[Gabapentin used in 559 patients with partial seizures. A multicenter observation study. Spanish Gabapentin Work Group].

INTRODUCTION

Gabapentin (GBP) is a new antiepileptic drug whose efficacy and tolerability have been evaluated in clinical trials, although there is little data on its use in everyday clinical practice.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the characteristics of GBP in an observational study when used in patients with uncontrolled partial seizures.

PATIENTS AND

METHODS

An open multicentric study in which GBP was used in 559 patients of over 12 years of age with uncontrolled partial crises in whom the efficacy, tolerability and quality of life (QOLIE-10) over a period of 6 months were analysed.

RESULTS

The response rate (> 50% reduction in seizures) was 71% with 35.3% seizure-free patients. There were no differences related to age, aetiology, previous frequency of seizures or duration of the epilepsy. In 18.8% there were adverse effects (somnolence, dizziness, headache, blurred vision, diplopia and nausea), which were generally well-tolerated, but in 4.5% of the patients led to the drug being suspended. In the 65 patients in whom quality of life was evaluated there was improvement, both overall and in each aspect studied.

CONCLUSION

Under normal conditions of everyday clinical practice, GBP is an effective drug which is well tolerated by adults and adolescents with refractory partial seizures.