The Epilepsy Book: A Companion for Patients by Thalia Valeta

Author:Thalia Valeta
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Springer International Publishing, Cham

15. Prophylactic Treatment with Antiepileptic Drugs (AED)

Thalia Valeta1, 2

(1)First Neurology and Psychiatry Clinic, University of Athens, Aeginition Hospital, Athens, Greece

(2)Department of Clinical Neurophysiology and Epilepsies, St. Thomas’ Hospital, London, UK

Abstract

The main treatment of epilepsy is usually with antiepileptic drugs taken daily for as long as the patient has active epilepsy (prophylactic treatment). The aim of treatment is total freedom or maximal reduction of seizures and best quality of life without significant side effects. Currently, there are 9 “old AEDs” and 17 “new AEDs”. Each of these AEDs, old or new, serves its own purpose, has specific efficacy in certain types of epileptic seizures, side effects, and interactions. AED, like any other drug, are associated with side effects. These may be mild and short-lived but others may be severe. Side effects of AEDs should be thoroughly sought and assessed in treated patients. Approximately, 70–80% of patients respond well to a single (monotherapy) or combined drug (polytherapy) prophylactic treatment.

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