Evidence Based Guidelines

Management of Epilepsy
in Adults
Evidence Based Guidelines recommended for use in
The Royal Melbourne Hospital

July 2002

Review Date: July 2004

Department of Neurology & Clinical Epidemiology and Health Service

Evaluation Unit

Supported by funding from the Department of Human Services

Table of Contents
Introduction......................................................................................................................................................3
Multi-disciplinary Review Group ................................................................................................................3
Other Contributors .......................................................................................................................................3
Document Preparation..................................................................................................................................3
Intent of the guidelines.................................................................................................................................3
Process of Guidelines Development ............................................................................................................4
Levels of Evidence for Evaluating the Clinical Research data....................................................................4
Emergency Department management of First Seizure in adults 1 Page Flow-Chart ..................................5
Emergency Department management of Status Epilepticus in adults 1 Page Flow-Chart ..........................6
1. FIRST SEIZURE click for evidence review.........................................................................................7
1.a Emergency department management of first seizure in adults ............................................................7
Table 1. Recommendations: Emergency Department management of first seizure ..............................7
1.b Decision to start an Antiepileptic Drug................................................................................................8
Table 2: Information to discuss with patient prior to commencing AED...............................................8
Table 3. Recommendations. Decision to start AED following first seizure ..........................................8
Table 4. Choice of antiepileptic drug for seizure type............................................................................9
2. ESTABLISHED EPILEPSY....................................................................................................................9
2.a Ongoing management of patients with Epilepsy .................................................................................9
Table 5: Recommendations: Ongoing management of patients with epilepsy......................................9
2.b Therapeutic dose & haematological monitoring for adverse effects - click for evidence review .......9
Table 6: Recommendations: Therapeutic dose & haematological monitoring for adverse effects ......10
2.c Treatment of refractory epilepsy........................................................................................................10
Table 7: Recommendations: Treatment of refractory epilepsy.............................................................10
3. STATUS EPILEPTICUS - click for evidence review ...........................................................................11
Table 8: Recommendations: Management of Convulsive Status Epilepticus .....................................11
4. VIDEO EEG MONITORING - click for evidence review....................................................................12
Table 9: Recommendation: Indications for Video EEG monitoring ...................................................12
5. SURGERY - click for evidence review .................................................................................................12
Table 10: Recommendations: Surgery for epilepsy.............................................................................12
6. WOMEN WITH EPILEPSY- click for evidence review.......................................................................13
Table 11: Recommendations. Management of women with epilepsy .................................................13
7. DRIVING GUIDELINES ......................................................................................................................14
Table 12. Recommendations: Driving guidelines................................................................................14
Appendix 1: International Classification of Epileptic Seizures (abbreviated)..............................................15
Appendix 2: Guidelines for fitness to drive following an epileptic seizure...................................................16
For non-commercial drivers.......................................................................................................................16
For Commercial licences ...........................................................................................................................16
Appendix 3: Emergency Department Discharge Pack - First Seizure ..........................................................17
Appendix 4: Letter to General Practitioner following a presumed seizure First Seizure ..........................18
Appendix 5: Emergency Department Discharge Pack Established Epilepsy ............................................19
Appendix 6: Letter to General Practitioner following a presumed seizure Established Epilepsy .............20
References ......................................................................................................................................................21
2

Introduction
Multi-disciplinary Review Group
The guidelines were developed by Christine Kilpatrick, Donald Campbell, and Adrian Lowe. The
following multi-disciplinary group reviewed and contributed to the guidelines.
A/Prof Christine Kilpatrick
Dr Alastair Meyer
A/Prof David Russell
A/Prof Donald Campbell
Mr Andrew Van Slobbe
A/Prof David Taylor
Dr Cassandra Szoeke
Dr Kasha Singh
Dr Isabella Taylor
Dr Anita Vinton
Dr Mark Parsons
Dr Mark Hew
Dr Helmut Butzkueven
Dr Peter Greenberg
Dr Karen Honson
Dr Ian Fraser
Dr Heather Smith
Mr Adrian Lowe

Deputy Director
Acting Director, Emergency
Medicine
Director
Unit Head
Nurse Unit Manager
Director of Emergency
Medicine Research
Epilepsy Registrar
Stroke Registrar
Neurology Registrar
Neurology Registrar
Neurologist
Senior Medical Registrar
Neurologist
Director of Evidence Based
Medicine
Neuroscience Pharmacist
Director of Physician Training
Medical Education Officer
Epilepsy Project Officer

Department of Neurology
Emergency Department
Department of General Medicine
Clinical Epidemiology
Ward 4 South
Emergency Department
Department of Neurology
Department of Neurology
Department of Neurology
Department of Neurology
Department of Neurology
Department of General Medicine
Department of Neurology
Department of General Medicine
Department of Pharmacy
Department of Nephrology
Medical Administration
Department of Neurology

Other Contributors
Internal review of the guidelines was performed by A/Prof Terry OBrien and Dr Zelko Matkovic, who are
both epileptologists and work at The Royal Melbourne Hospital. Dr Raymond Martyres reviewed the
guidelines from the perspective of a General Practitioner.
Document Preparation
This document was prepared by Adrian Lowe, and reviewed by all members of the multi-disciplinary
reference group.
Intent of the guidelines
This document provides current evidence-based guidance about critical decisions in the management of
adult patients with epilepsy and a first seizure attending Royal Melbourne Hospital.

These guidelines are not a prescriptive standard of medical care. Standards of medical care are
determined on the basis of all clinical data available for an individual patient.
This is a guide to evidence-based practice. Adherence to these guidelines will not ensure a successful
outcome in every case. The guidelines may not include all proper methods of care or exclude other
acceptable methods of care aimed at achieving the same results.
The ultimate choice about clinical procedures and/or treatments are made by the patient (and/or carer)
following recommendations from the treating medical practitioner based on the range of options
available.

Process of Guidelines Development

The development of these guidelines has been based on existing international and national guidelines for
12
3-13
the overall management of epilepsy and specific aspects of epilepsy . Further systematic searching of
the literature has been undertaken to supplement the information presented in existing guidelines. Key
articles referenced by existing guidelines were retrieved, and search strategies were devised around the
Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) and key words that described these core papers. The reference list of
each article retrieved was reviewed for articles relevant to the topic under review. These articles were
obtained, checked, and summarised if appropriate. If the article was appropriate, but did not appear in the
results from the original search strategy, the articles MESH headings were examined to determine why it
was not identified previously, and the search strategy modified accordingly to determine if other articles
had also been missed for the same reason. As such, a cascade approach was adopted.
Individual searches were conducted on various topics (see
http://www.mh.org.au/clinicalepidemiology/epreview.pdf) for full details of each search strategys results).
The search strategy aimed to find the highest level of evidence possible for a particular question. If a high
level of evidence was located, then the search ceased. If not, the search continued for lower levels of
evidence. To view the evidence review on a particular topic, click on the heading of the topic in this
document. This will open the evidence review document used to from this document.
Two general search limits were applied to all strategies. Due to time and budget limitations, only articles
in English were retrieved. As these guidelines are directed only at treatment of adult patients at Royal
Melbourne Hospital, articles that only studied children were excluded, unless no other studies existed.
The guidelines were developed through weekly focus group meetings conducted at The Royal Melbourne
Hospital between Christine Kilpatrick, Donald Campbell, and Adrian Lowe. Please send any comments or
recommendations concerning these guidelines please e-mail Christine.Kilpatrick@mh.org.au
.
Levels of Evidence for Evaluating the Clinical Research data
The National Health and Medical Research Councils (NH&MRCs) levels of evidence when evaluating
clinic research data have been used.
77el Type of Evidence

Level
I
II
III 1
III 2
III 3

IV

Type of Evidence.
Evidence obtained from a systematic review of all relevant randomised controlled trials
Evidence obtained from at least one properly designed randomised controlled trial
Evidence obtained from well-designed controlled studies without randomisation
Evidence obtained from well-designed cohort or case-control analytic studies preferably
from more than one centre or research group
Evidence obtained from multiple time series with or without the intervention. Dramatic
results in uncontrolled experiments (such as the results of the introduction of penicillin
treatment in the 1940s) are examples of this type of evidence
Opinions of respected authorities, based on clinical experience, descriptive studies
and/or reports of expert committees

Emergency Department management of First Seizure in adults

1 Page Flow-Chart
Confirm diagnosis and type of seizure

Initial treatment to stop seizure activity if patient

in Status or has multiple seizures. See Emergency
Department Status Protocol

If epileptic seizure not suspected refer if

appropriate to General Medical Registrar

Evaluate potential causes of Seizure

Consider: Infection, provoked seizure (medication, alcohol, drug use or sleep
deprivation), metabolic disturbance & non-epileptic seizure
CT brain & contrast, ECG, FBE, U&E, LFT in Emergency Department
Order outpatient EEG

Abnormal test results

If appropriate treat underlying cause.
(eg CT lesion/tumour)

Normal test results

AED usually not commenced if single seizure and investigations normal

Consider commencement of AED medication
If definite Seizure &
CT reveals an epileptogenic lesion
or history of recent previous seizure

Discuss with Neurology registrar

Admit or Discharge?
Admit if:
Multiple Seizures or Status
Prolonged post ictal confusion, or focal neurological deficit
Investigations reveal underlying condition that requires treatment
Discharge if:
Patient has normal test results, and has fully recovered.

Actions on Discharge
Confirm EEG ordered
Make appointment for First Seizure Clinic
Give safety advice (no driving or operating heavy machinery, swimming alone,
heights, or baths)
Give patient discharge pack (see appendix 3 & 4)
5

Emergency Department management of Status Epilepticus in adults

1 Page Flow-Chart

1. Secure airway
2. Commence oxygen
3. Assessment of cardiac and respiratory function
4. IV access
5. Draw blood for FBC, U&E, LFTs, Ca, Glucose,
clotting, AED levels and storage for later analysis

IMMEDIATE ACTIONS
IV Diazepam (0.15mg/kg at 5mg/min). Repeat if
status epilepticus continues

Establish aetiology.
50ml 50% glucose IV if suggestion of hypoglycaemia;
250mg thiamine IV if suggestion of alcohol abuse or
impaired nutritional status

IV Phenytoin (18mg/kg at 50mg/min)

FOLLOWED BY
Resume or commence oral AED when patient is able

IF STATUS / SEIZURES
CONTINUE

Transfer to ICU

Call Neurology registrar for all cases of status

epilepticus

1.

FIRST SEIZURE click for evidence review

1.a
Emergency department management of first seizure in adults
Seizures and seizure like events may be induced by a myriad of conditions. The role of the Emergency
Department assessment of patients presenting with a seizure is to confirm that the patient is in no
immediate danger, establish a probable cause for the seizure, and to refer the patient to appropriate followup services.
Table 1. Recommendations: Emergency Department management of first seizure
1 3 14-19

Perform physical and neurologic examination, and take medical history that includes:
- Provoking factors (sleep deprivation, medication, alcohol or drugs)
- Type of seizure
- Details of previous seizures
Brain CT scan with contrast. This will help determine if there is an underlying cause for the
20-22 23-33
seizure and assist making a differential diagnosis
.
20-22 34-39
Perform EEG within 48 hours of seizure if possible. If not, as soon as available
MRI brain scan will be ordered through First Seizure clinic, if indicated
1 14 16 18
Consider differential diagnosis. Common conditions that should be considered are
1.
Syncope
2.
Migraine
3.
TIA
4.
Psychogenic seizures
5.
Metabolic disturbances (eg. Na, Mg)
An attempt to determine the seizure type, as per the International Classification of Seizures
1 14 18 40
(See appendix 1), should be made
Discuss with Neurology registrar, including need for Anti-epileptic drug (AED) treatment if:
- Multiple seizures
- History of recent previous seizures
- CT brain scan reveals an epileptogenic lesion
See table 4 choice of AED drug
14
The decision to admit or discharge the patient should be made on the following grounds
Discharge if
Admit if
- patient fully recovered
- Prolonged postictal state
- brain CT satisfactory and
- Multiple seizures or status epilepticus
- laboratory tests satisfactory
- Focal signs on examination
- Investigations reveal underlying
condition that requires treatment
If a patient is deemed appropriate for discharge, and an epileptic seizure is suspected, the
14
following actions should be taken:
1. Make appointment for First Seizure Clinic, and an outpatient EEG, or organise
follow up as a private patient
2. Give advice that due to the risk of further seizures, patients should
a. Not drive any form of motor vehicle (see appendix 2 for guidelines)
b. Not swim alone
c. Have a shower instead of a bath. Turn on the cold tap first. Lower the
temperature on the hot water service.
d. Avoid heights
e. Avoid dangerous machinery
3. Give patient a copy of the First Seizure Discharge Pack (see appendix 3 & 4). Fill
in details of the patients follow up appointments
If the patient has an established diagnosis of epilepsy, give them the Established Epilepsy
Discharge Pack (see appendix 5 & 6). Refer the patient to their GP, or to their specialist or
the Epilepsy Clinic at the Royal Melbourne Hospital.

Evidence
grade
IV

III-2
III-2
IV
IV

IV
IV

IV

IV

IV

1.b

Decision to start an Antiepileptic Drug

There are a number of antiepileptic medications available. The possibility of commencing medication
should be raised with the patient following a seizure. It is ultimately the patients decision as to whether or
not to start this medication. The following information should be discussed with patients prior to deciding
to take AED medication.
Table 2: Information to discuss with patient prior to commencing AED
20-22 34-39 41-53

The overall risk of a second seizure over a 3-year period is 40 - 50%

The risk of further seizures is highest in the first months following a seizure, and drops
20-22 34-39 41-53
quickly following this period
An epileptic discharge on an EEG test increases the risk of recurrence, to approximately
20 21 34-39
80%
20An epileptogenic lesion on CT scan increases the risk of recurrence to approximately 80%

Evidence
grade
III-2
III-2
III-2
III-2

22
39 51-53

AED medication lowers risk of a further seizure to 20 - 25%

All AED medication can cause adverse reactions (such as somnolence and rash). If these do
54-69
occur, most effects are reversible simply by discontinuing the medication
Very rarely, a patient may have severe or even fatal adverse reaction to AED. This will
70
normally occur in the first 6 months of treatment
AEDs can cause reproductive difficulties and possibly have some teratogenic effects in some
6 11 72-74
women, and reduce the effectiveness of oral contraception
Staff should consider discussing the risk of Sudden Unexplained Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP)
with the patient. SUDEP is a rare event (0.5 to 2 per 1,000 patient years) where a patient
75-78
with epilepsy dies for no known reason. The causes of SUDEP are uncertain
Patients should consider the benefit of this reduced risk of seizures, but also the lifestyle and
67
safety issues of taking AED

II
I

Table 3. Recommendations. Decision to start AED following first seizure

Evidence
grade
IV

Use of an AED following a single seizure is generally not recommended, if tests are normal

III-3
III-3
IV

IV

67

If epileptic discharge is detected on EEG, or neuroimaging reveals an epileptogenic lesion,

or the patient has had one or more seizures in the recent past, then commencing an AED is
1 67
recommended
If the patient elects to begin AED therapy, they should be warned that the AED may have
adverse effects, and to seek medical attention for symptoms including rash, bruising or
somnolence with vomiting especially if they occur in the first weeks of treatment. If a rash
1 67
develops the drug should be ceased

IV

IV

Table 4. Choice of antiepileptic drug for seizure type

2
Recommendations made by Therapeutic Guidelines
Seizure Type
Partial Seizures (simple or complex)
Tonic-clonic seizures
- generalised
- secondarily generalised
- undetermined if generalised or partial
Absence seizures
Myoclonic seizures

Anti-epileptic drug
Carbamazepine
Sodium valproate
Carbamazepine
Carbamazepine, Sodium valproate
Ethosuximide (absence only)
Sodium valproate (absence and tonic-clonic)
Sodium valproate

For additional information on the use of AEDs, please refer to the Clinicians Health Channel and
(http://www.clinicians.vic.gov.au/eleclib.htm) and click on the Neurology section of the Therapeutic
Guidelines.

2. ESTABLISHED EPILEPSY
2.a

Ongoing management of patients with Epilepsy

Epilepsy is a chronic condition, with potentially complex management issues. Communication between
hospital staff and the patients General Practitioner (GP) is essential to maintain a continuum of care for the
patient. Unfortunately, patients with epilepsy often report feeling that care for their condition is not being
shared properly between hospital staff and their GP.
Table 5: Recommendations: Ongoing management of patients with epilepsy
Staff from the First Seizure Clinic and Epilepsy Clinic should correspond with the patients
GP concerning the diagnosis and management of the patients epilepsy
Patients with epilepsy should be encouraged to visit their GP every 3 months, to review their
condition
GPs should be encouraged to refer patients with refractory epilepsy, or who require
medication regime alterations, to the Epilepsy Clinic
Staff should encourage patients to gain a greater understanding of their epilepsy. Patient
information on various topics concerning epilepsy has been produced by the Epilepsy
Foundation of Victoria, which can be contacted with the following details:
Epilepsy Foundation of Victorias: http://www.epinet.org.au/, or by calling 1300 852 853

Evidence
grade
IV
IV
IV
IV

2.b
Therapeutic dose & haematological monitoring for adverse effects - click for
evidence review
All AEDs may cause adverse effects, with the majority being dose related. The effectiveness of AED
medication is determined by the free plasma concentration of the active anti-epileptic drug. Routine
plasma AED concentration measures total not free drug. This needs to be taken into consideration when
interpreting levels. Each AED has a recommended dosage regime, and plasma concentration of the active
drug (see http://www.amh.hcn.net.au/).
There is no evidence that routine AED level monitoring increases seizure control, when compared to
clinical management of dosage level based on seizure frequency and signs of toxicity. However, there are
instances where AED level monitoring is appropriate (see table 6).

Due to the potential for serious adverse effects, haematological monitoring for liver function and blood cell
count has been proposed. There is however, no evidence that such monitoring reduces the risk of such
events, due to the enormous sample sizes required to form a definitive answer to this question.
Table 6: Recommendations: Therapeutic dose & haematological monitoring for
adverse effects
79-87
Routine AED plasma level monitoring should not be undertaken
84
Measurement of plasma AED levels should be taken only for one of the following purposes

Evidence
grade
III-2
IV

88 89

1. Establishing compliance
2. Establishing baseline effective concentrations
3. Evaluating potential cause for lack of efficacy
4. Evaluation potential cause for toxicity
5. Evaluating potential cause for loss of efficacy
6. Judging room to move or when to change AEDs
7. Patients who are pregnant
There is no conclusive evidence to support or refute the use of haematological monitoring
90 91
for serious adverse effects
Many however, recommend FBE, U&E and LFT be performed on initiation of AED therapy
92-95
and every 6 months thereafter
2.c

III-2
IV

Treatment of refractory epilepsy

In approximately 30% of patients, the initial AED will not prevent all seizures. The patient has a number
of options in this situation.
Table 7: Recommendations: Treatment of refractory epilepsy
Patients with refractory epilepsy should be referred to the epilepsy clinic
If seizures continue following initiation of AED medication at an appropriate dose, the
patient should be presented with the following options
54 56-59 64 96
1. If reasonable response to initial AED, add another AED
2. If limited response to initial AED, replace with another AED

2 97

Evidence
grade
IV

I
IV

10

3. STATUS EPILEPTICUS - click for evidence review

Status epilepticus is defined as epileptic activity lasting longer than 30 minutes. Generalised convulsive
status epilepticus is a medical emergency, and is associated with high levels of morbidity and mortality.
Frequent recurrence seizures should also be treated in this manner.
Table 8: Recommendations: Management of Convulsive Status Epilepticus
Immediate measures: Secure airway; commence oxygen; assessment of cardiac and
respiratory function; IV access; draw blood for FBC, U&E, LFTs, Ca, Glucose, clotting,
1 15 98
AED levels and storage for later analysis
99 100
IV Diazepam (0.15mg/kg at 5mg/min). Repeat if status epilepticus/seizures continue
Establish aetiology. Give 50ml 50% glucose IV if any suggestion of hypoglycaemia; IV
15 98
thiamine 250mg if any suggestion of alcohol abuse or impaired nutritional status
100
Followed by: IV Phenytoin (18mg/kg at 50mg/min).
When the patient is able, long term oral AED medication should be initiated as indicated by
2
seizure type
101
If status continues or seizures recur: Transfer the patient to ICU
The Neurology registrar should be informed of all cases of status epilepticus

Evidence
grade
IV

II
IV
II
IV
III - 3
IV

11

4.

VIDEO EEG MONITORING - click for evidence review

Video EEG monitoring involves the simultaneous recording of a patients EEG pattern and a video
recording of the patients behaviour. Epileptic seizures are defined by abnormal electrical patterns in the
brain. An interictal EEG is conducted between seizures, and aims to detect epileptiform activity not
associated with a seizure. However, not all patients with epilepsy will have epileptiform EEG activity
between seizures. The aim of video-EEG is to record a patients EEG activity whilst having a seizure, and
correlate this with their behaviour. To do this, patients are recorded for extended periods of time. Due to
the time and the intensive nature of Video EEG, indications for its use are limited.
Table 9: Recommendation: Indications for Video EEG monitoring
4 7 102-106

Indications for Video-EEG monitoring

1. Diagnosis of non-epileptic attacks

Evidence
grade
IV

2. Classification of seizure types (eg complex partial and atypical absence seizure),
particularly where seizures are refractory to AED therapy
3. Localisation of epileptogenic region in preparation for epilepsy surgery

5.

SURGERY - click for evidence review

Surgery can be performed in some patients to remove the region of the brain responsible for the epileptic
activity. However, only a small group of patients are suitable for this form of therapy. Patients with
Temporal Lobe Epilepsy caused by hippocampal sclerosis are the most common surgical candidates. Such
patients normally undergo a temporal lobectomy. Surgery for epilepsy is invasive, and is associated with
some risk of adverse effects.
Table 10: Recommendations: Surgery for epilepsy
Patients who have intractable epilepsy, despite appropriate use of AEDs, should be referred
14
for surgical evaluation
Approximately 63% of patients with temporal lobe epilepsy who undergo surgery will be
seizure free at twelve months following the operation, compared to only 8% of patients
107
treated medically
70-80% of patients with well lateralised temporal lobe seizure focus due to hippocampal
sclerosis, have an excellent outcome. AED medication should be continued following
108
surgery
Approximately 5% of patients will have a major complication associated with surgery for
epilepsy (such as infarct, infection, and decline in memory), while approximately 10% will
108
have minor and resolvable complications

Evidence
grade
IV
II

III - 1

III - 2

12

6.

WOMEN WITH EPILEPSY- click for evidence review

Women with epilepsy face a number of potential problems, particularly concerning child-bearing. These
problems include decreased effectiveness of oral contraception whilst taking AED medications, increased
risk of adverse outcomes associated with pregnancy and other health related issues.
Table 11: Recommendations. Management of women with epilepsy
Contraception. Due to their liver enzyme inducing properties, the following AEDs are
associated with decreased effectiveness of oral contraception: carbamazepine, phenytoin,
phenobarbitone, primidone, and possibly topiramate. A high dose contraceptive
formulations may provide some protection, but women should be warned that there is still an
109-120
increased risk of conception whilst taking these AEDs
Referral for women considering pregnancy. Any woman with epilepsy who is
considering a pregnancy should be referred to a Neurologist/Epileptologist or a physician
with particular knowledge of this topic
Pre-pregnancy. To reduce risk of neural tube defects in the foetus, all women of child121-124
bearing age on an AED should take a folate supplement (5mg/day).
However, women should also be warned that folate supplementation may be associated with
125 126
an increased incidence of multiple births
Risk of seizures during pregnancy. Women should be warned that there maybe an
increased risk of seizures during pregnancy, although the majority of patients remain
127-138
stable
AED treatment practice during pregnancy. Women with epilepsy should be treated with
the lowest effective dose of AED. Where possible, monotherapy should be used. The need
for AED medication should be re-evaluated prior to a woman becoming pregnant, to ensure
73 139
the medication is truly needed
AED serum monitoring during pregnancy. The pharmacokinetics of AEDs change during
pregnancy, resulting in reduced serum levels. Serum AED levels may need to be monitored
more closely during pregnancy and post partum. Ideally, the free level of the AED should be
10 72 73 139 140
measured, due to decreased protein binding during pregnancy
Risk of foetal malformation. Women on AEDs should be warned that the risk of major
malformations in their foetus is twice to three times that of the general population, and is
probably between 4-9%. This risk increases with the number of AEDs used, and higher
11 72 73 139 140
doses of AEDs during the pregnancy
At birth. Vitamin K supplement should be administered, to reduce the risks of cerebral
haemorrhage in the neonate, due to the inhibitory actions of AEDs on vitamin K
141-145
production.
Following birth. Close attention should be paid to the mother following delivery. AED
10 72 73 139
levels can rise rapidly, as the pharmacokinetics of the AEDs return to normal state

Evidence
grade
IV

IV

IV

III-2

IV

IV

III-2

III-2

IV

140

Breast-feeding. All AEDs are excreted in breast milk. The rates of transfer vary between
AEDs. If it is decided to breast feed, attention should be paid to ensure that the infant is not
sedated by the AEDs. Breast-feeding is contraindicated if the patient is taking
146 147
benzodiazepines or barbiturates
Other health issues. AEDs may be associated with dyslipidemia and accelerated
11
osteoporosis

IV

III-3

13

7.

DRIVING GUIDELINES

The effect of having an epileptic seizure whilst driving a car, or other vehicle, can be devastating for both
the patient and the public. To balance the needs of the individual and the public, and maintain fairness and
a uniform approach, guidelines have been produced by Austroads and National Road Transport
Commission (NRTC). These should be used to assess a patients fitness to drive. The Medical Advisory
Board of VicRoads may be contacted to clarify recommendations for specific patients.
Table 12. Recommendations: Driving guidelines
What to tell the patient: Advice must be given to patients concerning their fitness to drive
12
following a seizure. The guidelines formulated by Austroads (non-commercial licences) &
13
NRTC (commercial licences) should be utilised (see appendix 2)
Where to go if the guidelines are unclear: If the Austroads or NRTC guidelines are
unclear on their recommendations for a particular patients circumstances, or there is some
dispute over the recommended seizure free time, the Medical Advisory Board from
VicRoads should be contacted (Medical Review, VicRoads Registration and Licensing, PO
Box 2504, Kew 3101)

Evidence
grade
IV

IV

14

Graphic

Appendix 1: International Classification of Epileptic Seizures (abbreviated)

I Partial (arising from a focal or local cortical lesion, most commonly

the temporal lobe)
A Simple partial
(no loss of consciousness)

B Complex partial
(loss of consciousness; may start with loss of awareness or may follow a simple partial seizure; may be with or
without automatisms, e.g. lipsmacking, rubbing hands, walking, running with no recollection)

C Partial evolving to secondarily generalised seizure with tonic, tonic-clonic or clonic features
II Generalised (with bilateral discharges involving subcortical structures -convulsive or nonconvulsive; EEG shows bilateral discharges; consciousness is lost at the onset except in myoclonus;
motor features bilateral)
A Absence
(previously called petit mal; last seconds; +/- minor automatisms)

B Myoclonic
(may be simple or multiple jerks, often upper limbs)

C, D, E Tonic, Tonic-clonic or Clonic

(previously called grand mal)

F Atonic
(a form of drop attack; sudden loss of posture of head, limbs or body)

III Unclassified (usually used when an adequate description is not available, e.g. often in seizures
from sleep)
Adapted from Commission of Classification and Terminology of the International League against Epilepsy.
148
Epilepsia 1981; 22:489-501.

15

Appendix 2: Guidelines for fitness to drive following an epileptic seizure

For non-commercial drivers
Excerpt from Austroads (2001). Assessing fitness to drive: Guidelines and standards for health
12
professionals in Australia. Austroads: Sydney. pp 27-29 . Also located at
http://www.austroads.com.au/austroads/Others/ftd2001(sec).pdf. Please see this document for a discussion
of the principles behind these recommendations. The Medical Advisory Board of VicRoads may be
contacted to clarify recommendations for specific patients.
MEDICAL STANDARDS EPILEPSY (recommended seizure-free periods)
Condition
Drivers of cars and light trucks, motorcycle riders
Chronic Epilepsy
Generally 2 years. A shorter period only on
(history of previously uncontrolled
recommendation of an experienced consultant where
seizures)
there is clear evidence of seizure control (eg. following
adjustment and stabilisation of anti-epileptic drug
treatment)
Isolated Seizure
3-6 months. Consultant opinion recommended
Recently Diagnosed Epilepsy
3-6 months. Consultant opinion recommended
Recurrent Seizure in a Person Previously 3 months from last seizure, if fulfilling all other
Seizure Free due to Identifiable
criteria as set out in these guidelines. Provocation may
Provocation
include illness, drug interaction, sleep deprivation
Recurrent Seizure on Withdrawal of
1 month after resuming previously effective
Medication on Medical Advice
medication or 2 years if refusing to resume medication
Seizure Causing Accident
Minimum of 1 year. Consultant opinion essential
Seizures only in Sleep
12 months from the last seizure whilst awake
Surgery for Epilepsy
12 months
Withdrawal of Anti-Epileptic Drug
The full period of withdrawal and at least 3 months
Therapy where there is significant risk of thereafter. Consultant opinion is recommended to
recurrent seizure
determine if there is a significant level of risk or
otherwise.
For Commercial licences
Excerpt from National Road Transport Commission (1994). Medical Guidelines for Commercial Vehicle
13
Drivers . NRTC. Located at http://www.nrtc.gov.au/publications/med-e.asp?lo=public. Please see this
document for a discussion of the principles behind these recommendations.

Criteria
The criteria are NOT met:
if epilepsy is confirmed.
A conditional licence may be considered:
if the person has - a past history of febrile convulsions; or
- a past history of epilepsy with seizure free period of 5 years whilst not on any
anticonvulsant medication; or
- had a past single seizure, or cluster of seizures, due to exceptional and nonrepeatable circumstances; or
if the person has epilepsy which is so well controlled as to reduce the risk of a convulsion to that of
any member of the general population, noting the inherent features of the individuals job.

16

Appendix 3: Emergency Department Discharge Pack First Seizure

Appointments
You have experienced what is suspected to be a seizure. To investigate the cause of this seizure the
following appointments have been made for you.
First Seizure Clinic appointment:
Date:
____________________
Location:
Royal Melbourne Hospital,
1st Floor Main Block, Ambulatory Care Centre
Contact Number:
9342 7393
EEG appointment
Date:
Location:
Contact Number:

____________________
Royal Melbourne Hospital,
4th Floor, Ward 4 North, Main Block.
9342 7583

Safety information
As you have had one seizure, there is a risk you may have another, particularly in the next few months. To
avoid injuring yourself, and others, please observe these safety precautions.
Do not drive a motor vehicle or operate dangerous machinery until advised otherwise by a doctor.
Have a shower instead of a bath. Run the cold water first, then the hot. Lower the temperature setting
on your hot water service.
Do not go swimming alone.
Avoid heights (eg. walking on roofs).
Please consider and avoid any other activities that could cause serious harm to yourself or others in the
event of another seizure. Discuss with your doctor if you are uncertain.
Avoid consuming excess alcohol, sleep deprivation and flashing lights. These may trigger seizures in
some people.
In the event of another seizure, an observer should
Clear the area around the person so that they do not injure themselves.
Do not place anything in the persons mouth, or try to restrain them.
If possible, place a pillow or soft item under their head.
When the seizure finishes, place the person into the recovery position, lying them on their side.
Arrange for the patient to return to hospital as soon as possible. If needed call an ambulance on 000,
and say epileptic seizure
If you need further information about seizures or epilepsy
If you wish to talk to a doctor at the Royal Melbourne Hospital, please ring the
Royal Melbourne Hospital Switch:
9342-7000 or
Neurology Department:
9342 7722 and ask to speak to the Neurology or
Epilepsy registrar
Alternatively, you can contact your local General Practitioner (GP).
Also, if you would like to talk to someone about your experience, you can contact the Epilepsy Foundation
of Victoria. The contact details for the Epilepsy Foundation of Victorias are as follows:
http://www.epinet.org.au/, or by calling 1300 852 853

17

Appendix 4: Letter to General Practitioner following a presumed seizure

First Seizure
Dear Dr _____________________________

Your patient, __________________________(patient name), attended the emergency department at the

Royal Melbourne Hospital following a presumed first seizure. Whilst in the emergency department they
received a CT brain scan. This scan revealed
Insert Details

An outpatient EEG appointment has been made for __________________(insert date), and an appointment
has been made for the First Seizure Clinic for __________________(insert date). The doctor at the First
Seizure Clinic will write to you to inform you of the results of these further investigations.

Your patient has been discharged, but due to the risk of further seizures, I have warned him/her of a
number of safety issues. Specifically, the patient should not drive or operate heavy machinery, should
avoid heights, have a shower instead of a bath, and avoid any other situations where a seizure may cause
themselves or others harm.

I have prescribed the following medication

Medication

Indication

Dose

Plan

Royal Melbourne Hospital contact details

If you wish to talk to a doctor at the Royal Melbourne Hospital with regards to this patient, please ring the
Royal Melbourne Hospital Switch:
9342-7000 or
Neurology Department:
9342 7722 and ask to speak to the Neurology or
Epilepsy registrar

(Insert any other comments)

Yours sincerely,

Insert ED doctors name.

18

Appendix 5: Emergency Department Discharge Pack

Established Epilepsy
Safety information
You have experienced what is suspected to be another epileptic seizure. As you will be aware, you have
previously been diagnosed with epilepsy. To avoid injuring yourself, and others, please observe these
safety precautions.

Do not drive a motor vehicle or operate dangerous machinery until advised otherwise by a doctor.
Have a shower instead of a bath. Run the cold water first, then the hot. Lower the temperature setting
on your hot water service.
Do not go swimming alone.
Avoid heights (eg. walking on roofs).
Please consider and avoid any other activities that could cause serious harm to yourself or others in the
event of another seizure. Discuss with your doctor if you are uncertain.
Avoid consuming excess alcohol, sleep deprivation and flashing lights. These may trigger seizures in
some people.

In the event of another seizure, an observer should

Clear the area around the person so that they do not injure themselves.
Do not place anything in the persons mouth, or try to restrain them.
If possible, place a pillow or soft item under their head.
When the seizure finishes, place the person into the recovery position, lying them on their side.
If needed, take the patient to hospital, or call an ambulance on 000, and say epileptic seizure.
If you need further information about seizures or epilepsy
If you wish to talk to a doctor at the Royal Melbourne Hospital, please ring the
Royal Melbourne Hospital Switch:
9342-7000 or
Neurology Department:
9342 7722 and ask to speak to the Neurology or
Epilepsy registrar
Alternatively, you can contact your local General Practitioner (GP).
Also, if you would like to talk to someone about your experience, you can contact the Epilepsy Foundation
of Victoria. The contact details for the Epilepsy Foundation of Victorias are as follows:
http://www.epinet.org.au/, or by calling 1300 852 853

19

Appendix 6: Letter to General Practitioner following a presumed seizure

Established Epilepsy
Dear Dr _____________________________

Your patient, __________________________(patient name), attended the emergency department at the

Royal Melbourne Hospital following a presumed seizure. As you will be aware, this patient has been
diagnosed with epilepsy.
Your patient has been discharged, but due to the risk of further seizures, I have warned him/her of a
number of safety issues. Specifically, the patient should not drive or operate heavy machinery, should
avoid heights, have a shower instead of a bath, and avoid any other situations where a seizure may cause
themselves or others harm.
This patient is on the following medications.
Medication

Indication

Dose

Plan

Follow up arrangements
I have made the following follow up arrangements for this patient.
Referred to General Practitioner or current specialist.
Referred to Royal Melbourne Hospital Epilepsy Clinic.
Royal Melbourne Hospital contact details
If you wish to talk to a doctor at the Royal Melbourne Hospital with regards to this patient, please ring the
Royal Melbourne Hospital Switch:
9342-7000 or
Neurology Department:
9342 7722 and ask to speak to the Neurology or
Epilepsy registrar
Pathology Results:
9342 8000
(Insert any other comments)

Yours sincerely,

Insert ED doctors name.

20

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