management of myoclonic seizures

Last edited 09/2018 and last reviewed 05/2021

Pharmacological treatment of myoclonic seizures

First-line treatment in children, young people and adults with myoclonic seizures

  • sodium valproate should be offered as first-line treatment to children, young people and adults with newly diagnosed myoclonic seizures, unless it is unsuitable. Follow the MHRA safety advice on sodium valproate
  • levetiracetam or topiramate should be considered if sodium valproate is unsuitable or not tolerated. Be aware that topiramate has a less favourable side-effect profile than levetiracetam and sodium valproate. Follow the MHRA safety advice on sodium valproate

Adjunctive treatment in children, young people and adults with myoclonic seizures

  • levetiracetam, sodium valproate or topiramate should be offered as adjunctive treatment to children, young people and adults with myoclonic seizures if first-line treatments are ineffective or not tolerated. Follow the MHRA safety advice on sodium valproate

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