Epilepsy and Treatment Resistance

Authors

Eva Kowalsky

Abstract

Epilepsy is one of the most common debilitating neurological conditions. Individuals with epilepsy experience frequent seizures. Seizures are caused by hyperexcitable and hyper-synchronized neurons. Anti-seizure medications typically work to normalize the electrical activity in the brain. Many epileptic disorders are caused by genetic mutations, most of which cause mutations in ion channel mechanics. 30% of individuals with epilepsy do not respond to classic anti-seizure medications. A combination of factors typically contributes to treatment resistance. Individuals with drug-resistant epilepsy must turn to novel approaches for seizure relief. These approaches include following a ketogenic diet, using CBD products, utilizing a neurostimulator device, or resorting to epilepsy surgery. These approaches are usually successful in providing seizure relief. The purpose of this review is to give an overview of epilepsy, discuss its mechanism of action, review the concept of drug resistance, and consider novel therapeutic options for those individuals.

Recommended Citation

Eva Kowalsky. (2023). Epilepsy and Treatment Resistance. The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences, 17(1), 33-42. Retrieved from https://touroscholar.touro.edu/sjlcas/vol17/iss1/5