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Privitera MD, Mendoza LC, Carrazana E, Rabinowicz AL. Intracerebral electrographic activity following a single dose of diazepam nasal spray: A pilot study. Epilepsia Open 2024; 9:380-387. [PMID: 38131286 PMCID: PMC10839290 DOI: 10.1002/epi4.12890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Rescue benzodiazepine medication can be used to treat seizure clusters, which are intermittent, stereotypic episodes of frequent seizure activity that are distinct from a patient's usual seizure pattern. The NeuroPace RNS® System is a device that detects abnormal electrographic activity through intracranial electrodes and administers electrical stimulation to control seizures. Reductions in electrographic activity over days to weeks have been associated with the longer-term efficacy of daily antiseizure medications (ASMs). In this pilot study, electrographic activity over hours to days was examined to assess the impact of a single dose of a proven rescue therapy (diazepam nasal spray) with a rapid onset of action. METHODS Adult volunteers (>18 years old) with clinically indicated RNS (stable settings and ASM usage) received a weight-based dose of diazepam nasal spray in the absence of a clinical seizure. Descriptive statistics for a number of detections and a sum of durations of detections at 10-min, hourly, and 24-h intervals during the 7-day (predose) baseline period were calculated. Post-dose detections at each time interval were compared with the respective baseline-detection intervals using a 1 SD threshold. The number of long episodes that occurred after dosing also were compared with the baseline. RESULTS Five participants were enrolled, and four completed the study; the excluded participant had recurrent seizures during the study. There were no consistent changes (difference >1 SD) in detections between post-dose and mean baseline values. Although variability was high (1 SD was often near or exceeded the mean), three participants showed possible trends for reductions in one or more electrographic variables following treatment. SIGNIFICANCE RNS-assessed electrographic detections and durations were not shown to be sensitive measures of short-term effects associated with a single dose of rescue medication in this small group of participants. The variability of detections may have masked a measurable drug effect. PLAIN LANGUAGE SUMMARY Rescue drugs are used to treat seizure clusters. Responsive neurostimulation (RNS) devices detect and record epilepsy brain waves and then send a pulse to help stop seizures. This pilot study looked at whether one dose of a rescue treatment changes brain activity detected by RNS. There was a very wide range of detections, which made it difficult to see if or how the drug changed brain activity. New studies should look at other types of brain activity, multiple doses, and larger patient groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael D. Privitera
- Department of NeurologyUniversity of Cincinnati College of MedicineCincinnatiOhioUSA
| | - Lucy C. Mendoza
- Department of NeurologyUniversity of Cincinnati College of MedicineCincinnatiOhioUSA
| | - Enrique Carrazana
- Neurelis, Inc.San DiegoCaliforniaUSA
- John A. Burns School of MedicineUniversity of HawaiiHonoluluHawaiiUSA
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Penovich PE, Rao VR, Long L, Carrazana E, Rabinowicz AL. Benzodiazepines for the Treatment of Seizure Clusters. CNS Drugs 2024; 38:125-140. [PMID: 38358613 PMCID: PMC10881644 DOI: 10.1007/s40263-023-01060-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
Patients with epilepsy may experience seizure clusters, which are described by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as intermittent, stereotypic episodes of frequent seizure activity that are distinct from a patient's usual seizure pattern. Untreated seizure clusters may increase the risk for status epilepticus, as well as decrease quality of life and increase burden on patients and care partners. Benzodiazepine therapies are the mainstay for acute treatment of seizure clusters and are often administered by nonmedical care partners outside a healthcare facility. Three rescue therapies are currently FDA-approved for this indication, with diazepam rectal gel being the first in 1997, for patients aged ≥ 2 years. Limitations of rectal administration (e.g., positioning and disrobing the patient, which may affect ease of use and social acceptability; interpatient variation in bioavailability) led to the investigation of the potential for nasal administration as an alternative. Midazolam nasal spray (MDS) was approved by the FDA in 2019 for patients aged ≥ 12 years and diazepam nasal spray (DNS) in 2020 for patients aged ≥ 6 years; these two intranasal therapies have differences in their formulations [e.g., organic solvents (MDS) vs. Intravail and vitamin E for absorption and solubility (DNS)], effectiveness (e.g., proportion of seizure clusters requiring only one dose), and safety profiles. In clinical studies, the proportion of seizure clusters for which only one dose of medication was used varied between the three approved rescue therapies with the highest single-dose rate for any time period for DNS; however, although studies for all three preparations enrolled patients with highly intractable epilepsy, inclusion and exclusion criteria varied, so the three cannot be directly compared. Treatments that have been used off-label for seizure clusters in the USA include midazolam for injection as an intranasal spray (indicated for sedation/anxiolysis/amnesia and anesthesia) and tablet forms of clonazepam (indicated for treatment for seizure disorders) and lorazepam (indicated for anxiety). In the European Union, buccal and intranasal midazolam are used for treating the indication of prolonged, acute convulsive seizures and rectal diazepam solution for the indication of epileptic and febrile convulsions; duration of effectiveness for these medications for the treatment of seizure clusters has not been established. This paper examines the literature context for understanding seizure clusters and their treatment and provides effectiveness, safety, and administration details for the three FDA-approved rescue therapies. Additionally, other medications that are used for rescue therapy in the USA and globally are discussed. Finally, the potential benefits of seizure action plans and candidates for their use are addressed. This paper is intended to provide details about the unique characteristics of rescue therapies for seizure clusters to help clarify appropriate treatment for individual patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Vikram R Rao
- University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Lucretia Long
- Wexner Medical Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Enrique Carrazana
- Neurelis, Inc., San Diego, CA, USA
- John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, HI, USA
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Gidal B, Welty T, Cokley J, Farrell M, Shafer P, Rabinowicz AL, Carrazana E. Opportunities for Community Pharmacists to Counsel Patients With Epilepsy and Seizure Clusters to Overcome Barriers and Foster Appropriate Treatment. J Pharm Pract 2024; 37:190-197. [PMID: 36193947 PMCID: PMC10804691 DOI: 10.1177/08971900221126570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Some patients with epilepsy experience seizure clusters, which may be defined as 2 or more seizures occurring within 24 hours. Left untreated, seizure clusters increase the risk for physical injury and may progress to status epilepticus, irreversible neurologic injury, and death. Rescue therapy is based on benzodiazepine treatment. Prompt, appropriate use should be specified in patients' individualized seizure action plans. Most seizure clusters occur outside the hospital setting. The ideal rescue therapy allows for easy and quick administration by a nonmedical person, which may minimize the need for intervention by emergency medical personnel or transportation to the hospital. In the 2 decades before the approval of 2 intranasal benzodiazepines in 2019 and 2020, rectal diazepam was the only route of administration approved by the US Food and Drug Administration specifically for seizure clusters. Each of the approved intranasal formulations has a unique profile. Both offer a convenient and socially acceptable route of administration. Recognition of seizure clusters and timing of proper administration are key to successful use of rescue therapy. Pharmacists' counseling plays an important role in reinforcing when and how to appropriately administer rescue therapies and the importance of consistently using rescue treatment when indicated to promote effective management. This review includes resources for pharmacists, patients, and caregivers; reviews currently available treatments; and discusses seizure action plans that support effective treatment of seizure clusters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barry Gidal
- University of Wisconsin School of Pharmacy, Madison, WI, USA
| | | | - Jon Cokley
- Texas Children’s Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
- Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | | | | | | | - Enrique Carrazana
- Neurelis, Inc., San Diego, CA, USA
- John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, HI, USA
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4
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Misra SN, Jarrar R, Stern JM, Becker DA, Carrazana E, Rabinowicz AL. Rapid Rescue Treatment with Diazepam Nasal Spray Leads to Faster Seizure Cluster Termination in Epilepsy: An Exploratory Post Hoc Cohort Analysis. Neurol Ther 2024; 13:221-231. [PMID: 38175488 PMCID: PMC10787722 DOI: 10.1007/s40120-023-00568-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Although prompt treatment of status epilepticus is standard of care, the effect of timing of rescue therapy administration for seizure clusters in epilepsy remains unknown. Seizure clusters are a rare but clinically important condition, and benzodiazepines are the cornerstone rescue therapy for seizure clusters in epilepsy. We characterized temporal patterns from a large dataset of treated seizure clusters in the safety study of diazepam nasal spray. METHODS This post hoc analysis used timing data of treated seizure clusters recorded by care partners and patients in seizure diaries during a 1-year safety study. Data analysis used time from seizure start to administration of diazepam. RESULTS From 4466 observations, 3225 had data meeting criteria for analysis. Overall, median times from seizure start to dose administration, dose administration to seizure termination, and total seizure duration were 2, 3, and 7 min, respectively. In seizure clusters treated in < 5 min (median 1.0 min), median time from dose to seizure termination was 2.0 min, and median total seizure duration was 4.0 min. Among seizure clusters treated in ≥ 5 min (median 10.0 min), median time to seizure termination was 10.0 min, and median total seizure duration was 23.0 min. Previously published safety results reported that over a mean participation of 1.5 years, 82.2% of patients had ≥ 1 treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) irrespective of relationship to treatment, including 30.7% with serious TEAEs; 18.4% had TEAEs deemed at least possibly related to the study drug, none of which were serious. There were no events of cardiorespiratory depression. CONCLUSION Echoing the importance of early use of benzodiazepines in status epilepticus, the findings from this exploratory analysis of patients with refractory epilepsy and frequent seizure clusters identify a potential benefit of early diazepam nasal spray treatment leading to faster seizure resolution within the seizure cluster. Trial Registration Information: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT02721069 ( https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02721069 ).
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunita N Misra
- Formerly of Clinical Development and Medical Affairs, Neurelis, Inc., San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Randa Jarrar
- Department of Neurology, Phoenix Children's Hospital, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - John M Stern
- Department of Neurology, Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Danielle A Becker
- Department of Neurology, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Enrique Carrazana
- Clinical Development and Medical Affairs, Neurelis, Inc., 3430 Carmel Mountain Rd, Suite 300, San Diego, CA, 92121, USA
- Department of Family Medicine, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | - Adrian L Rabinowicz
- Clinical Development and Medical Affairs, Neurelis, Inc., 3430 Carmel Mountain Rd, Suite 300, San Diego, CA, 92121, USA.
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Becker DA, Wheless JW, Sirven J, Tatum WO, Rabinowicz AL, Carrazana E. Treatment of Seizure Clusters in Epilepsy: A Narrative Review on Rescue Therapies. Neurol Ther 2023; 12:1439-1455. [PMID: 37341903 PMCID: PMC10444935 DOI: 10.1007/s40120-023-00515-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Epilepsy is a common neurological disorder in the United States, affecting approximately 1.2% of the population. Some people with epilepsy may experience seizure clusters, which are acute repetitive seizures that differ from the person's usual seizure pattern. Seizure clusters are unpredictable, are emotionally burdensome to patients and caregivers (including care partners), and require prompt treatment to prevent progression to serious outcomes, including status epilepticus and associated morbidity (e.g., lacerations, fractures due to falls) and mortality. Rescue medications for community use can be administered to terminate a seizure cluster, and benzodiazepines are the cornerstone of rescue treatment. Despite the effectiveness of benzodiazepines and the importance of a rapid treatment approach, as many as 80% of adult patients do not use rescue medication to treat seizure clusters. This narrative review provides an update on rescue medications used for treatment of seizure clusters, with an emphasis on clinical development and study programs for diazepam rectal gel, midazolam nasal spray, and diazepam nasal spray. Results from long-term clinical trials have shown that treatments for seizure clusters are effective. Intranasal benzodiazepines provide ease of use and patient and caregiver satisfaction in pediatric and adult patients. Adverse events attributed to acute rescue treatments have been characterized as mild to moderate, and no reports of respiratory depression have been attributed to treatment in long-term safety studies. The implementation of an acute seizure action plan to facilitate optimal use of rescue medications provides an opportunity for improved management of seizure clusters, allowing those affected to resume normal daily activities more quickly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle A Becker
- Department of Neurology, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA.
| | - James W Wheless
- Le Bonheur Children's Hospital, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Joseph Sirven
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | | | | | - Enrique Carrazana
- Neurelis, Inc., San Diego, CA, USA
- John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, HI, USA
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Ramsay RE, Becker D, Vazquez B, Birnbaum AK, Misra SN, Carrazana E, Rabinowicz AL. Acute Abortive Therapies for Seizure Clusters in Long-Term Care. J Am Med Dir Assoc 2023:S1525-8610(23)00405-X. [PMID: 37253432 DOI: 10.1016/j.jamda.2023.04.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Revised: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To describe acute seizure treatment for the long-term care setting, emphasizing rescue (acute abortive) medications for on-site management of acute unexpected seizures and seizure clusters. DESIGN Narrative review. SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS People with seizures in long-term care, including group residences. METHODS PubMed was searched using keywords that pertained to rescue medications, seizure emergencies/epilepsy, seizure action plans, and long-term care. RESULTS Seizure disorder, including epilepsy, is prevalent in long-term care residences, and rescue medications can be used for on-site treatment. Diazepam rectal gel, intranasal midazolam, and diazepam nasal spray are US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved seizure-cluster rescue medications, and intravenous diazepam and lorazepam are approved for status epilepticus. Benzodiazepines differ by formulation, route of administration, absorption, and metabolism. Intranasal formulations are easy and ideal for public use and when rectal treatment is challenging (eg, wheelchair). Intranasal, intrabuccal, and rectal formulations do not require specialized training to administer and are easier for staff at all levels of training compared with intravenous treatment. Off-label rescue medications may have anecdotal support; however, potential disadvantages include variable absorption and onset of action as well as potential risks to patients and caregivers/care partners. Delivery of intravenous-administered rescue medications is delayed by the time needed to set up and deliver the medication and is subject to dosing errors. Seizure action plans that include management of acute seizures can optimize the quality and timing of treatment, which may reduce emergency service needs and prevent progression to status epilepticus. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Seizure disorder is prevalent across all ages but is increased in older adults and in those with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Prompt intervention may reduce negative outcomes associated with acute unexpected seizures and seizure clusters. Seizure action plans that include acute seizures can improve the treatment response by detailing the necessary information for staff to provide immediate treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Eugene Ramsay
- International Center for Epilepsy, St. Bernard Parish Medical Center, New Orleans, LA, USA.
| | - Danielle Becker
- Department of Neurology, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Blanca Vazquez
- Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, New York University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Angela K Birnbaum
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | | | - Enrique Carrazana
- Neurelis, Inc, San Diego, CA, USA; John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, HI, USA
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O'Hara K, Dewar S, Bougher G, Dean P, Misra SN, Desai J. Overcoming barriers to the management of seizure clusters: ease of use and time to administration of rescue medications. Expert Rev Neurother 2023; 23:425-432. [PMID: 37126472 DOI: 10.1080/14737175.2023.2206568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Patients with epilepsy can experience seizure clusters (acute repetitive seizures), defined as intermittent, stereotypic episodes of frequent seizure activity that are distinct from typical seizure patterns. There are three FDA-approved rescue medications, diazepam rectal gel, midazolam nasal spray, and diazepam nasal spray, that can be administered to abort a seizure cluster in a nonmedical, community setting. Despite their effectiveness and safety, rescue medications are underutilized, and patient/caregiver experiences and perceptions of ease of use may constitute a substantial barrier to greater utilization. AREAS COVERED The literature on rescue medications for seizure clusters is reviewed, including the effectiveness and safety, with an emphasis on ease and timing of treatment and associated outcomes. Barriers to greater utilization of rescue medication and the role of seizure action plans are discussed. EXPERT OPINION Intranasal rescue medications are easier to use and can be administered more rapidly than other routes (rectal, intravenous). Importantly, rapid administration of intranasal rescue medications has been associated with shorter durations of seizure activity as compared with rectal/intravenous routes. Intranasal rescue medications are also easy to use and socially acceptable. These factors potentially remove or reduce barriers to use and optimize the management of seizure clusters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn O'Hara
- Department of Neurology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Sandra Dewar
- Department of Neurology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Genei Bougher
- Northwest Florida Clinical Research Group, LLC, Gulf Breeze, FL, USA
- Child Neurology Center of Northwest Florida, Gulf Breeze, FL, USA
| | - Patricia Dean
- Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Nicklaus Children's Hospital, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Sunita N Misra
- Clinical Development & Medical Affairs, Neurelis, Inc, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Jay Desai
- Division of Neurology, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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Rescue Medications for Acute Repetitive Seizures. Curr Treat Options Neurol 2023. [DOI: 10.1007/s11940-023-00746-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/07/2023]
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Jafarpour S, Fong MWK, Detyniecki K, Khan A, Jackson-Shaheed E, Wang X, Lewis S, Benjamin R, Gaínza-Lein M, O'Bryan J, Hirsch LJ, Loddenkemper T. Prevalence and Predictors of Seizure Clusters in Pediatric Patients With Epilepsy: The Harvard-Yale Pediatric Seizure Cluster Study. Pediatr Neurol 2022; 137:22-29. [PMID: 36208614 DOI: 10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2022.08.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Determine the prevalence of seizure clusters (two or more seizures in six hours), use of rescue medications, and adverse outcomes associated with seizure clusters in pediatric patients with a range of epilepsy severities, and identify risk factors predictive of seizure clusters. METHODS Prospective observational two-center study, including phone call and seizure diary follow-up for 12 months in patients with epilepsy aged one month to 18 years. We classified patients into three risk groups based on seizures within the prior year: high, seizure cluster (two or more seizures within one day); intermediate, at least one seizure but no days with two or more seizures; low, no seizures. RESULTS One-third (32.3%; high risk, 72.4%; intermediate risk, 30.4%; low risk, 3.1%) of 297 patients had a seizure cluster during the study, including half (46.2%) of the patients with active seizures at baseline (intermediate- and high-risk groups combined). Emergency room visits or injuries were no more likely due to a seizure cluster than an isolated seizure. Rescue medications were utilized in 15.8% of patients in the high-risk group and 19.2% in the intermediate-risk group. History of status epilepticus (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 2.13; confidence interval [CI], 1.09 to 4.16]), seizure frequency greater than four per month (aOR, 4.27; CI, 1.92 to 9.50), and high-risk group status (aOR, 6.42; CI, 2.97 to 13.87) were associated with greater odds of seizure cluster. CONCLUSIONS Seizure clusters are common in pediatric patients with epilepsy. High seizure frequency was the strongest predictor of clusters. Rescue medications were underutilized. Future studies should evaluate the applicability and effectiveness of these medications for optimization of pediatric seizure cluster treatment and reduction of seizure-related emergency department visits, injuries, and mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saba Jafarpour
- Division of Epilepsy and Clinical Neurophysiology, Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts; Division of Neurology, Children's Hospital of Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Michael W K Fong
- Department of Neurology, Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut; TY Nelson Department of Neurology, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, Australia; Westmead Comprehensive Epilepsy Unit, Westmead Hospital, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Kamil Detyniecki
- Department of Neurology, Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut; Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Department of Neurology, University of Miami, Miami, Florida
| | - Ambar Khan
- Department of Neurology, Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut; Larkin Community Hospital, South Miami, Florida
| | - Ebony Jackson-Shaheed
- Department of Neurology, Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut; VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut
| | - Xiaofan Wang
- Division of Epilepsy and Clinical Neurophysiology, Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Samuel Lewis
- Division of Epilepsy and Clinical Neurophysiology, Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts; Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Robert Benjamin
- Division of Epilepsy and Clinical Neurophysiology, Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts; Department of Surgery, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts
| | - Marina Gaínza-Lein
- Division of Epilepsy and Clinical Neurophysiology, Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts; Instituto dr Pediatria, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile; Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Jane O'Bryan
- Department of Neurology, Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Lawrence J Hirsch
- Department of Neurology, Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Tobias Loddenkemper
- Division of Epilepsy and Clinical Neurophysiology, Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.
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Rathi R, Sanshita, Kumar A, Vishvakarma V, Huanbutta K, Singh I, Sangnim T. Advancements in Rectal Drug Delivery Systems: Clinical Trials, and Patents Perspective. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:2210. [PMID: 36297645 PMCID: PMC9609333 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14102210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2022] [Revised: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The rectal route is an effective route for the local and systemic delivery of active pharmaceutical ingredients. The environment of the rectum is relatively constant with low enzymatic activity and is favorable for drugs having poor oral absorption, extensive first-pass metabolism, gastric irritation, stability issues in the gastric environment, localized activity, and for drugs that cannot be administered by other routes. The present review addresses the rectal physiology, rectal diseases, and pharmaceutical factors influencing rectal delivery of drugs and discusses different rectal drug delivery systems including suppositories, suspensions, microspheres, nanoparticles, liposomes, tablets, and hydrogels. Clinical trials on various rectal drug delivery systems are presented in tabular form. Applications of different novel drug delivery carriers viz. nanoparticles, liposomes, solid lipid nanoparticles, microspheres, transferosomes, nano-niosomes, and nanomicelles have been discussed and demonstrated for their potential use in rectal administration. Various opportunities and challenges for rectal delivery including recent advancements and patented formulations for rectal drug delivery have also been included.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ritu Rathi
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Rajpura 140401, India
| | - Sanshita
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Rajpura 140401, India
| | - Alpesh Kumar
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Rajpura 140401, India
| | | | | | - Inderbir Singh
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Rajpura 140401, India
| | - Tanikan Sangnim
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Burapha University, Chonburi 20131, Thailand
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11
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Kotloski RJ, Gidal BE. Rescue Treatments for Seizure Clusters. Neurol Clin 2022; 40:927-937. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ncl.2022.03.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
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Gidal B, Detyniecki K. Rescue therapies for seizure clusters: Pharmacology and target of treatments. Epilepsia 2022; 63 Suppl 1:S34-S44. [PMID: 35999174 PMCID: PMC9543841 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
The primary goal of treatment for seizure clusters is cessation of the cluster to avoid progression to more severe conditions, such as prolonged seizures and status epilepticus. Rescue therapies are key components of treatment plans for patients with seizure clusters. Three rescue therapies are approved in the United States for the treatment of seizure clusters: diazepam rectal gel, midazolam nasal spray, and diazepam nasal spray. This review characterizes the pharmacological function of rescue therapies for seizure clusters, as well as describing γ‐aminobutyric acid A (GABAA) receptor functions. GABAA receptors are heteropentamers, consisting primarily of α1‐6, β1‐3, γ2, and δ subunits in the central nervous system. These subunits can traffic to and from the membrane to regulate membrane potential. Benzodiazepines, such as diazepam and midazolam, are positive allosteric modulators of GABAA receptors, the activation of which leads to an increase in intracellular chloride, hyperpolarization of the cell membrane, and a reduction in excitation. GABAA receptor subunit mutations, dysregulation of trafficking, and degradation are associated with epilepsy. Although benzodiazepines are effective GABAA receptor modulators, individual formulations have unique profiles in practice. Diazepam rectal gel is an effective rescue therapy for seizure clusters; however, adults and adolescents may have social reservations regarding its administration. Intranasal delivery of midazolam or diazepam is a promising alternative to rectal administration because these formulations offer easy, socially acceptable administration and exhibit a rapid onset. Off‐label benzodiazepines, such as orally disintegrating lorazepam and intranasal use of an intravenous formulation of midazolam via nasal atomizer, are less well characterized regarding bioavailability and tolerability compared with approved agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barry Gidal
- School of Pharmacy, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, United States
| | - Kamil Detyniecki
- Department of Neurology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, United States
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Haut SR, Nabbout R. Recognizing seizure clusters in the community: The path to uniformity and individualization in nomenclature and definition. Epilepsia 2022; 63 Suppl 1:S6-S13. [PMID: 35999176 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Seizure emergencies experienced by patients with epilepsy include status epilepticus and seizure clusters. Although an accepted definition of status epilepticus exists, no clear consensus definition of seizure clusters has emerged; this is further complicated by the appearance in the literature of various empirically based definitions that have been developed for clinical trial study designs. In general, patients with intractable epilepsy have been shown to have a significant risk for acute episodes of increased seizure activity called seizure clusters (also referred to as acute repetitive seizures, among other terms) that differ from their usual seizure pattern. Duration (e.g., number of hours or days) is often included in the definition of a seizure cluster; however, the duration may vary among patients, with some seizure clusters lasting ≥24 h and requiring long-acting treatment for this period. In addition to seizure cluster duration, the time between seizures and possible acceleration in seizure frequency during the cluster may be important variables. The recognition and treatment of seizure clusters require urgent action because episodes that are not quickly and appropriately treated may lead to injury or progress to status epilepticus or potentially death. Most seizure clusters occur outside a medical facility (in the community) and treatment is usually administered by nonmedical individuals; therefore, health care providers may benefit from a clear description of these potential seizure emergencies that they can then use to educate patients and caregivers on the prompt and appropriate identification of seizure clusters and administration of rescue therapy. Here we explore why greater uniformity is needed in the discussion of seizure clusters. This exploration examines epidemiologic studies of seizure clusters and status epilepticus, inconsistencies in nomenclature and definitions for seizure clusters, practical application of seizure cluster terminology, and the potential use of acute seizure action plans and patient-specific individualized definitions in the clinical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheryl R Haut
- Comprehensive Epilepsy Management Center, Einstein-Montefiore, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Rima Nabbout
- Reference Center for Rare Epilepsies, Department of Pediatric Neurology, Hôpital Necker Enfants Malades, APHP, EPICARE European Reference Network, Université de Paris Cité, Institut Imagine, Inserm U1163, Paris, France
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14
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Safety of Diazepam Nasal Spray in Children and Adolescents With Epilepsy: Results From a Long-Term Phase 3 Safety Study. Pediatr Neurol 2022; 132:50-55. [PMID: 35636283 DOI: 10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2022.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Revised: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To evaluate safety and tolerability of long-term treatment with diazepam nasal spray (Valtoco) for seizure clusters in patients aged six to 17 years. METHODS The study enrolled patients aged six to 65 years with frequent seizure clusters. Age- and weight-based doses of diazepam nasal spray were administered; second doses were permitted if needed. Safety assessments included treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs). RESULTS Of 163 treated patients, 45 (27.6%) were aged six to 11 years and 33 (20.2%) were aged 12 to 17 years. Mean doses per month were 2.1 in the 6 to 11 subgroup and 2.4 in the 12 to 17 subgroup. Of 1634 seizure clusters in pediatric patients, 186 (11.4%) required a second dose of diazepam nasal spray within 24 hours of the first dose. Similar proportions of TEAEs and serious TEAEs were reported in 6 to 11 (91.1%, 40.0%) and 12 to 17 subgroups (81.8%, 30.3%), respectively. No serious TEAEs were considered treatment related, and no patients discontinued because of TEAEs. Treatment-related TEAEs were more frequent in the 12 to 17 subgroup; only epistaxis and somnolence occurred in two or more patients overall. TEAE rates were similar across subgroups that received concomitant clobazam (90.0%), received prior diazepam rectal gel (90.9%), and were administered less than two versus greater than or equal to two doses per month (87.2% for both) of diazepam nasal spray. Most survey respondents (88%) were satisfied or very satisfied with treatment. CONCLUSIONS In this long-term safety analysis in pediatric patients with seizure clusters, repeated doses of diazepam nasal spray demonstrated a safety profile consistent across subgroups. These data support the dosing guidelines for diazepam nasal spray according to age and weight for pediatric patients.
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15
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Cascino GD, Tarquinio D, Wheless JW, Hogan RE, Sperling MR, Desai J, Vazquez B, Samara E, Misra SN, Carrazana E, Rabinowicz AL. Lack of Clinically Relevant Differences in Safety and Pharmacokinetics After Second-Dose Administration of Intranasal Diazepam Within 4 Hours for Acute Treatment of Seizure Clusters: A Population Analysis. Epilepsia 2022; 63:1714-1723. [PMID: 35377464 PMCID: PMC9543781 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Revised: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Objective Current diazepam nasal spray labeling requires waiting 4 h before administering a second dose. The objective of the current analyses was to examine safety and pharmacokinetic profiles of second doses of diazepam nasal spray given 0−4 h after the first dose. Methods Two datasets were analyzed. The first, a long‐term, repeat‐dose safety study of diazepam nasal spray, compared rates of treatment‐emergent adverse events (TEAEs), serious TEAEs, and treatment‐related TEAEs for patients receiving ≥1 second dose ≤4 h versus all second doses >4 h after the first. The second was a population pharmacokinetic analysis using data from three phase 1 studies to model drug exposure when a second dose of diazepam nasal spray was administered across multiple time points (1 min−4 h) following the first dose. Results In the repeat‐dose safety study, a second dose of diazepam nasal spray was administered ≤24 h after the first to treat 485 seizure clusters in 79 patients. Rates of TEAEs were similar between patients receiving ≥1 second dose in ≤4 h (89.5%, n = 38) compared with >4–24 h only (80.5%, n = 41). The most common treatment‐related TEAEs were associated with nasal discomfort, which was mild or moderate and transient. There were no reports of respiratory or cardiac depression. The pharmacokinetic simulations of second doses predicted comparable elevations of plasma diazepam concentrations with administrations across a range of intervals after the first dose (1 min−4 h). Significance These data indicate that the safety and pharmacokinetic profiles of a second dose of diazepam nasal spray administered within 4 h of the first dose are consistent with those associated with current labeling. This is potentially important for patients with seizure clusters who have a recurrent seizure within 4 h of first treatment and might benefit from immediate retreatment to reduce the risk of progression to status epilepticus.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - James W Wheless
- Le Bonheur Children's Hospital, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
| | | | | | - Jay Desai
- Children's Hospital of Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Blanca Vazquez
- New York University, Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Emil Samara
- PharmaPolaris International, Inc, Washington, DC, USA
| | | | - Enrique Carrazana
- Neurelis, Inc., San Diego, CA, USA.,John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, HI, USA
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16
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Benzodiazepines in the Management of Seizures and Status Epilepticus: A Review of Routes of Delivery, Pharmacokinetics, Efficacy, and Tolerability. CNS Drugs 2022; 36:951-975. [PMID: 35971024 PMCID: PMC9477921 DOI: 10.1007/s40263-022-00940-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Status epilepticus (SE) is an acute, life-threatening medical condition that requires immediate, effective therapy. Therefore, the acute care of prolonged seizures and SE is a constant challenge for healthcare professionals, in both the pre-hospital and the in-hospital settings. Benzodiazepines (BZDs) are the first-line treatment for SE worldwide due to their efficacy, tolerability, and rapid onset of action. Although all BZDs act as allosteric modulators at the inhibitory gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)A receptor, the individual agents have different efficacy profiles and pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties, some of which differ significantly. The conventional BZDs clonazepam, diazepam, lorazepam and midazolam differ mainly in their durations of action and available routes of administration. In addition to the common intravenous, intramuscular and rectal administrations that have long been established in the acute treatment of SE, other administration routes for BZDs-such as intranasal administration-have been developed in recent years, with some preparations already commercially available. Most recently, the intrapulmonary administration of BZDs via an inhaler has been investigated. This narrative review provides an overview of the current knowledge on the efficacy and tolerability of different BZDs, with a focus on different routes of administration and therapeutic specificities for different patient groups, and offers an outlook on potential future drug developments for the treatment of prolonged seizures and SE.
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17
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Samanta D. Rescue therapies for seizure emergencies: current and future landscape. Neurol Sci 2021; 42:4017-4027. [PMID: 34269935 PMCID: PMC8448953 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-021-05468-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Seizure emergencies-status epilepticus and seizure clusters-require rapid evaluation and treatment. Several consensus-based guidelines support a prompt use of intravenous benzodiazepines as the first-line therapy in seizure emergencies. However, most seizure emergencies start outside the hospital settings. Until recently, approved prehospital rescue therapies were limited to rectal diazepam and buccal midazolam (Europe only). METHODS The author provides a narrative review of rescue therapies for seizure emergencies based on a comprehensive literature review (PubMed and OvidSP vendors with appropriate keywords to incorporate recent evidence) to highlight the changing landscape of seizure recue therapies. RESULTS A commercial version of intranasal midazolam was approved by the FDA in 2019 for 12 ≥ years old with seizure clusters. In 2020, the FDA also approved a proprietary vitamin E solution-based diazepam nose spray to abort seizure clusters in ≥ 6 years old subjects. Other than these two new options, the author discussed two previously approved therapies: rectal diazepam and buccal midazolam. The review also includes the use of intramuscular diazepam and midazolam, clonazepam wafer, sublingual and intranasal lorazepam in seizure emergencies. Besides the availability of new therapies from successful trials in controlled settings, the real-world challenges of using rescue medicines in community settings are slowly emerging. DISCUSSION With multiple options, a more robust and updated cost-effective analysis of different rescue medicines needs to be performed using effectiveness data from the literature and cost data from publicly available market prices. Further research is also ongoing to develop alternative non-intravenous treatment options for outpatient settings. Lastly, several other non-benzodiazepine drugs, such as allopregnanolone, propofol, and brivaracetam, are also currently under development for seizure emergencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debopam Samanta
- Child Neurology Section, Department of Pediatrics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 1 Children's Way, Little Rock, AR, 72202, USA.
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18
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Wheless JW, Miller I, Hogan RE, Dlugos D, Biton V, Cascino GD, Sperling MR, Liow K, Vazquez B, Segal EB, Tarquinio D, Mauney W, Desai J, Rabinowicz AL, Carrazana E. Final results from a Phase 3, long-term, open-label, repeat-dose safety study of diazepam nasal spray for seizure clusters in patients with epilepsy. Epilepsia 2021; 62:2485-2495. [PMID: 34418086 PMCID: PMC9290500 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Revised: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Objective A Phase 3 open‐label safety study (NCT02721069) evaluated long‐term safety of diazepam nasal spray (Valtoco) in patients with epilepsy and frequent seizure clusters. Methods Patients were 6–65 years old with diagnosed epilepsy and seizure clusters despite stable antiseizure medications. The treatment period was 12 months, with study visits at Day 30 and every 60 days thereafter, after which patients could elect to continue. Doses were based on age and weight. Seizure and treatment information was recorded in diaries. Treatment‐emergent adverse events (TEAEs), nasal irritation, and olfactory changes were recorded. Results Of 163 patients in the safety population, 117 (71.8%) completed the study. Duration of exposure was ≥12 months for 81.6% of patients. There was one death (sudden unexpected death in epilepsy) and one withdrawal owing to a TEAE (major depression), both considered unlikely to be related to treatment. Diazepam nasal spray was administered 4390 times for 3853 seizure clusters, with 485 clusters treated with a second dose within 24 h; 53.4% of patients had monthly average usage of one to two doses, 41.7% two to five doses, and 4.9% more than five doses. No serious TEAEs were considered to be treatment related. TEAEs possibly or probably related to treatment (n = 30) were most commonly nasal discomfort (6.1%); headache (2.5%); and dysgeusia, epistaxis, and somnolence (1.8% each). Only 13 patients (7.9%) showed nasal irritation, and there were no relevant olfactory changes. The safety profile of diazepam nasal spray was generally similar across subgroups based on age, monthly usage, concomitant benzodiazepine therapy, or seasonal allergy/rhinitis. Significance In this large open‐label safety study, the safety profile of diazepam nasal spray was consistent with the established profile of rectal diazepam, and the high retention rate supports effectiveness in this population. A second dose was used in only 12.6% of seizure clusters.
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Affiliation(s)
- James W Wheless
- Le Bonheur Children's Hospital, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Ian Miller
- Formerly Nicklaus Children's Hospital, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - R Edward Hogan
- Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Dennis Dlugos
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Victor Biton
- Arkansas Epilepsy Program, Little Rock, Arkansas, USA
| | | | | | - Kore Liow
- Hawaii Pacific Neuroscience, Honolulu, Hawaii, USA
| | - Blanca Vazquez
- New York University, Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Eric B Segal
- Hackensack University Medical Center and Northeast Regional Epilepsy Group, Hackensack, New Jersey, USA
| | | | - Weldon Mauney
- Northwest Florida Clinical Research Group, Gulf Breeze, Florida, USA
| | - Jay Desai
- Children's Hospital of Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
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19
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Abstract
Acute repetitive seizures, also called seizure clusters, are common phenomena in patients with epilepsy. They are a burden on patients and their caregivers and may be very disruptive to the patients' lives. They may progress to prolonged seizures or status epilepticus if they are not aborted as soon as possible. However, their definition, recognition, and classification still suffer from a lack of consensus among healthcare professionals in the field. This review aims to shed light on various aspects of seizure clusters with particular attention to their treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boulenouar Mesraoua
- Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar.,Weill Cornell Medical College, Doha, Qatar
| | - Bassel Abou-Khalil
- Department of Neurology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | | | - Gayane Melikyan
- Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar.,Weill Cornell Medical College, Doha, Qatar
| | - Hassan Al Hail
- Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar.,Weill Cornell Medical College, Doha, Qatar
| | - Ali A Asadi-Pooya
- Epilepsy Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.,Jefferson Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Department of Neurology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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20
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Higdon LM, Sperling MR. A review of a diazepam nasal spray for the treatment of acute seizure clusters and prolonged seizures. Expert Rev Neurother 2021; 21:1207-1212. [PMID: 34374629 DOI: 10.1080/14737175.2021.1965880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Some people with epilepsy experience acute repetitive seizures (ARS), also termed seizure clusters, which have a negative impact on patient and caregiver quality of life, emotional wellbeing, daily function, and may pose risk of injury or death. In addition, these events increase healthcare utilization in emergency departments and hospitals, which might be avoided with use of an at-home rescue medication. Intranasal formulations of benzodiazepines used as rescue medications provide a means of delivering rescue medication that is socially acceptable and more easily administered than rectal drug. AREAS COVERED This article provides a review of intranasal diazepam covering development, pharmacokinetics, dosing, safety, adverse effects, and efficacy. The authors compare it with rectal diazepam and intranasal midazolam. EXPERT OPINION Intranasal rescue drugs are a valuable treatment modality for seizure clusters and prolonged seizures that are effective and well tolerated with the potential to enhance patient quality of life, reduce the incidence of seizure-related injury, and lessen the need for hospital visits. The literature does not provide evidence comparing the various rescue agents, and head-to-head comparison studies are needed. An inhaled benzodiazepine as a seizure rescue drug is currently undergoing clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay M Higdon
- Jefferson Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Department of Neurology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Michael R Sperling
- Jefferson Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Department of Neurology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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21
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Almohaish S, Sandler M, Brophy GM. Time Is Brain: Acute Control of Repetitive Seizures and Status Epilepticus Using Alternative Routes of Administration of Benzodiazepines. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10081754. [PMID: 33920722 PMCID: PMC8073514 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10081754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2021] [Revised: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Time plays a major role in seizure evaluation and treatment. Acute repetitive seizures and status epilepticus are medical emergencies that require immediate assessment and treatment for optimal therapeutic response. Benzodiazepines are considered the first-line agent for rapid seizure control. Thus, various routes of administration of benzodiazepines have been studied to facilitate a quick, effective, and easy therapy administration. Choosing the right agent may vary based on the drug and route properties, patient’s environment, caregiver’s skills, and drug accessibility. The pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic aspects of benzodiazepines are essential in the decision-making process. Ultimately, agents and routes that give the highest bioavailability, fastest absorption, and a modest duration are preferred. In the outpatient setting, intranasal and buccal routes appear to be equally effective and more rapidly administered than rectal diazepam. On the other hand, in the inpatient setting, if available, the IV route is ideal for benzodiazepine administration to avoid any potential absorption delay. In this article, we will provide an overview and comparison of the various routes of benzodiazepine administration for acute control of repetitive seizures and status epilepticus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sulaiman Almohaish
- Department of Pharmacotherapy and Outcomes Science, School of Pharmacy, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA; (S.A.); (M.S.)
- College of Clinical Pharmacy, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa 3198, Saudi Arabia
| | - Melissa Sandler
- Department of Pharmacotherapy and Outcomes Science, School of Pharmacy, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA; (S.A.); (M.S.)
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
| | - Gretchen M. Brophy
- Department of Pharmacotherapy and Outcomes Science, School of Pharmacy, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA; (S.A.); (M.S.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-(804)-828-1201
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22
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Barcia Aguilar C, Sánchez Fernández I, Loddenkemper T. Status Epilepticus-Work-Up and Management in Children. Semin Neurol 2020; 40:661-674. [PMID: 33155182 DOI: 10.1055/s-0040-1719076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Status epilepticus (SE) is one of the most common neurological emergencies in children and has a mortality of 2 to 4%. Admissions for SE are very resource-consuming, especially in refractory and super-refractory SE. An increasing understanding of the pathophysiology of SE leaves room for improving SE treatment protocols, including medication choice and timing. Selecting the most efficacious medications and giving them in a timely manner may improve outcomes. Benzodiazepines are commonly used as first line and they can be used in the prehospital setting, where most SE episodes begin. The diagnostic work-up should start simultaneously to initial treatment, or as soon as possible, to detect potentially treatable causes of SE. Although most etiologies are recognized after the first evaluation, the detection of more unusual causes may become challenging in selected cases. SE is a life-threatening medical emergency in which prompt and efficacious treatment may improve outcomes. We provide a summary of existing evidence to guide clinical decisions regarding the work-up and treatment of SE in pediatric patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Barcia Aguilar
- Division of Epilepsy and Clinical Neurophysiology, Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.,Department of Child Neurology, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Iván Sánchez Fernández
- Division of Epilepsy and Clinical Neurophysiology, Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.,Department of Child Neurology, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, University of Barcelona, Spain
| | - Tobias Loddenkemper
- Division of Epilepsy and Clinical Neurophysiology, Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
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23
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Sánchez Fernández I, Gaínza-Lein M, Barcia Aguilar C, Amengual-Gual M, Loddenkemper T. The burden of decisional uncertainty in the treatment of status epilepticus. Epilepsia 2020; 61:2150-2162. [PMID: 32959410 DOI: 10.1111/epi.16646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2020] [Revised: 07/21/2020] [Accepted: 07/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Treatments for convulsive status epilepticus (SE) have a wide range of effectiveness. The estimated effectiveness of non-intravenous benzodiazepines (non-IV BZDs) ranges from approximately 70% to 90% and the estimated effectiveness of non-benzodiazepine antiseizure medications (non-BZD ASMs) ranges from approximately 50% to 80%. This study aimed to quantify the clinical and economic burden of decisional uncertainty in the treatment of SE. METHODS We performed a decision analysis that evaluates how decisional uncertainty on treatment choices for SE impacts hospital admissions, intensive care unit (ICU) admissions, and costs in the United States. We evaluated treatment effectiveness based on the available literature. RESULTS Use of a non-IV BZD with high estimated effectiveness, like intranasal midazolam, rather than one with low estimated effectiveness, like rectal diazepam, would result in a median (p25 -p75 ) reduction in hospital admissions from 6 (3.9-8.8) to 1.1 (0.7-1.8) per 100 cases and associated cost reductions of $638 ($289-$1064) per pediatric patient and $1107 ($972-$1281) per adult patient. For BZD-resistant SE, use of a non-BZD ASM with high estimated effectiveness, like phenobarbital, rather than one with low estimated effectiveness, like phenytoin/fosphenytoin, would result in a reduction in ICU admissions from 9.1 (7.3-11.2) to 3.9 (2.6-5.5) per 100 cases and associated cost reduction of $1261 ($445-$2223) per pediatric patient and $319 ($-93-$806) per adult patient. Sensitivity analyses showed that relatively minor improvements in effectiveness may lead to substantial reductions in downstream hospital admissions, ICU admissions, and costs. SIGNIFICANCE Decreasing decisional uncertainty and using the most effective treatments for SE may substantially decrease hospital admissions, ICU admissions, and costs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iván Sánchez Fernández
- Division of Epilepsy and Clinical Neurophysiology, Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Department of Child Neurology, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Universidad de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marina Gaínza-Lein
- Division of Epilepsy and Clinical Neurophysiology, Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Instituto de Pediatría, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile.,Servicio de Neuropsiquiatría Infantil. Hospital Clínico San Borja Arriarán, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Cristina Barcia Aguilar
- Division of Epilepsy and Clinical Neurophysiology, Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Department of Child Neurology, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Marta Amengual-Gual
- Division of Epilepsy and Clinical Neurophysiology, Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Pediatric Neurology Unit, Department of Pediatrics, Hospital Universitari Son Espases, Universitat de les Illes Balears, Palma, Spain
| | - Tobias Loddenkemper
- Division of Epilepsy and Clinical Neurophysiology, Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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24
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Minicucci F, Ferlisi M, Brigo F, Mecarelli O, Meletti S, Aguglia U, Michelucci R, Mastrangelo M, Specchio N, Sartori S, Tinuper P. Management of status epilepticus in adults. Position paper of the Italian League against Epilepsy. Epilepsy Behav 2020; 102:106675. [PMID: 31766004 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2019.106675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2019] [Revised: 09/30/2019] [Accepted: 10/30/2019] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Since the publication of the Italian League Against Epilepsy guidelines for the treatment of status epilepticus in 2006, advances in the field have ushered in improvements in the therapeutic arsenal. The present position paper provides neurologists, epileptologists, neurointensive care specialists, and emergency physicians with updated recommendations for the treatment of adult patients with status epilepticus. The aim is to standardize treatment recommendations in the care of this patient population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Minicucci
- Epilepsy Center, Unit of Neurophysiology, Neurological Department, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy.
| | - Monica Ferlisi
- Division of Neurology A, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata, Verona, Italy.
| | - Francesco Brigo
- Division of Neurology, "Franz Tappeiner" Hospital, Merano, Italy; Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Science, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Oriano Mecarelli
- Department of Human Neuroscience, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.
| | - Stefano Meletti
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, Center for Neurosciences and Neurotechnology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy; Neurology Unit, OCB Hospital, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Modena, Modena, Italy.
| | - Umberto Aguglia
- Epilepsy Center, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences Regional, Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Roberto Michelucci
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Unit of Neurology, Bellaria Hospital, Bologna, Italy.
| | - Massimo Mastrangelo
- Pediatric Neurology Unit, "V. Buzzi" Children's Hospital, Pediatrics Department, ASST Fatebenefratelli Sacco, Milan, Italy.
| | - Nicola Specchio
- Department of Neuroscience, IRCCS Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, Rome, Italy.
| | - Stefano Sartori
- Paediatric Neurology and Neurophysiology Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, University Hospital of Padua, Padua, Italy.
| | - Paolo Tinuper
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche, Bellaria Hospital, Bologna, Italy; Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Italy.
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25
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The treatment of epilepsy in children is highly individualized at each and every major step in the management. This review examines various factors that modify the treatment from the point of initiation of therapy to the decision to stop an antiepileptic drug (AED). RECENT FINDINGS AED therapy leads to seizure freedom in about 70% of all children with epilepsy. AED initiation could be delayed until a second seizure in most children and may be avoided altogether in many children with self-limited childhood focal epilepsies. Three key factors influence the choice of AED: seizure type(s), efficacy of the drug for the seizure type, and the side effect profile of the drug(s). For epileptic spasms, steroids and vigabatrin are the most effective treatment options. For absence seizures, ethosuximide and valproic acid are superior to lamotrigine. For focal seizures, many newer AEDs have favorable side effect profiles with efficacy comparable to older-generation drugs. For generalized epilepsies, valproic acid remains the most effective drug for a broad range of seizure types. Genetic and metabolic etiologies may guide unique treatment choices in some children. After 2 years or more of seizure freedom, if the recurrence risk after AED withdrawal is acceptable, slow weaning of AEDs should be done over the span of 6 weeks or longer. After discontinuation, about 70% of patients remain seizure free, and of those with recurrence, the majority achieve seizure control with restarting an AED. When treatment with two or more AEDs fails, other treatment opportunities for drug-resistant epilepsy, including epilepsy surgery, vagal nerve stimulation, and dietary therapies should be considered. SUMMARY Carefully selected medical therapy guided by seizure type and AED characteristics is effective in more than two-thirds of children with epilepsy.
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Seizure cluster: Definition, prevalence, consequences, and management. Seizure 2019; 68:9-15. [DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2018.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2018] [Revised: 05/18/2018] [Accepted: 05/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
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Abstract
Drug delivery via the rectum is a useful alternative route of administration to the oral route for patients who cannot swallow. Traditional rectal dosage forms have been historically used for localized treatments including delivery of laxatives, treatment of hemorrhoids and for delivery of antipyretics. However, the recent trend is showing an increase in the development of novel rectal delivery systems to deliver drug directly into the systemic circulation by taking advantage of porto-systemic shunting. The present review is based on research studies carried out between years 1969-2017. Data for this review have been derived from keyword searches using Scopus and Medline databases. Novel rectal drug delivery systems including hollow-type suppositories, thermo-responsive and muco-adhesive liquid suppositories, and nanoparticulate systems incorporated into an appropriate vehicle have offered more control over delivery of drug molecules for local or systemic actions. In addition, various methods for in vitro-in vivo evaluation of rectal drug delivery systems are covered which is as important as the formulation, and must be carried out using appropriate methodology. Continuous research and development in this field of drug delivery may unleash the hidden potential of the rectal drug delivery systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trusha J Purohit
- a School of Pharmacy , The University of Auckland , Auckland , New Zealand
| | - Sara M Hanning
- a School of Pharmacy , The University of Auckland , Auckland , New Zealand
| | - Zimei Wu
- a School of Pharmacy , The University of Auckland , Auckland , New Zealand
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Nunley S, Glynn P, Rust S, Vidaurre J, Albert DVF, Patel AD. Healthcare Utilization Characteristics for Intranasal Midazolam Versus Rectal Diazepam. J Child Neurol 2018; 33:158-163. [PMID: 29233042 DOI: 10.1177/0883073817744696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
To investigate connections between patient demographics, health care utilization, prescription use, and refills for patients using intranasal midazolam, per rectum diazepam, or both. A retrospective cohort contained patients with epilepsy prescribed intranasal midazolam, per rectum diazepam, or both. We analyzed number of emergency department visits, ambulance services, urgent care visits, and unplanned hospitalizations. A total of 5458 patients were identified. Patients on intranasal midazolam had on average 1.53 fewer emergency department visits (95% confidence interval 1.16-1.89, P < .0001), 0.29 fewer uses of ambulance services (95% confidence interval 0.17-0.41, P < .0001), and 0.60 fewer urgent care visits (95% confidence interval 0.36-0.83, P < .0001) compared to patients in the per rectum diazepam group. Patients with commercial insurance were more likely to have intranasal midazolam prescription (odds ratio = 1.73, 95% confidence interval 1.42-2.11, P < .0001). The results substantiate the cost-effective benefits of prescribing intranasal midazolam compared to per rectum diazepam because several aspects of health care utilization were decreased in those using intranasal midazolam.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunjay Nunley
- 1 Division of Neurology, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Peter Glynn
- 1 Division of Neurology, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Steve Rust
- 2 Research Information Solutions & Innovation, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Jorge Vidaurre
- 1 Division of Neurology, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Dara V F Albert
- 1 Division of Neurology, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Anup D Patel
- 1 Division of Neurology, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA
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Less Effective and More Expensive: Is it Time to Move on from Rectal Diazepam? Epilepsy Curr 2018; 18:27-28. [DOI: 10.5698/1535-7597.18.1.27] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
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McTague A, Martland T, Appleton R. Drug management for acute tonic-clonic convulsions including convulsive status epilepticus in children. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2018; 1:CD001905. [PMID: 29320603 PMCID: PMC6491279 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd001905.pub3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tonic-clonic convulsions and convulsive status epilepticus (currently defined as a tonic-clonic convulsion lasting at least 30 minutes) are medical emergencies and require urgent and appropriate anticonvulsant treatment. International consensus is that an anticonvulsant drug should be administered for any tonic-clonic convulsion that has been continuing for at least five minutes. Benzodiazepines (diazepam, lorazepam, midazolam) are traditionally regarded as first-line drugs and phenobarbital, phenytoin and paraldehyde as second-line drugs. This is an update of a Cochrane Review first published in 2002 and updated in 2008. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of anticonvulsant drugs used to treat any acute tonic-clonic convulsion of any duration, including established convulsive (tonic-clonic) status epilepticus in children who present to a hospital or emergency medical department. SEARCH METHODS For the latest update we searched the Cochrane Epilepsy Group's Specialised Register (23 May 2017), the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) via the Cochrane Register of Studies Online (CRSO, 23 May 2017), MEDLINE (Ovid, 1946 to 23 May 2017), ClinicalTrials.gov (23 May 2017), and the WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP, 23 May 2017). SELECTION CRITERIA Randomised and quasi-randomised trials comparing any anticonvulsant drugs used for the treatment of an acute tonic-clonic convulsion including convulsive status epilepticus in children. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors independently assessed trials for inclusion and extracted data. We contacted study authors for additional information. MAIN RESULTS The review includes 18 randomised trials involving 2199 participants, and a range of drug treatment options, doses and routes of administration (rectal, buccal, nasal, intramuscular and intravenous). The studies vary by design, setting and population, both in terms of their ages and also in their clinical situation. We have made many comparisons of drugs and of routes of administration of drugs in this review; our key findings are as follows:(1) This review provides only low- to very low-quality evidence comparing buccal midazolam with rectal diazepam for the treatment of acute tonic-clonic convulsions (risk ratio (RR) for seizure cessation 1.25, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.13 to 1.38; 4 trials; 690 children). However, there is uncertainty about the effect and therefore insufficient evidence to support its use. There were no included studies which compare intranasal and buccal midazolam.(2) Buccal and intranasal anticonvulsants were shown to lead to similar rates of seizure cessation as intravenous anticonvulsants, e.g. intranasal lorazepam appears to be as effective as intravenous lorazepam (RR 0.96, 95% CI 0.82 to 1.13; 1 trial; 141 children; high-quality evidence) and intranasal midazolam was equivalent to intravenous diazepam (RR 0.98, 95% CI 0.91 to 1.06; 2 trials; 122 children; moderate-quality evidence).(3) Intramuscular midazolam also showed a similar rate of seizure cessation to intravenous diazepam (RR 0.97, 95% CI 0.87 to 1.09; 2 trials; 105 children; low-quality evidence).(4) For intravenous routes of administration, lorazepam appears to be as effective as diazepam in stopping acute tonic clonic convulsions: RR 1.04, 95% CI 0.94 to 1.16; 3 trials; 414 children; low-quality evidence. Furthermore, we found no statistically significant or clinically important differences between intravenous midazolam and diazepam (RR for seizure cessation 1.08, 95% CI 0.97 to 1.21; 1 trial; 80 children; moderate-quality evidence) or intravenous midazolam and lorazepam (RR for seizure cessation 0.98, 95% CI 0.91 to 1.04; 1 trial; 80 children; moderate-quality evidence). In general, intravenously-administered anticonvulsants led to more rapid seizure cessation but this was usually compromised by the time taken to establish intravenous access.(5) There is limited evidence from a single trial to suggest that intranasal lorazepam may be more effective than intramuscular paraldehyde in stopping acute tonic-clonic convulsions (RR 1.22, 95% CI 0.99 to 1.52; 160 children; moderate-quality evidence).(6) Adverse side effects were observed and reported very infrequently in the included studies. Respiratory depression was the most common and most clinically relevant side effect and, where reported, the frequency of this adverse event was observed in 0% to up to 18% of children. None of the studies individually demonstrated any difference in the rates of respiratory depression between the different anticonvulsants or their different routes of administration; but when pooled, three studies (439 children) provided moderate-quality evidence that lorazepam was significantly associated with fewer occurrences of respiratory depression than diazepam (RR 0.72, 95% CI 0.55 to 0.93).Much of the evidence provided in this review is of mostly moderate to high quality. However, the quality of the evidence provided for some important outcomes is low to very low, particularly for comparisons of non-intravenous routes of drug administration. Low- to very low-quality evidence was provided where limited data and imprecise results were available for analysis, methodological inadequacies were present in some studies which may have introduced bias into the results, study settings were not applicable to wider clinical practice, and where inconsistency was present in some pooled analyses. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS We have not identified any new high-quality evidence on the efficacy or safety of an anticonvulsant in stopping an acute tonic-clonic convulsion that would inform clinical practice. There appears to be a very low risk of adverse events, specifically respiratory depression. Intravenous lorazepam and diazepam appear to be associated with similar rates of seizure cessation and respiratory depression. Although intravenous lorazepam and intravenous diazepam lead to more rapid seizure cessation, the time taken to obtain intravenous access may undermine this effect. In the absence of intravenous access, buccal midazolam or rectal diazepam are therefore acceptable first-line anticonvulsants for the treatment of an acute tonic-clonic convulsion that has lasted at least five minutes. There is no evidence provided by this review to support the use of intranasal midazolam or lorazepam as alternatives to buccal midazolam or rectal diazepam.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy McTague
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child HealthMolecular Neurosciences, Developmental Neurosciences ProgrammeLondonUK
| | - Timothy Martland
- Royal Manchester Children's HospitalDepartment of NeurologyHospital RoadPendleburyManchesterUKM27 4HA
| | - Richard Appleton
- Alder Hey Children's HospitalThe Roald Dahl EEG UnitEaton RoadLiverpoolMerseysideUKL12 2AP
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Sánchez Fernández I, Gaínza-Lein M, Loddenkemper T. Nonintravenous rescue medications for pediatric status epilepticus: A cost-effectiveness analysis. Epilepsia 2017. [DOI: 10.1111/epi.13812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Iván Sánchez Fernández
- Division of Epilepsy and Clinical Neurophysiology; Department of Neurology; Boston Children's Hospital; Harvard Medical School; Boston Massachusetts U.S.A
- Department of Child Neurology; Hospital Sant Joan de Déu; Universidad de Barcelona; Barcelona Spain
| | - Marina Gaínza-Lein
- Division of Epilepsy and Clinical Neurophysiology; Department of Neurology; Boston Children's Hospital; Harvard Medical School; Boston Massachusetts U.S.A
- Universidad Austral de Chile; Valdivia Chile
| | - Tobias Loddenkemper
- Division of Epilepsy and Clinical Neurophysiology; Department of Neurology; Boston Children's Hospital; Harvard Medical School; Boston Massachusetts U.S.A
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Komaragiri A, Detyniecki K, Hirsch LJ. Seizure clusters: A common, understudied and undertreated phenomenon in refractory epilepsy. Epilepsy Behav 2016; 59:83-6. [PMID: 27116535 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2016.02.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2016] [Revised: 02/17/2016] [Accepted: 02/21/2016] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Epilepsy is widely prevalent globally and has emerged as a well-studied neurological condition in the recent past. Seizure clusters, a type of seizures, and several aspects pertaining to the etiopathogenesis and management of clusters are yet to be elucidated. This review is an attempt to recapitulate the current understanding of seizure clusters based on the research that has been performed on seizure clusters. This article will provide a comprehensive review of various aspects of clusters, and discusses definitions, prevalence, risk factors, impact on quality of life, approved treatment modalities, and recent advances in management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arpitha Komaragiri
- Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520, USA.
| | - Kamil Detyniecki
- Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Lawrence J Hirsch
- Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
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Buelow JM, Shafer P, Shinnar R, Austin J, Dewar S, Long L, O'Hara K, Santilli N. Perspectives on seizure clusters: Gaps in lexicon, awareness, and treatment. Epilepsy Behav 2016; 57:16-22. [PMID: 26906403 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2016.01.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2015] [Revised: 01/22/2016] [Accepted: 01/23/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Seizure clusters in epilepsy can result in serious outcomes such as missed work or school, postictal psychosis, emergency room visits, or hospitalizations, and yet they are often not included in discussions between health-care professionals (HCPs) and their patients. The purpose of this paper was to describe and compare consumer (patient and caregivers) and professional understanding of seizure clusters and to describe how consumers and HCPs communicate regarding seizure clusters. We reviewed social media discussion sites to explore consumers' understanding of seizure clusters. We analyzed professional (medical) literature to explore the HCPs' understanding of seizure clusters. Major themes were revealed in one or both groups, including: communication about diagnosis; frequency, duration, and time frame; seizure type and pattern; severity; and self-management. When comparing discussions of professionals and consumers, both consumers and clinicians discussed the definition of seizure clusters. Discussions of HCPs were understandably clinically focused, and consumer discussions reflected the experience of seizure clusters; however, both groups struggled with a common lexicon. Seizure cluster events remain a problem associated with serious outcomes. Herein, we outline the lack of a common understanding and recommend the development of a common lexicon to improve communication regarding seizure clusters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janice M Buelow
- Epilepsy Foundation of America, Landover, MD, United States.
| | - Patricia Shafer
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Ruth Shinnar
- Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY, United States
| | - Joan Austin
- Indiana University School of Nursing, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Sandra Dewar
- UCLA Seizure Disorder Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Lucretia Long
- The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Kathryn O'Hara
- Virginia Commonwealth University Children's Pavilion, Richmond, VA, United States
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Glauser T, Shinnar S, Gloss D, Alldredge B, Arya R, Bainbridge J, Bare M, Bleck T, Dodson WE, Garrity L, Jagoda A, Lowenstein D, Pellock J, Riviello J, Sloan E, Treiman DM. Evidence-Based Guideline: Treatment of Convulsive Status Epilepticus in Children and Adults: Report of the Guideline Committee of the American Epilepsy Society. Epilepsy Curr 2016; 16:48-61. [PMID: 26900382 PMCID: PMC4749120 DOI: 10.5698/1535-7597-16.1.48] [Citation(s) in RCA: 673] [Impact Index Per Article: 84.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT The optimal pharmacologic treatment for early convulsive status epilepticus is unclear. OBJECTIVE To analyze efficacy, tolerability and safety data for anticonvulsant treatment of children and adults with convulsive status epilepticus and use this analysis to develop an evidence-based treatment algorithm. DATA SOURCES Structured literature review using MEDLINE, Embase, Current Contents, and Cochrane library supplemented with article reference lists. STUDY SELECTION Randomized controlled trials of anticonvulsant treatment for seizures lasting longer than 5 minutes. DATA EXTRACTION Individual studies were rated using predefined criteria and these results were used to form recommendations, conclusions, and an evidence-based treatment algorithm. RESULTS A total of 38 randomized controlled trials were identified, rated and contributed to the assessment. Only four trials were considered to have class I evidence of efficacy. Two studies were rated as class II and the remaining 32 were judged to have class III evidence. In adults with convulsive status epilepticus, intramuscular midazolam, intravenous lorazepam, intravenous diazepam and intravenous phenobarbital are established as efficacious as initial therapy (Level A). Intramuscular midazolam has superior effectiveness compared to intravenous lorazepam in adults with convulsive status epilepticus without established intravenous access (Level A). In children, intravenous lorazepam and intravenous diazepam are established as efficacious at stopping seizures lasting at least 5 minutes (Level A) while rectal diazepam, intramuscular midazolam, intranasal midazolam, and buccal midazolam are probably effective (Level B). No significant difference in effectiveness has been demonstrated between intravenous lorazepam and intravenous diazepam in adults or children with convulsive status epilepticus (Level A). Respiratory and cardiac symptoms are the most commonly encountered treatment-emergent adverse events associated with intravenous anticonvulsant drug administration in adults with convulsive status epilepticus (Level A). The rate of respiratory depression in patients with convulsive status epilepticus treated with benzodiazepines is lower than in patients with convulsive status epilepticus treated with placebo indicating that respiratory problems are an important consequence of untreated convulsive status epilepticus (Level A). When both are available, fosphenytoin is preferred over phenytoin based on tolerability but phenytoin is an acceptable alternative (Level A). In adults, compared to the first therapy, the second therapy is less effective while the third therapy is substantially less effective (Level A). In children, the second therapy appears less effective and there are no data about third therapy efficacy (Level C). The evidence was synthesized into a treatment algorithm. CONCLUSIONS Despite the paucity of well-designed randomized controlled trials, practical conclusions and an integrated treatment algorithm for the treatment of convulsive status epilepticus across the age spectrum (infants through adults) can be constructed. Multicenter, multinational efforts are needed to design, conduct and analyze additional randomized controlled trials that can answer the many outstanding clinically relevant questions identified in this guideline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tracy Glauser
- Division of Neurology, Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center and University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH
| | - Shlomo Shinnar
- Departments of Neurology, Pediatrics, and Epidemiology and Population Health, and the Comprehensive Epilepsy Management Center, Montefiore Medical Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY
| | | | - Brian Alldredge
- School of Pharmacy, University of California, San Francisco, CA
| | - Ravindra Arya
- Division of Neurology, Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center and University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH
| | - Jacquelyn Bainbridge
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, University of Colorado, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Aurora, CO
| | - Mary Bare
- Division of Neurology, Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center and University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH
| | - Thomas Bleck
- Departments of Neurological Sciences, Neurosurgery, Medicine, and Anesthesiology, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL
| | - W. Edwin Dodson
- Departments of Neurology and Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
| | - Lisa Garrity
- Division of Pharmacy, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH
| | - Andy Jagoda
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Mount Sinai Hospital, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, NY
| | - Daniel Lowenstein
- Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco, CA
| | - John Pellock
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA
| | | | - Edward Sloan
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - David M. Treiman
- Division of Neurology, Barrow Neurological Institute, Phoenix, AZ
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Abstract
Status epilepticus (SE) represents the most severe form of epilepsy. It is one of the most common neurologic emergencies, with an incidence of up to 61 per 100,000 per year and an estimated mortality of 20 %. Clinically, tonic-clonic convulsive SE is divided into four subsequent stages: early, established, refractory, and super-refractory. Pharmacotherapy of status epilepticus, especially of its later stages, represents an "evidence-free zone," due to a lack of high-quality, controlled trials to inform clinical decisions. This comprehensive narrative review focuses on the pharmacotherapy of SE, presented according to the four-staged approach outlined above, and providing pharmacological properties and efficacy/safety data for each antiepileptic drug according to the strength of scientific evidence from the available literature. Data sources included MEDLINE and back-tracking of references in pertinent studies. Intravenous lorazepam or intramuscular midazolam effectively control early SE in approximately 63-73 % of patients. Despite a suboptimal safety profile, intravenous phenytoin or phenobarbital are widely used treatments for established SE; alternatives include valproate, levetiracetam, and lacosamide. Anesthetics are widely used in refractory and super-refractory SE, despite the current lack of trials in this field. Data on alternative treatments in the later stages are limited. Valproate and levetiracetam represent safe and effective alternatives to phenobarbital and phenytoin for treatment of established SE persisting despite first-line treatment with benzodiazepines. To date there are no class I data to support recommendations for most antiepileptic drugs for established, refractory, and super-refractory SE. Limiting the methodologic heterogeneity across studies is required and high-class randomized, controlled trials to inform clinicians about the best treatment in established and refractory status are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eugen Trinka
- Department of Neurology, Christian Doppler Klinik, Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, Ignaz Harrerstrasse 79, 5020, Salzburg, Austria,
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Quick treatment with the most appropriate benzodiazepine formulation is vital when treating acute repetitive seizures in the outpatient setting. DRUGS & THERAPY PERSPECTIVES 2015. [DOI: 10.1007/s40267-015-0218-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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McKee HR, Abou-Khalil B. Outpatient pharmacotherapy and modes of administration for acute repetitive and prolonged seizures. CNS Drugs 2015; 29:55-70. [PMID: 25583219 DOI: 10.1007/s40263-014-0219-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Acute repetitive seizures (ARS) are a serious epilepsy phenomenon, generally described as closely grouped seizures over minutes to 2 days, representing an increase in seizure frequency compared with baseline. In some instances, ARS may not stop without treatment, and evolution into status epilepticus is a significant concern. Additionally, neuronal injury may occur after even brief repeated seizures. Given the substantial risks that may be involved with ARS, it is crucial to develop appropriate protocols for identification and management of this seizure phenomenon. This article focuses on pharmacotherapy and, in particular, different modes of administering medication for ARS in the outpatient setting. Our aim was to present a review of data from non-randomized and randomized, controlled trials to evaluate the efficacy, safety and tolerability of out-of-hospital ARS treatments. Several of the studies included patients with ARS, as well as patients with prolonged seizures. Prolonged seizures, or seizures lasting greater than 5 min, have similar risks and treatment options to those of ARS; therefore, this discussion also includes treatment trials and recommendations for prolonged seizures. All trials used benzodiazepines, a class of drugs that are ideal for the ARS and prolonged seizure populations because of their rapid onset of action and minimal adverse effects. Rectal diazepam is currently the only formulation approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for out-of-hospital treatment. Oral benzodiazepines are appropriate only for mild ARS. Intramuscular diazepam autoinjection has shown success against ARS in clinical trials. Intranasal midazolam and diazepam are in testing. Other treatments have also been explored--specifically, buccal midazolam (approved in the European Union), sublingual lorazepam and intranasal lorazepam.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather Ravvin McKee
- Department of Neurology, University of Cincinnati, 222 Piedmont Avenue, Cincinnati, OH, 45219, USA,
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Uso benzodiacepinas en crisis prolongadas y estado epiléptico en la comunidad. An Pediatr (Barc) 2014; 81:400.e1-6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anpedi.2014.03.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2014] [Revised: 03/19/2014] [Accepted: 03/25/2014] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
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İşgüder R, Güzel O, Ağın H, Yılmaz Ü, Akarcan SE, Celik T, Ünalp A. Efficacy and safety of IV levetiracetam in children with acute repetitive seizures. Pediatr Neurol 2014; 51:688-95. [PMID: 25172096 DOI: 10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2014.07.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2014] [Revised: 07/11/2014] [Accepted: 07/13/2014] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Levetiracetam has been proven to be effective in both partial and generalized seizures in children. However, few studies have reported its efficacy in the treatment of acute repetitive seizures. We aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of levetiracetam in children with acute repetitive seizures. METHODS The medical records of children from the age of 1 month-18 years who received levetiracetam because of acute repetitive seizures in the pediatric intensive care unit between 2010 and 2013 were reviewed retrospectively. RESULTS Of the 133 patients, levetiracetam terminated seizures in 104 (78.2%). Side effects such as agitation and aggression were observed in three patients (2.2%). The likelihood of treatment failure was increased by four times by younger age at seizure onset; by six times in the individuals with neurological abnormalities; and by 22 times in the patients with West syndrome. The patients who used levetiracetam as the first treatment option for acute repetitive seizures had a longer duration of epilepsy, a higher rate of neurological abnormality, and a higher proportion of medically resistant epilepsy compared with the individuals who used levetiracetam as an add-on treatment to the other intravenous antiepileptic drugs. However, no differences were detected between these two groups in terms of treatment response. CONCLUSIONS Intravenous levetiracetam appears to be effective and safe in the treatment of acute repetitive seizures. Randomized clinical trials are needed to determine whether intravenous levetiracetam may replace other antiepileptic drugs as the first-line therapy in the management of acute repetitive seizures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rana İşgüder
- Department of Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, Dr. Behçet Uz Children's Hospital, Izmir, Turkey.
| | - Orkide Güzel
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Dr. Behçet Uz Children's Hospital, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Hasan Ağın
- Department of Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, Dr. Behçet Uz Children's Hospital, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Ünsal Yılmaz
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Dr. Behçet Uz Children's Hospital, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Sanem Eren Akarcan
- Department of Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, Dr. Behçet Uz Children's Hospital, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Tanju Celik
- Department of Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, Dr. Behçet Uz Children's Hospital, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Aycan Ünalp
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Dr. Behçet Uz Children's Hospital, Izmir, Turkey
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Sperling MR, Haas KF, Krauss G, Seif Eddeine H, Henney HR, Rabinowicz AL, Bream G, Squillacote D, Carrazana EJ. Dosing feasibility and tolerability of intranasal diazepam in adults with epilepsy. Epilepsia 2014; 55:1544-50. [PMID: 25154625 DOI: 10.1111/epi.12755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/18/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the feasibility of administering a diazepam nasal spray formulation (diazepam-NS) to adults with epilepsy during a generalized tonic-clonic seizure or in the postictal period following a tonic-clonic or other seizure type, to assess pharmacokinetics and to assess tolerability. METHODS An open-label study was conducted in patients admitted to the epilepsy monitoring unit. Eligible patients received a single dose of diazepam-NS approximating 0.2 mg/kg. Plasma diazepam concentrations were measured serially up to 12 h postdose, and maximum observed plasma concentration (Cmax ); time to maximum concentration (Tmax ); and the area under the plasma concentration-time curve for time zero to last sampling time (AUC0-12 ) were estimated and dose-normalized. Pharmacodynamic assessments included Kaplan-Meier analysis to determine the time-to-next seizure. Safety and tolerability were assessed. RESULTS Of the 78 patients who consented, 30 had treatment and pharmacokinetic data. Ten patients were treated during a convulsive tonic-clonic seizure, seven within 5 min following the last clonic jerk, and 13 in the postictal period ≥ 5 min after a tonic-clonic or following other seizure-types. Diazepam median Tmax was 45 min. Dose-normalized mean Cmax and AUC0-12 values of diazepam were comparable among patients regardless of the timing of diazepam-NS administration in relation to seizure. Of those treated, 65% were seizure-free during the 12-h observation period and 35% had post-dose seizures. Treatment was well tolerated, with no unexpected safety findings: 74% had mild and 25% had moderate adverse events. Nasopharyngeal signs were resolved by 12 h postdose. SIGNIFICANCE Diazepam can be delivered in effective therapeutic concentrations by a nasal spray device during the convulsive phase of tonic-clonic seizures or in the postictal periods following tonic-clonic or other seizure types.
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Abou-Khalil B, Wheless J, Rogin J, Wolter KD, Pixton GC, Shukla RB, Sherman NA, Sommerville K, Goli V, Roland CL. A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial of a diazepam auto-injector administered by caregivers to patients with epilepsy who require intermittent intervention for acute repetitive seizures. Epilepsia 2013; 54:1968-76. [DOI: 10.1111/epi.12373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/08/2013] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - James Wheless
- University of Tennessee Health Science Center and LeBonheur Children's Hospital; Memphis Tennessee U.S.A
| | - Joanne Rogin
- Midwest Center for Seizure Disorders; Minneapolis Clinic of Neurology; Golden Valley Minnesota U.S.A
| | | | | | | | | | - Kenneth Sommerville
- Pfizer, Inc.; Cary North Carolina U.S.A
- Duke University Medical Center; Cary North Carolina U.S.A
| | - Veeraindar Goli
- Pfizer, Inc.; Cary North Carolina U.S.A
- Duke University Medical Center; Cary North Carolina U.S.A
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Rosemergy I, Bergin P, Jones P, Walker E. Seizure management at Auckland City Hospital Emergency Department between July and December 2009: time for a change? Intern Med J 2012; 42:1023-9. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1445-5994.2012.02818.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Lamson MJ, Sitki-Green D, Wannarka GL, Mesa M, Andrews P, Pellock J. Pharmacokinetics of Diazepam Administered Intramuscularly by Autoinjector versus Rectal Gel in Healthy Subjects. Clin Drug Investig 2011; 31:585-597. [DOI: 10.2165/11590250-000000000-00000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
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Shah AM, Vashi A, Jagoda A. Review article: Convulsive and non-convulsive status epilepticus: an emergency medicine perspective. Emerg Med Australas 2011; 21:352-66. [PMID: 19840084 DOI: 10.1111/j.1742-6723.2009.01212.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Status epilepticus (SE) is divided into convulsive and non-convulsive types; both are associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Although convulsive SE is easily recognized, non-convulsive SE remains an elusive diagnosis as physical signs are varied and subtle. Successful management depends on a comprehensive approach that involves diagnostic testing and pharmacological interventions while ensuring cerebral oxygenation and perfusion at all times. There are a limited number of well-designed studies to support the development of evidence-based recommendations for the management of SE, especially for the management of non-convulsive status. Benzodiazepines, specifically lorazepam, continue to be the most commonly recommended first-line therapy; best treatment for refractory status cases depends on resources available and must be tailored to the individual institution. In order to facilitate care, it is recommended that each institution develop a management protocol for these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amish M Shah
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, ne Gustave Levy Place Box1490, New York, NY 10128, USA.
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Lux AL. Treatment of febrile seizures: historical perspective, current opinions, and potential future directions. Brain Dev 2010; 32:42-50. [PMID: 19854599 DOI: 10.1016/j.braindev.2009.09.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2008] [Revised: 03/09/2009] [Accepted: 09/09/2009] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Although most febrile seizures do no harm and two-thirds of initial cases have no witnessed recurrence, the seizures cause much family anxiety, and are sometimes prolonged. In rare cases they are the first evidence of important epilepsy syndromes or are implicated in the development of epilepsy with mesial temporal sclerosis in later life. There have been trials of prophylactic treatment with antiepileptic drugs including carbamazepine, diazepam, phenobarbital, phenytoin, and sodium valproate. Several strategies have been employed with these drugs, including continuous secondary prophylaxis, intermittent secondary prophylaxis in response to later episodes of fever, and rescue medication early in the course of further seizures. Another treatment strategy has been using one or more antipyretic agents in early response to fever using agents such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen. Over the years, researchers have identified a variety of clinical, genetic, and environmental risk factors for more severe or prolonged febrile seizures and higher risk of recurrence. This review evaluates the rationale for secondary prophylaxis of febrile seizures, the potential effectiveness of such treatment, and whether it can be recommended as a general approach to treating febrile seizures or as an approach to be used in groups identified to be at increased risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew L Lux
- Department of Paediatric Neurology, Bristol Royal Hospital for Children, UBHT Education Centre, Upper Maudlin Street, Bristol BS2 8AE, UK.
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Modur PN, Milteer WE, Zhang S. Sequential intrarectal diazepam and intravenous levetiracetam in treating acute repetitive and prolonged seizures. Epilepsia 2009; 51:1078-82. [PMID: 19845733 DOI: 10.1111/j.1528-1167.2009.02385.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
In this retrospective study of institutionalized patients with mental retardation, we present the efficacy and safety of sequential treatment with intrarectal diazepam (IRD) gel (Diastat) and intravenous levetiracetam (IVL) in comparison with either treatment alone for acute repetitive or prolonged seizures (ARPS). We defined ARPS as >or=3 seizures of any type within 1 h or a single seizure of any type lasting >or=3 min. Eighty-eight ARPS episodes were treated in 25 patients (14 female, age 21-72 years), with mainly symptomatic generalized epilepsy. There were no adverse events directly attributable to the administration of IRD or IVL. Seizure recurrence within 4 h of treatment, the primary outcome measure, was significantly lower after combined sequential IRD + IVL treatment (3 of 36) compared to IRD alone (6 of 24, p = 0.048) or IVL alone (10 of 28, p = 0.039). There was no statistically significant difference between the individual IRD and IVL treatments (p = 0.604). The estimated odds ratio (OR) indicated that the risk of seizure recurrence was higher after IRD or IVL monotherapy compared to combined IRD + IVL treatment. Subsequent emergency room (ER) transfers following seizure recurrence were least likely after IVL treatment (10%) compared to combined IRD + IVL (67%) or IRD (83%) treatment. These findings suggest that although IRD or IVL monotherapy is efficacious, the combination is superior in controlling ARPS in this special group of institutionalized patients. In addition, we speculate that a more reliable onset of action after IVL treatment results in rapid seizure control and fewer ER transfers, despite seizure recurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pradeep N Modur
- Department of Neurology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390, USA.
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Ivaturi VD, Riss JR, Kriel RL, Siegel RA, Cloyd JC. Bioavailability and tolerability of intranasal diazepam in healthy adult volunteers. Epilepsy Res 2009; 84:120-6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2009.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2008] [Revised: 12/02/2008] [Accepted: 01/11/2009] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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