When Drugs Do Not Work: Alternatives to Antiseizure Medications

AbstractPurpose of ReviewDespite the increase in the number of novel antiseizure medications over the past 20  years, approximately one-third of patients will not have adequate seizure control on medications. For these patients, additional options need to be considered, including dietary, device, and surgical treatments. In addition, many complementary therapies can be considered as adjunctive treatment, w ith the intent of improving quality of life for persons with epilepsy and potentially allowing for improvement in seizure control.Recent FindingsThis review outlines established and developing treatments for drug-resistant epilepsy. Surgical treatments, including resective surgery and vagus nerve stimulation, have been routine care for several decades. In the last several years, new neurostimulation options have been approved (responsive neurostimulation and deep brain stimulation) or are under development (continuous subthreshold cortical stimulation). For patients with lesion or well-defined seizure-onset zones, less invasive options including laser ablation and ultrasound therapy provide the potential for faster recovery times and less morbidity. Not all therapies are in the pharmacological or surgical arenas. This review also explores the evidence for complementary treatments, including relaxation and meditation techniques, and art and music therapy.SummaryDespite the range of antiseizure medications available, they still provide inadequate for a large number of patien...

Source: Current Neurology and Neuroscience Reports - July 8, 2020 Category: Neuroscience Source Type: research