Selection of antiepileptic drugs in adults.
Epilepsy affects approximately 50 million people worldwide, with an annual incidence of 50 to 70 cases per 100,000 population. The condition can strike at any time of life, with an immediate impact on everyday activities and routine. Key to optimal management is swift referral to an epilepsy specialist, appropriate investigation, and timely institution of antiepileptic drug therapy. In the past 20 years, the explosion of 13 new agents into the marketplace has greatly increased the potential for therapeutic intervention. This article explores the rationale for treatment selection in adults with epilepsy.
Stephen
Linda J
LJ
Division of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, Epilepsy Unit, Western Infirmary, Glasgow G11 6NT, Scotland, UK.
Brodie
Martin J
MJ
Division of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, Epilepsy Unit, Western Infirmary, Glasgow G11 6NT, Scotland, UK. Electronic address: mjb2k@clinmed.gla.ac.uk.
D000328:Adult; D000927:Anticonvulsants / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D004827:Epilepsy / Q000188:drug therapy*; D006801:Humans
D000927:Anticonvulsants