Treatment of Epilepsy with Myoclonic Atonic Seizures in a Pathogenic SLC6A1 Gene Variant
When epilepsy with myoclonic atonic seizures is associated with a confirmed pathogenic variant in the SLC6A1 gene, the underlying genetic aetiology is a central consideration in selecting the appropriate management strategy.
Clinical scenario: Myoclonic atonic seizures in a patient carrying a pathogenic variant in the SLC6A1 gene. Valproate has been reported as the most effective agent in SLC6A1-related epilepsies, with lamotrigine and ethosuximide also showing efficacy in this population.
Treatment approach
Treatment goal
Primary target: improved seizure control.
References
- Valproate has been reported as the most effective drug for SLC6A1-related epilepsies, with lamotrigine and ethosuximide also showing efficacy.
- Based on evidence from a preprint paper, treatment of children with pathogenic STXBP1 or SLC6A1 variants with 4-phenylbutyrate resulted in improved seizure control in a single-treatment, multiple-dose, open-label study.