Therapies for Lennox-Gastaut syndrome

Abstract

The treatment of Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome (LGS) has been improved with the introduction of the new anti-epileptic drugs: lamotrigine and topiramate, the employment of a ketogenic diet, and the availability of vagal nerve stimulation. It is difficult to provide recommendations for the treatment of LGS, in the absence of comparative trials. However, suggestions can be made on the basis of the best evidence available. Treatment should commence with valproate and continue with lamotrigine or topiramate. If seizure control is not sufficient, felbamate, a ketogenic diet, and vagal nerve stimulation are recommended. A partial callosotomy may be performed for the treatment of frequent drop attacks. Other anti-epileptic drugs may be used after a risks-benefits evaluation.