Epilepsy
ICD-10 G40 · ICD-11 8A6Z

Treatment of Epilepsy with Generalized Convulsive, Atonic, Tonic, Myoclonic, or Absence Seizures in Adults

This protocol applies to adults aged 16 years and older presenting with generalized epilepsy — specifically convulsive, atonic, tonic, myoclonic, or absence seizure types.

Generalized seizures in this population are typically bilateral and symmetric, although variants with asymmetry, including head and eye deviation, are possible. The protocol is structured for younger adults (16 to 59 years of age).

When Seizures Remain Uncontrolled

For patients with medically refractory epilepsy, the protocol outlines specific non-pharmacological interventions — including surgical and neuromodulatory options. The complete structured regimen, with criteria for each approach, is available via the link below.

Instant Access to Structured Evidence-Based Regimens
References

Typically bilateral and symmetric, although variants with asymmetry, including head and eye deviation, are possible.

Younger adults (16 to 59 years of age).

For patients with seizures that are not controlled with these agents, alternative treatments include surgical resection of the seizure focus, ketogenic diets, vagus nerve stimulators, and implantable brain neurostimulators.

Surgical resection of the seizure focus in appropriately selected patients often results in decreased frequency or elimination of seizures with improvement in quality of life.

Vagus nerve stimulation may increase seizure-free time in patients with medically refractory epilepsy who are not candidates for surgery or in whom surgery has been ineffective.

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