • Neurology
  • Pediatrics

Background:

  • Rufinamide, an anticonvulsant, was approved by the US FDA in 2008.
  • It is indicated for seizures associated with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome in patients aged 4 years and older.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the use of rufinamide in pediatric epilepsy.
  • Focus on the efficacy and safety of rufinamide in this patient population.

Main Methods:

  • Review of clinical trials and clinical practice data.
  • Analysis of efficacy in treating various seizure types.
  • Assessment of safety and tolerability in children.

Main Results:

  • Rufinamide demonstrates clinical efficacy and tolerability in Lennox-Gastaut syndrome.
  • It is particularly effective for tonic-atonic seizures.
  • Emerging data suggest safety and effectiveness in broader pediatric epilepsy populations.

Conclusions:

  • Rufinamide shows promise for improving the care of children with epilepsy.
  • Further research and clinical experience are ongoing.
  • The medication is a valuable option for refractory pediatric epilepsy.

Keywords:
Lennox–Gastaut syndromeanticonvulsantsepilepsyrufinamide

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