Newer antiepileptic drugs and non surgical approaches in epilepsy.

ABSTRACT

Newer antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) have helped the management of about one third of children with epilepsy who are refractory to primary AED(s). Vigabatrin and lamotrigine are being used as first line drugs for infantile spasms and Lennox Gestaut syndrome (LGS) respectively. Most of the others are, as of now, used as add-on drugs with specific indications. The ketogenic diet has been used successfully in some children with LGS. Steroids have a clear role in infantile spasms. Efficacy of immunoglobulins is mainly anecdotal. Physicians should familiarise themselves with the efficacy, pharmacokinetics and side effects of these drugs and ensure their rational use.