PMBs explained 2021

Page 48

Epilepsy

Epilepsy Epilepsy is a brain disorder that causes repeated seizures. There are many different types of epilepsy and many different kinds of seizures. A person having a seizure may seem confused, stare into space, wander, make unusual movements, or not be able to talk. Traumatic brain injuries, stroke, certain infections (such as cysticercosis, which is the leading cause of epilepsy worldwide), and pregnancy complications are some causes of epilepsy. EPILEPSY

Diagnosis

Primary partial seizures

Disease identification card or disc recommended

Start with phenytoin or carbamazepine or sodium valproate or valproic acid or phenobarbitone

Primary generalised seizures Start with sodium valproate or valproic acid

Not tolerated or controlled? Not tolerated or controlled?

Alternatives: Phenytoin or carbamazepine or sodium valproate or valproic acid or lamotrigine or topiramate or oxcarbazepine

Alternatives and/or addition: For absent seizures: ethosuximide For myoclonic seizures: clonazepam For tonic-clonic seizures: carbamazepine or phenytoin or lamotrigine or topiramate or oxcarbazepine

Ongoing seizures?

Ongoing seizures?

Add second drug Suggested combinations: Carbamazepine and sodium valproate or valproic acid, Phenytoin and sodium valproate or valproic acid, Sodium valproate or valproic acid and lamotrigine, Anticonvulsant and topiramate

Uncontrolled seizures Review for further management

Copyright: Council for Medical Schemes

Add second drug: If taking sodium valproate or valproic acid for absent seizures add ethosuximide, If taking sodium valproate or valproic acid for myoclonic seizures add clonazepam If taking sodium valproate or valproic acid for tonic-clonic seizures add lamotrigine

Uncontrolled seizures Review for further management

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48 PMB-X GUIDELINES 2021 *Treatment algorithm not to be associated with advertisement


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