Clinical Experience with Sulthiame (Ospolot)

(1) A clinical trial with Sulthiame was undertaken in 45 long-standing epileptic subnormal patients, complicated by behaviour and psychotic disorders, who failed to respond satisfactorily to current anticonvulsants. Five cases without clinical manifestation of seizures, but who presented behaviour problems and E.E.G. abnormalities, were also treated.

(2) The shortest trial period was six months and the longest four years six months, giving an average of three years and four months.

(3) A combination of Sulthiame and other anticonvulsants was used for the 45 epileptics and Sulthiame alone was prescribed for the five behaviour problem cases. The smallest dosage was 200 mg. b.i.d., the highest 200 mg. q.i.d. and the average dosage was 200 mg. t.i.d.

(4) 64 per cent. showed overall clinical improvement.

(5) There was a reduction in frequency of seizures in 71 per cent. and complete relief in 38 per cent.

(6) E.E.G. improvement was shown in 38 per cent. of the cases, 44 per cent. showed no change, and 18 per cent. worsened.

(7) Weight loss occurred in 74 per cent. of the cases. This is directly correlated with the general clinical and E.E.G. improvement.

(8) Side effects were few and minimal.

(9) The birth injured group showed most improvement.

(10) Sulthiame is a valuable drug and worthy of trial when the more usual anticonvulsants have failed.