Levetiracetam and partial seizure subtypes: pooled data from three randomized, placebo-controlled trials

Abstract

Purpose: To determine the effect of levetiracetam (LEV) on partial seizure subtypes (simple partial, complex partial, and secondarily generalized seizures) in patients with refractory epilepsy.

Methods: Pooled results from three placebo-controlled trials were analyzed.

Results: A statistically significant reduction in the frequency of all partial seizures and all seizure subtypes was observed in the LEV group (p < 0.001 vs. placebo). The proportion of patients in whom secondarily generalized seizures could be prevented over and above the reduction of partial seizures was significantly greater in the LEV group as compared with placebo, with an odds ratio of 1.83 [95% confidence interval (CI), 1.10-3.05]. CONCLUSIONS; LEV reduces frequency of simple and complex partial seizures. In addition, it demonstrates a specific, independent reduction of secondarily generalized seizures.