New Treatment for People with Epilepsy
- Filed under: Health News
- Date: Oct 21,2008
Vimpat (lacosamide), a new treatment for adults with partial onset epilepsy, and which is to be used as an add-on to patients’ current therapy, has been launched in the UK.
Epilepsy currently affects more than 450,000 people in the UK; one person in every 131, and despite the fact that there are presently 18 different anti-epileptic drugs available, it is estimated that around a third of people with epilepsy still experience seizures despite treatment with these medications. Epilepsy can have a huge impact on the work, social and personal lives of those with the illness, as well as their family and friends.
“For those who are still experiencing seizures, despite trying many treatments, this launch is very positive news. Epilepsy can have a major impact, not just on those with the condition but on their family and friends too. Each seizure has the very real potential to disrupt someone’s day-to-day life, including their ability to learn, work and socialise. We welcome this new treatment, giving people with epilepsy another valuable option,” says Simon Wigglesworth, Epilepsy Action.
Side effects are common with add-on anti-epilepsy drugs. In clinical trials, Lacosamide when added to a broad range of the most commonly used anti-epileptic drugs, showed no clinically relevant drug-to-drug interactions. It can be given as a tablet, a syrup or intravenously.
“The arrival of a new treatment option which has the potential to help people better control their condition is extremely positive. Understandably, my patients are often extremely anxious about the prospect of living with seizures. I look forward to being able to integrate this new drug into my practice; my aim is always to offer my patients the best I can to help manage their epilepsy,” said Ley Sander, Professor of Neurology and Clinical Epilepsy at the UCL Institute of Neurology, London.
Summary of Product Characteristics
http://emc.medicines.org.uk/emc/assets/c/html/DisplayDoc.asp?DocumentID=21158
References
1. National Society for Epilepsy. Epilepsy: Information on epileptic seizures. Available http://www.epilepsynse.org.uk/PAGES/whatsnew/pr/ep_facts.cfm [Accessed 15 August 2008]
2. Shorvan, S. Handbook of Epilepsy Treatment. Second Edition. Blackwell Publishing 2005
3. VIMPAT(R) Summary of Product Characteristics
Source: UCB
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