Tolerability and Efficacy of Depakote-extended Release in the Elderly
Status:
Completed
Trial end date:
2008-01-01
Target enrollment:
Participant gender:
Summary
There is a bimodal distribution to the new onset seizures with one peak occurring in the very
young and the second peak occurring in persons over age 65 years. The presentation of
seizures in the elderly may vary from that of younger patients and the diagnosis may be
confused with other conditions such as transient ischemic attacks. However, the consequences
of epilepsy in the elderly can be severe leading to impaired cognition, increased falls, and
a decreased quality of life. The treatment of epilepsy may be complicated by pharmacokinetic
and pharmacodynamic changes occurring in the elderly.