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Published on: May 16, 2019
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Adjunctive perampanel therapy for patients with epileptic spasms
Ryuki Matsuura1,2, Shin-Ichiro Hamano1, Satoru Ikemoto1,2
1Division of Neurology, Saitama Children's Medical Center, Saitama, Japan.
Summary
Adjunctive perampanel therapy (PT) showed a 35.7% remission rate for epileptic spasms in children with structural etiologies. This study suggests PT may be beneficial for treating pediatric epileptic spasms, especially in older children.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Pediatric Neurology
- Epileptology
Background:
- Perampanel is an established antiepileptic drug.
- Previous research indicates potential efficacy in treating epileptic spasms.
- This study investigates perampanel's role as an adjunctive therapy for epileptic spasms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of adjunctive perampanel therapy (PT) in patients diagnosed with epileptic spasms.
- To determine the response rate and duration of remission in patients receiving PT.
- To assess the safety profile of PT in this patient population.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective survey of 14 patients with epileptic spasms treated with adjunctive PT.
- Evaluation of seizure outcomes and safety over a 12-month period post-initiation of PT.
- Response defined as complete remission of spasms for over 3 months.
Main Results:
- Five out of 14 patients (35.7%) achieved spasm remission for over 3 months.
- Remission was observed in patients with a structural etiology for their epileptic spasms.
- The median time to spasm remission was 2 months, with no serious adverse effects reported.
Conclusions:
- This is the first case series to examine adjunctive perampanel therapy for epileptic spasms.
- Perampanel therapy warrants further investigation for treating epileptic spasms, particularly in patients with structural etiologies.
- Findings suggest perampanel may be effective for infantile spasms beyond infancy, especially in children aged 2 years and older.
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