Treatment of Epilepsy with Myoclonic Atonic Seizures in Stormy Phase with Generalised Tonic-Clonic Seizures
In epilepsy with myoclonic atonic seizures, a subset of patients enters a distinct, high-burden period known as the stormy phase — characterised by numerous seizures of multiple types occurring together, including generalised tonic-clonic and myoclonic seizures.
Clinical Scenario
This protocol addresses management during this acute presentation, where generalised tonic-clonic and myoclonic seizures are both active and seizure control has not been achieved with other measures.
Treatment Approach & Goals
The primary clinical goal is control of generalised convulsive seizures. The approach in this scenario involves a specific anticonvulsant for seizures that have proven resistant to other medications — the full regimen, including selection criteria and sequencing, is detailed in the complete protocol.
References
About a third of patients experience a so-called stormy phase, characterised by numerous seizures and seizure types, often generalised tonic-clonic and myoclonic seizures, culminating in non-convulsive status epilepticus.
During the stormy phase, low-dose phenobarbital might help control generalised convulsive seizures resistant to other medications, as supported by our clinical experience (panel).
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