Managing epilepsy: what pharmacists need to know

摘要

Epilepsy is a common neurological disorder. The annual incidence is estimated to be 50 per 100,000 people and the prevalence of active epilepsy in the UK is estimated to be 5-10 per 1,000 people.1 Most clinical pharmacists will look after a patient with epilepsy at some point in their careers. Newer and more expensive antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) are now being prescribed and, with an increase in treatment costs likely in the coming years, it is essential that AEDs with proven clinical and cost effectiveness are identified and prioritised for use in the NHS.