Vigabatrin as first line therapy in infantile spasms: review of seven patients

Abstract

Objective: To study the efficacy of vigabatrin as initial therapy in infantile spasms.

Methodology: We reviewed seven patients with newly diagnosed infantile spasms referred to Tuen Mun Hospital, Hong Kong from 1994 to 1995. Vigabatrin was given as the initial monotherapy at therapeutic dose of 50-100 mg/kg. Efficacy was evaluated at the end of second week of treatment.

Results: Significant improvement was observed in four patients, 50-75% seizure reduction in two and no response in one patient. Efficacy was noted within the first week of treatment in five of the six patients who responded. No adverse effects were observed. Vigabatrin monotherapy could be continued in five patients.

Conclusion: Vigabatrin could be considered as the first line treatment in infantile spasms. A period of 2 weeks may be sufficient to evaluate its efficacy.