Trends, prescribing patterns and projections of antiseizure drug use in Europe

Epilepsy represents a significant global burden, with antiseizure drugs (ASDs) essential for treatment. This study examines past and recent trends in ASD consumption in 11 European countries, forecasts future developments, analyses Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical Classification (ATC) subgroup use, and offers an initial assessment of treatment sufficiency.

Publicly available consumption data were collected for ATC group N03A and its subgroups. Past trends in defined daily doses per 1000 inhabitants per day (DID) were analysed, and projections to 2030 were made using Auto Regressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA) models. For each country, treatment coverage relative to epilepsy prevalence was estimated.

In 2023, ASD consumption ranged from 6.9 to 14.0 DID, with varying past and projected trends. The most commonly and increasingly used subgroup was miscellaneous (e.g. levetiracetam). Other subgroup distributions differed across countries, with most showing declines. The analysed countries of Northern Europe had the highest use and share of miscellaneous drugs, while Southern and Eastern Europe showed greater use of barbiturates and benzodiazepines. Adjusted treatment coverage revealed potential undertreatment in several countries, particularly in Eastern Europe.

ASD use has shifted in subgroup patterns without a uniform trend in total volume, with strong regional differences. Evaluating treatment adequacy remains challenging due to non-epilepsy indications. The increase in miscellaneous use appears to be driven by broader applications rather than substitution for older ASDs. Evidence suggests a north-to-south-east gradient, with more rational use in Northern Europe. These disparities likely reflect systemic determinants. The ATC system's limitations reduce interpretative capability.