New international classification of epilepsy and new antiepileptic drugs for medically intractable epilepsy

Abstract

The task force of the international league against epilepsy (ILAE) proposed the "Diagnostic scheme for people with epileptic seizures and epilepsy" in 2001. The 2001 diagnostic scheme was updated in 2006. The IDAE Core Group recommended the new classification to replace the previous one (IDAE, 1981, 1989). However, the new classification is too complex to use for clinicians except expert epileptologists. About 10 new antiepileptic drugs are launched recently. Among them, gabapentine, topiramate, and lamotrigine have been approved in Japan as adjunctive therapy for medically intractable seizures. The advantage of the new antiepileptic drugs includes newer mechanism of action, broad spectrum of anti-seizure effects, fewer side effects, and lesser drug interactions. The rational polytherapy is necessary for refractory epilepsy. The majority of elderly patients with new onset epilepsy become seizure free on antiepileptic monotherapy, often with modest dose. We are now in the new era of epilepsy treatment.