New Insights on Epilepsy Medications: What Families Should Know

Summary

This study looked at how new epilepsy medications have been prescribed in Sweden from 2013 to 2022. Researchers found that only 3% of patients with epilepsy used these newer medications, which include options like cannabidiol and brivaracetam. They noticed that younger patients were more likely to start these new treatments compared to older ones, and men were more likely to use cannabidiol.

One important finding was that most patients had tried more than two other medications before starting a new one. This suggests that many families are still searching for effective treatments for their child’s epilepsy. The study also showed that most patients continued to use other medications alongside the new ones, which is common for those with difficult-to-treat epilepsy.

These findings matter because they highlight how families are navigating treatment options and the ongoing challenges of managing epilepsy. While the newer medications are being used according to their approved guidelines, many patients still struggle to find the right combination of treatments.

For families today, this research emphasizes the importance of working closely with healthcare providers to explore all available options and find the best treatment plan for their child’s unique needs.

Original study: Read on source