1. Try Second-Generation Antiepileptics
While atonic and tonic seizures usually occur during childhood, the seizures may continue into adulthood. Treating these episodes can be a frustrating process because they don't respond well to traditional antiepileptics (AEDs) like carbamazepine (Tegretol) and phenytoin (Dilantin). Your doctor may try valproic acid (Depakene) with benzodiazepines as a first-line treatment and experiment with clonazepam (Klonopin) and levetiracetam (Keppra) as second-line combination AEDs, if necessary. Patients often improve significantly from a dose of hydrocortisone, a steroidal drug, but may relapse quickly after the effects end.
If you have Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, a severe form of epilepsy, newer AEDs like felbamate (Felbatol) and topiramate (Topamax) have shown potential to improve atonic and tonic seizures. Since these seizure types are difficult to treat, it's important to keep the lines of communication open with your neurologist. Keep a careful diary of improvements and side effects, and above all, be patient. It may take weeks or even months to regulate your AED medications.
2. Discuss Surgical Treatment With Your Neurologist
When you talk about surgical options with your neurologist, she may suggest a corpus callosotomy if you have not responded to a battery of AEDs. This procedure is one of the most effective treatments for patients with atonic and tonic seizures. During this procedure, the surgeon cuts the fibers connecting the brain hemispheres, which prevents the spreading of seizure activity from one side of the brain to the other. You'll likely still have partial seizures on one side of the brain, but the treatment could significantly reduce the number and severity of your episodes.
3. Protect Your Body
One of the most dangerous things about atonic and tonic seizures is the potential for injury due to falls. The loss of muscle tone or body stiffening you may experience can occur anytime, so it's important to protect your body. Wearing a helmet when venturing into unsafe areas can help protect you, your child or family member from potential head injuries.
