Shift from older- to newer-generation antiseizure medications in people with acute ischemic stroke in Australia: A population-based study

Stella Jung Hyun Kim, Stephen Wood, Clara Marquina, Emma Foster, J. Simon Bell, Jenni Ilomäki

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Abstract

Objective: To investigate the trends in antiseizure medications (ASMs) use following ischemic stroke and to examine factors associated with use of newer- and older-generation ASMs. 

Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted using state-wide linked health datasets. Patients who were hospitalized with a first-ever ischemic stroke between 2013 and 2017 and were dispensed ASM within 12 months from discharge were included. Logistic regression was used to examine the predictors of receiving newer-generation ASMs. Generalized linear modeling was used to identify factors associated with ASM use after ischemic stroke. 

Results: Of 19 601 people hospitalized with a first-ever ischemic stroke, 989 were dispensed an ASM within 12 months from discharge. The most prevalent first ASMs were levetiracetam (38.0%), valproate (25.8%), and carbamazepine (10.3%). Most people were dispensed ASM monotherapy (86.9%). There was a shift toward the use of newer-generation ASMs between 2013 and 2017 (odds ratio [OR] 2.82, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.92–4.16). Metropolitan residents were more likely to be dispensed newer-generation ASMs as a first-line treatment (OR 1.79, 95% CI 1.31–2.45). People over 85 years (OR 0.38, 95% CI 0.23–0.64), with dementia (OR 0.35, 95% CI 0.19–0.63) and psychotic comorbidities (OR 0.29, 95% CI 0.09–0.96) were less likely to be dispensed newer-generation ASMs. Older age (coefficient [β] 0.23, P = 0.030), history of beta blocker use (β 0.17, P = 0.029), multiple ASMs (β 0.78, P < 0.001), and newer-generation ASM (β 0.23, P = 0.001) were associated with higher defined daily dose (DDD) of ASM whereas female sex and being married were associated with lower DDD. 

Significance: There has been a shift toward newer-generation ASMs for poststroke seizures and epilepsy. Concerningly, vulnerable patient groups were more likely to be dispensed older-generation ASMs. This may lead to unnecessary exposure to adverse events and drug–drug interactions. Further research is needed to evaluate comparative effectiveness and safety of newer- and older-generation ASMs in poststroke populations.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1413-1424
Number of pages12
JournalEpilepsia Open
Volume8
Issue number4
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Dec 2023

Keywords

  • antiseizure medication
  • drug utilization
  • ischemic stroke
  • post-stroke seizure

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