Abstract:
Background: Pharmacological management of patients with epilepsy is still a very challenging approach for the best outcome of these patients. When
considering the appropriate treatment choice for patients it is necessary to take into account several factors that can influence the effectiveness and quality
of life. Cancelling or changing treatment suddenly can lead to uncontrolled seizures. After a short period without seizures, many patients are tempted to
abandon treatment. Cessation of treatment can be discussed after a seizure-free period for at least two years. Treatment should be discontinued gradually
by reducing the dosage and constant supervision of the physician. This paper analyses briefly the general pharmacological and treatment methods in
several forms of adult epilepsy.
Conclusions: Management of epilepsy means more than observing the medication prescribed by the specialist. It is also important for the patient to
maintain his general health status, monitor the symptoms of epilepsy and response to treatment and take care of his safety. Involvement in the management
of one’s own affection can help the patient to control his condition and to continue his routine in usual manner. The objective of antiepileptic treatment
is to reduce epileptic seizures to zero without intolerable side effects. New treatments should focus not only on reducing the frequency and intensity of
seizures but also improving the quality of life of patients.
Description:
Department of Psychiatry, Narcology and Medical Psychology,
National Epilepsy Center, State University of Medicine and Pharmacy Nicolae Testemitsanu, Chisinau, the Republic of Moldova
