Juvenile myoclonic epilepsy--an experience from north western India.
OBJECTIVE
The clinical data on cases of Juvenile Myoclonic Epilepsy (JME) were analysed. Response to initial small dosages (lower than usual) of sodium valproate and further lower maintenance dosages in patients who were seizure free for 2 years on drug were assessed.


METHODS
Seventy-six patients who were diagnosed to have Juvenile Myoclonic Epilepsy on definite criteria were studied. All patients were put on sodium valproate in dosages (lower than usual) for initial control and further lower maintenance dosage and response evaluated.


RESULTS
The clinical profile was found to be similar as in other parts of India. There was a female preponderance and average delay of 4.9 years in final diagnosis. Forty-eight (63.1%) patients showed good control on 15 mg/kg/day dosages of sodium valproate. After a seizure free interval of 2 years, 58% of patients could be maintained on small dosages ranging from 3-5 mg/kg/day to 6-8 mg/kg/day.


CONCLUSIONS
The majority of JME patients responded well not only to sodium valproate in dosages lower than usually prescribed but required very small dosages for maintenance after a seizure free period of 2 years.
Panagariya
A
A
Department of Neurology, SMS Medical College, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India.
Sureka
R K
RK
Sardana
V
V
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000927:Anticonvulsants / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000494:pharmacology*; D002648:Child; D004334:Drug Administration Schedule; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007194:India; D008297:Male; D020190:Myoclonic Epilepsy, Juvenile / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000473:pathology; D012720:Severity of Illness Index; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014635:Valproic Acid / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000494:pharmacology*
D000927:Anticonvulsants; D014635:Valproic Acid