A PROSPECTIVE STUDY ON PREVALENCE OF EPILEPSY DISORDERS AND DRUG UTILIZATION PATTERN

Abstract

ABSTRACT
Objective: Epilepsy is the second most common neurologic disorder after stroke. The study was undertaken to determine the prevalence of epilepsy
disorders and drug utilization pattern in a patient population of Dehradun. This study was conducted in a private health clinic.
Methods: A questionnaire was prepared that includes many practical questions regarding epilepsy seizure type, medication prescribed, their health
status, and compliance. A total of 200 cases of epilepsy were reported.
Results: The study showed the prevalence of epilepsy disorders which was most common among males (65%) as compared to females (35%). 44%
of epilepsy disorders were found prevalent among the age group between 30 and 40 years. The most common type of epilepsy disorder is primary
generalized seizure (62%) followed by partial seizures (23%), focal disorder (6%), grand mal cortical focal epilepsy (5%), typical seizures (3.5%),
refractory seizures (3%), and others (2.5%).
Conclusion: Epilepsy is one of the most serious neurological disorders in terms of both prevalence and cumulative incidence. Good education and
counseling is required for coping up the challenges of this condition as well for improving patient compliance. For decreasing the chances of adverse
effects and avoiding drug interactions monotherapy is important. Health-care providers and patients can together formulate a better therapeutic plan
for achieving a seizure-free status without adverse effects.
Keywords: Seizures, Antiepileptic drugs, Compliance.