Juvenile Myoclonic Epilepsy - an experience from north western India

Objectives - The clinical data on cases of Juvenile Myoclonic Epilepsy (JME ) were analysed. Response to initial small dosages (lower than usual) of so dium valproate and further lower maintenance dosages in patients who were s eizure free for 2 years on drug were assessed. Material and methods - Seven ty-six patients who were diagnosed to have Juvenile Myoclonic Epilepsy on d efinite criteria were studied. All patients were put on sodium valproate in dosages (lower than usual) for initial control and further lower maintenan ce dosage and response evaluated. Results The clinical profile was found to be similar as in other parts of India. There was a female preponderance an d average delay of 4.9 years in final diagnosis. Forty-eight (63.1%) patien ts showed good control on 15 mg/ kg/day dosages of sodium valproate. After a seizure free interval of 2 years, 58% of patients could be maintained on small dosages ranging from 3-5 mg/kg/day to 6-8 mg/kg/day. Conclusion - The majority of JME patients responded well not only to sodium valproate in do sages lower than usually prescribed but required very small dosages for mai ntenance after a seizure free period of 2 years.