Main Research Findings

Rufinamide is a new antiepileptic drug that has been used to treat drug-resistant epilepsy in recent years. 13 The effectiveness of rufinamide and its impact on seizure frequency in patients diagnosed with drug-resistant epilepsy were investigated in this study. 13 A total of 38 patients with a mean age of 8.5 years were included in this study. 13 The mean follow-up duration was 25.5 months, and the mean maximal dose of rufinamide was 32.5 mg/kg/day. 13 The study found that rufinamide was effective in reducing seizure frequency, particularly in patients with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS). 13 The response rate for tonic seizures was 50%, and for drop/attacks seizures, the response rate was 73%. 13 However, patients with myoclonic and tonic-clonic seizures did not significantly benefit from rufinamide. 13 The rate of LGS patients who responded very well (reduction in seizure frequency > 50%) was 55.5%. 13 Rufinamide was not effective in two patients diagnosed with Dravet syndrome. 13 Another study found that rufinamide was the least preferable medication due to its low efficacy and high risk of adverse effects. 16 A study investigating the effects of rufinamide on cognitive function and neurogenesis in aged gerbils showed that rufinamide improved cognitive function and increased neurogenesis. 1 The study also found that rufinamide attenuated ischemia-reperfusion injury in the gerbil hippocampus. 4 A multicenter series of patients with developmental and epileptic encephalopathies (DEE) and related electroclinical patterns (REP) other than LGS who were treated with rufinamide as add-on therapy found that rufinamide was effective in this population. 22

Benefits and Risks

Benefit Summary

Rufinamide has shown potential benefits in treating drug-resistant epilepsy, particularly in patients with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS). 13 , 11 , 5 It has been shown to be effective in reducing the frequency of drop attacks, a common and severe seizure type in LGS. 13 Additionally, rufinamide may improve cognitive function and increase neurogenesis in the hippocampus. 1 , 1 It has also demonstrated neuroprotective effects against ischemic damage. 4

Risk Summary

Rufinamide has the potential for adverse effects. 1 These effects may include dizziness, somnolence, headache, fatigue, and nausea. 1 In addition, there is a risk of dopamine dysregulation syndrome. 6 Rufinamide can potentially affect a fetus if used during pregnancy. 10 It can also pass into breast milk. 20 Moreover, there are potential drug interactions with other medications. 24

Comparison Between Studies

Similarities in Studies

Multiple studies have indicated that rufinamide is effective in treating patients with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS). 13 , 11 , 5 However, differences in study designs and evaluation methods may contribute to varying results regarding the effectiveness and side effects of rufinamide. 1 , 9

Differences in Studies

Research evaluating the effectiveness and safety of rufinamide demonstrates variations in results due to differences in study design, population, and evaluation methods. 13 , 1 , 11 , 22 , 5 For instance, some studies have shown rufinamide to be effective in treating LGS patients, while others have found its effectiveness to be limited. 13 , 1 Similarly, findings on the side effects of rufinamide differ across studies. 1 , 9

Consistency and Contradictions in Results

The research findings on the effectiveness and safety of rufinamide exhibit both consistency and contradictions. 13 , 1 , 11 , 22 , 5 For example, while several studies have indicated the effectiveness of rufinamide in LGS patients, 13 , 11 , 5 research suggesting its effectiveness is limited also exists. 1 Similarly, the findings regarding the side effects of rufinamide vary between studies. 1 , 9 To resolve these contradictions, further research is needed.

Points to Consider in Real-World Application

Rufinamide has the potential to be a viable treatment option for drug-resistant epilepsy, particularly in LGS patients. 13 , 11 , 5 However, due to the possibility of side effects, it is crucial to use rufinamide safely under the guidance of a medical professional. 1 Before considering the use of rufinamide, it is vital to consult with a doctor to discuss the patient's condition and potential interactions with other medications. 24

Limitations of Current Research

Research on rufinamide remains insufficient. 13 , 1 , 11 , 22 , 5 Further research is necessary, especially regarding its long-term effects and safety. 9 , 7 Furthermore, more research is needed to understand the effectiveness of rufinamide in treating different types of epilepsy. 19

Future Directions for Research

Additional research is necessary to clarify the long-term effects and safety of rufinamide, as well as its effectiveness in treating various types of epilepsy. 13 , 1 , 11 , 22 , 5 , 9 , 7 , 19 Investigating the mechanisms of action of rufinamide in greater detail is also crucial. Additionally, the effectiveness of rufinamide in combination with other antiepileptic drugs should be examined. 21 Through these research endeavors, we can anticipate the safe and effective use of rufinamide in epilepsy treatment.

Conclusion

Rufinamide has shown promise as a potential treatment option for drug-resistant epilepsy, particularly in patients with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS). 13 , 11 , 5 However, it is important to use rufinamide safely under the guidance of a medical professional due to the potential for side effects. 1 Consult with your doctor regarding the use of rufinamide and any potential side effects. 24 Further research is crucial to optimize the safe and effective use of rufinamide in epilepsy treatment.