Discontinuation of Antiseizure Medications in Patients With Brain Tumors

Neurology. 2024 Feb 27;102(4):e209163. doi: 10.1212/WNL.0000000000209163. Epub 2024 Jan 30.

Abstract

Patients with brain tumors will experience seizures during their disease course. While providers can use antiseizure medications to control these events, patients with brain tumors can experience side effects, ranging from mild to severe, from these medications. Providers in subspecialties such as neurology, neuro-oncology, neurosurgery, radiation oncology, and medical oncology often work with patients with brain tumor to balance seizure control and the adverse toxicity of antiseizure medications. In this study, we sought to explore the problem of brain tumor-related seizures/epilepsy in the context of how and when to consider antiseizure medication discontinuation. Moreover, we thoroughly evaluate the literature on antiseizure medication discontinuation for adult and pediatric patients and highlight recommendations relevant to patients with both brain tumors and seizures.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Anticonvulsants / adverse effects
  • Brain Neoplasms* / complications
  • Brain Neoplasms* / drug therapy
  • Child
  • Epilepsy* / drug therapy
  • Humans
  • Neurosurgical Procedures
  • Seizures / surgery

Substances

  • Anticonvulsants