Media
Position Statement
New drug approved to treat childhood epilepsy
A new drug Inovelon (rufinamide) made by Eisai Europe Limited has been licensed. It will be used to help children with Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome.
Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome is a severe form of epilepsy. It is difficult to treat and can develop between the ages of two and six. Children who are affected by this uncommon syndrome often have “drop attack” (atonic) seizures. These can have severe consequences. This can mean children who are affected by Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome live with severe seizures and injuries caused by drop attacks.
All children with Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome will develop learning difficulties. These will be moderate to severe. A very small number of children will outgrow their seizures by the time they become teenagers. The remaining children will continue to have seizures. They will be dependent on others for support.
Chief Executive, Susan Douglas-Scott, said, “We are pleased that this drug is now available. In research trials this new drug reduced seizures by as much as 42%. This is good news and it will be of some relief to parents of children with this form of epilepsy. I encourage anyone who wants to know more about this medication to contact their doctor or our Helpline (0808 800 2200).”
Podcast
Listen to our Chief Executive, Susan Douglas-Scott's interview