Abstracts

Rationale: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of extended-release valproic acid once daily in juvenile myoclonic epilepsy. Methods: Methods: Medical records of patients who received valproic acid monotherapy for the treatment of juvenile myoclonic epilepsy were retrospectively reviewed. Their clinical information regarding age, gender, seizure types, underlying neurologic status, dosing regimen, response to treatment, and adverse events related to valproic acid, were analyzed. Seizure control, compliance, and adverse events rates were compared between extended-released once daily group and twice daily group. Results: Results: Twenty one patients (11 boys and 10 girls) were included in the study. Twelve patients were taking valproic acid extended-release once daily and nine patients were taking twice a day. More than 50% decrease in myoclonic seizure was achieved in all the patients in both groups. Generalized tonic-clonic seizure was controlled in all the patients who were taking once daily while 3 patients (36%, 3/8 patients) in twice daily group had breakthrough generalized tonic clonic seizure during 2 year treatment period. However, there were no statistically significance differences in seizure control, compliance, and adverse event rates between the two groups. Conclusions: Conclusion: This study demonstrated that valproic acid extended-release once daily was as effective and tolerable as twice daily in the treatment of juvenile myoclonic epilepsy. Once daily valproic acid extended-release treatment would provide convenient once-daily administration, improve patient adherence, and consequently bring better outcome in treatment of juvenile myoclonic epilepsy.