80210 Rufinamide

Name of the Procedure:

Rufinamide Administration
Common name: Rufinamide
Technical term: Anticonvulsant Medication Administration

Summary

Rufinamide is a medication used primarily to control seizures in people with epilepsy. Administered orally, it works by stabilizing the electrical activity in the brain to prevent and reduce the frequency of seizures.

Purpose

Rufinamide is used to treat epilepsy, particularly Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome, a condition characterized by multiple types of seizures. The goal is to decrease seizure frequency and severity, improving the patient's quality of life.

Indications

• Specifically indicated for Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome.
• Used in patients experiencing uncontrolled seizures despite using other antiepileptic medications.
• Suitable for both pediatric and adult patients.

Preparation

• No specific fasting required.
• Patients should inform their doctor about all medications they are currently taking to avoid interactions.
• Regular monitoring of liver function and complete blood count (CBC) prior to starting the medication.

Procedure Description

1. Consultation: Patient has an initial consultation to assess suitability for Rufinamide.
2. Prescription: The doctor prescribes Rufinamide, starting at a low dose and gradually increasing it.
3. Administration: Rufinamide is taken orally, either in tablet or liquid suspension form.

4. Monitoring: Regular follow-up appointments to monitor effectiveness and side effects.

   Tools & Equipment: Oral tablets or liquid suspension, measuring devices for liquid forms.

Duration

The duration of taking Rufinamide can be lifelong or for as long as it is effective in controlling seizures. Each dose is typically taken twice daily.

Setting

This medication is prescribed and managed through a healthcare provider and taken at home.

Personnel

• Neurologist or Epileptologist (Epilepsy specialist)
• Pharmacist
• Primary Care Physician or Pediatrician (for ongoing monitoring)

Risks and Complications

• Common: Sleepiness, headache, dizziness, fatigue, nausea.
• Rare: Severe rash (including Stevens-Johnson syndrome), coordination problems, severe liver problems.
• Management may include dose adjustment or discontinuation if severe side effects occur.

Benefits

• Reduction in seizure frequency and intensity.
• Improvement in quality of life and daily functioning.
• Benefits might be realized within a few weeks after reaching an effective dose.

Recovery

• No specific recovery period since it's an ongoing medication.
• Patients need regular follow-up for dose adjustments and monitoring side effects.
• Education on maintaining a consistent medication schedule.

Alternatives

• Other antiepileptic medications like valproate, lamotrigine, or topiramate.
• Non-pharmacological treatments such as ketogenic diet, vagus nerve stimulation, or epilepsy surgery.
• Pros: Alternatives might be more suitable if Rufinamide is ineffective or causes severe side effects.
• Cons: They may also have their own side effects and varying degrees of effectiveness.

Patient Experience

• During: Taking medication with water, may experience mild side effects such as dizziness or drowsiness.
• After: Routine activities can usually be continued but should monitor for any adverse effects.
• Pain Management: Typically not painful, but discomfort from side effects can be managed through medication adjustments and supportive care.

By following this comprehensive outline, patients and healthcare providers can understand the process and expectations involved with Rufinamide administration for seizure control.