Anti-epileptic non-compliance

Question 1

What is the well-recognised link between stopping AEDs and epilepsy?

Answer 1

abrupt withdrawal well-recognised trigger for status epilepticus, which may be fatal

Question 2

In known epileptics what is a good blood test to include during the A-E assessment?

Answer 2

measure blood anti-epileptic medication levels

Question 3

What should be done if AED withdrawal is required by the occurrence of toxicity e.g. rash or liver dysfunction?

Answer 3

new drug should be started simultaneously

Question 4

When should polytherapy be considered for epilepsy?

Answer 4

if a trial of three or so successive anticonvulsnats taken as monotherapy at adequate dosage for at least several months does not control a patient’s epilepsy, then can try dual therapy

Question 5

What is the benefit of polytherapy for epilepsy?

Answer 5

theoretical advantage of controlling neuronal hyperexcitability by more than one mechanism, which can be synergistic

Question 6

What should be done if status is triggered by removing an antiepileptic drug?

Answer 6

re-institude the drug